Editor’s Note: You’ll notice the event discussed in this post took place almost a week ago. Sorry for the delay, folks. I spent quite some time drafting and editing this into a manageable blog-bite of information. There is still so much to stay, so stay tuned…
While attending Greenfield High School, I made up my mind that I wanted to go into radio broadcasting. Then I went to freshman orientation at UW-Whitewater and I blindingly declared a public relations major. Honestly, I think seeing the studio intimidated me. Of course, I changed my mind yet again a couple years later, and now I’ve been teaching English at Cudahy High School for six years. But, admittedly, I still dream of gabbing gig.
I hope it doesn’t sound like I’m making light of the profession. “Gabbing gig” just makes for nice alliteration. Remember…I’m an English teacher. I’m sure it’s not easy as it looks – or sounds. And now I can say so for certain.
A few weeks ago Zak Grim, producer/on-air talent for 1250 WSSP, Milwaukee Bucks Squad 6 Coordinator, and host of the “Squad 6 Show” on 1250, asked me if I would be on the “Squad 6 Show.” I tried to play it cool, but I was ecstatic. Of course I would! Are you kidding me?! Luckily, he wasn’t.
Except, it didn’t happen right away. The show got bumped for Brewers coverage three weeks ago. Okay, I thought. Then I got word we weren’t on two weeks ago. And, at the time, I thought of this as a blessing in disguise, since I was closing in on a hectic work week. But the second delay also allowed time for insecurities to creep in, and soon I was working myself up into a frenzy of confusion. I was still very excited to be on the show, but did Zak need me there? Want me there? I was getting nervous.
Both my excitement and my nervousness grew at this past Thursday approached. We were on, and I was, well…I was excited and nervous.
I made it to the studio right on time Thursday night, and Zak and I briefly discussed the format of the night’s show. I tried to play it cool. “Okay,” I responded. “Sure, yeah. That sounds good.” All the while I looked around for a clock that wasn’t there, wondering when we’d be on air.
And then it was time.
Although it’s cliché to say, it really is a blur. But here’s what I recall from the experience…
I was glad Zak helped to establish me as a fan from the get-go. I was a little worried people – if they even recognized my name – would think of me as simply a Bucks employee. And, by now I hope you all know that, first and foremost, I am a fan. And a fanatic, at that.
With my street cred established, I felt comfortable sharing my views. I’m an optimistic fan – always have been, always will be. Despite the rough season, I’m looking forward to next year. And not just because this season’s quickly coming to an end, but because I have faith. You don’t have to believe now, Bucks fans, but trust me. You will.
The last couple paragraphs here reflect how I felt the show went. I went from nervous guest to pure fan. It was fun. Zak was a great host and I had a great time. In a very real way, it was surreal.
I received calls from friends and family after the show and, whether they were sincere, the compliments were all much appreciated as I continued to ride on the high of my first radio “appearance.” Honestly, I’m still riding the high. It’s a sports fanatic’s dream come true. And I got to live it.
