Alex Hider
Not many people get to do exactly what they want to do. Luckily, I did.
All I’ve ever wanted to do for a living was write about sports. For a year-and-a-half, I got to do exactly that, and I’ve loved every second of it.
But it’s time for me to take on a new challenge. Today marks my final day with the Portsmouth Daily Times.
I’ve learned so much and accomplished so many goals in my time here. From covering the MLB All-Star Game to a Challenger League baseball game, I’ve learned that every game, every score, every story is just as important in its own way.
I’ve been lucky enough to see some great teams and games in my short time here: Final four teams in football and baseball, three elite eight teams in basketball and more than a few last-second buzzer-beaters and walk-off wins.
Not only that, but I’ve had the opportunity to cover dozens talented of athletes that will surely make an impact at the next level. But whether or not these kids hit it big in the pros is irrelevant — they’ll have a bright future in whatever they choose to do, thanks to their hard work and dedication.
There are far too many people that have gone out of their way to make my life easier in my 18 months in town, far more than there is room to print. So, I’ll leave it at this:
To every athlete that I’ve had the pleasure of working with — thank you. Being a sports writer was always a dream of mine, and I would not have been able to make this dream a reality without you.
To every coach, official and athletic director I’ve crossed paths with — thank you. I know how much you sacrifice to make high school athletics a reality and how little your work is appreciated. Every fan of high school athletics and sports in general owes you a great deal.
To every staff member at the Portsmouth Daily Times — thank you. It has been an inspiration to work with such talented and hard-working individuals. I would challenge anyone to find a news staff that is as committed to their community as you guys. In an era when local news is rapidly changing, it’s passion for your city that produces great journalism, and it’s more than evident in your work.
Finally, to every reader in Scioto County and beyond — thank you. Ultimately, it’s you that keep our industry alive, and you that we serve as journalists. I know that my work here has been far from perfect, but I hope I’ve met your standards and continued the strong brand of journalism being produced at the Portsmouth Daily Times.
To all of my new friends I’ve made in town, please feel free to keep in touch through phone calls, emails or any form of social media. I look forward to catching up.
Reach Alex Hider at 740-353-3101 ext. 1931 or on Twitter @alexhider
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