Happy Monday. Let’s get right to it in this week’s Legacy Library Newsletter.
As you read through our content at Legacy Library, you’ll notice that all stories have a very optimistic and positive outlook. That’s intentional, and that’s what we’re about. We’re committed to platforming players.
On an upcoming episode of the “Legacy Library Podcast,” I spoke with Florida-based journalist and “Shula Bowl Podcast” host Jake Gibson, and I asked him about his mindset when covering players or a team, and if there are moments where he’ll look back and think that maybe he went too far.
Absolutely, (the other) Jake said, though a significant part of being a journalist is knowing how to handle pushback. In fact, he tells stories on the podcast (dropping later this week) about FIU’s baseball team taking issue with criticisms they knew he wrote or said.
The question of “how far is too far” is subjective, outside of the obvious. Don’t say something that your mother wouldn’t approve of, and don’t say anything that will get you in serious trouble. Things are literally that simple.
But is there a gray area? Of course there is, though it can be easily addressed. I once had an FAU player message me privately asking why I was tweeting about a bad play in practice. We spoke and made peace before things spiraled. There’s a difference between what I wrote and the columnist complaining just to complain and making things personal.
Both parties need to be adults about it. If the journalist realizes that they went over the line, then apologize and do better. If the player or coach feels that things have been handled, then forgive but don’t forget.
Look, these student-athletes know that at some point, they’ll need to handle criticism from outside voices. And yes, sometimes you’ll run into a jackass just looking for a “gotcha!” quote, or you’ll have to speak with a young, inexperienced, and genuinely unaware reporter. Stand your ground and do what needs doing. Just remember that whatever you write is forever.
The most important thing is to remember that these are people, too. It doesn’t matter how much they’re making in NIL or where they’re committed to play in college. They have emotions and feelings, too. Treat them with respect.
Of all the players I’ve covered and gotten to know over the years, there’s only been one who couldn’t handle even the lightest bit of media criticism but went on to play professional sports.
The odds of you succeeding at the highest level increase if you opt to do the exact opposite of what that player did. Trust me.
Last week was busy at Legacy Library. The start of high school football season meant that we could begin our weekly updates on select players, including Hagerty (Fla.) defensive back Reli Gutierrez and Monroe (N.C.) receiver Chris Robinson.
For the unfamiliar: We will send weekly updates on every player enrolled in the Legacy Library Database. Those who subscribe can follow select athletes and enter their own student-athlete’s information in the portal. We’ll take care of the rest from there.
Some highlights from last week’s high school sports coverage:
- Orchard Farm (Mo.) Two-Way Standout Brendan Hudzik Knows His Time Is Now
- Chanhassen (Minn.) Guard Lucy Hilgert Is Just Getting Started Ahead of Sophomore Season
- Florida Atlantic WR Commit Suhaib Ramseur Is All-In on Zach Kittley’s Air Raid
Thank you again to former FAU quarterback Cordel Littlejohn for joining the Legacy Library Podcast! We spoke about mental health, position changes, Lane Kiffin vs. Willie Taggart, and Cleveland, among other topics.
Have a great week, all.
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