After two incredible, informative, inspiring, satisfying years at The Chronicle, it’s time for me to say goodbye.
It’s a bittersweet moment for sure, but I’m excited about my next chapter as I’ll be moving to the Washington, D.C. area to continue pursuing my journalism career.
I’m not sure if other journalists struggle with this or not, but I’ve always found it easier to write about other people rather than myself. So, with that in mind, it seems only right that this column be dedicated to the many people who allowed me to thrive in this position.
Firstly, to The Chronicle’s owner and publisher Noel Nash. Noel took a chance on an unproven journalist fresh out of college – a college career spent during COVID, no less. I was much greener than I would’ve liked to be, and yet Noel took a chance anyway.
Or maybe he just really needed a sports writer. Who knows?
Either way, Noel’s guidance and coaching far exceeded any expectations I had, and I wouldn’t be the journalist writing before any of you today without him.
Secondly, to The Chronicle’s executive editor Erin Tierney-Heggenstaller, reporter Amanda Lurey, co-owner Denise Nash, photographer Bob Williams, office manager Dana Ufford, and anyone else who’s been even the smallest part of this newspaper over the last two years.
This team has been so incredible, and I’m deeply honored to have been a part of it. Noel likes to say, “Journalism isn’t dying; bad journalism is dying,” and I believe our team embodies so many of the great things about local journalism.
Thirdly, to the athletic directors, coaches, athletes, parents, family, and friends who took time out of their lives to chat with me, either for a story or just for fun. I’m honored that you trusted me with your stories, and I hope I did your stories justice with my reporting.
Finally, to you, the reader. Our newspaper wouldn’t exist if there wasn’t anyone to read our stories. For anyone who has supported our paper in any way, know that the entire Chronicle team appreciates you.
I should also note that our new sports reporter, McKenzie Days, has already started. Rest assured, The Chronicle will continue its hyper-local High School Sports Zone (HSSZ), and I’m sure McKenzie will continue to build on everything we’ve done in the last two seasons.
From special season preview editions, to feature stories, and state championship coverage, we built the HSSZ from the ground up. I’m very proud of what we, and by we I mean all the aforementioned groups, have accomplished together. It’s been the privilege of a lifetime, so thank you.
Pierre Weil was the sports reporter for The Chronicle.
