John Leahy, Broadcaster

Broadcasters Corner with Dan Parkhurst

2012-01-26T19:32:00.000-08:00

Here is the latest installment of the Broadcasters Corner. This segment was recorded with UNH play by play voice Dan Parkhurst, on January 20 at Lawler Arena in North Andover, prior to the 2-1 UNH win over Merrimack.

http://www.archive.org/details/BroadcastersCornerWithDanParkhurst

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 1-21-12

2012-01-26T19:23:00.001-08:00

Here is the pre-game audio from Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy prior to the Warriors 3-2 OT win at UNH on 1-21-12.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview1-21-12

Pre-game Coaches Interview 1-20-12

2012-01-26T19:18:00.000-08:00

Here is my pre-game chat with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy, in advance of the Warriors 2-1 loss to UNH on 1-20-12.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview1-20-12

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 1-14-12

2012-01-26T19:13:00.000-08:00

Here is my sit-down with Merrimack coach Mark Dennehy just prior to the Warriors 2-2 tie with Maine on 1-14-12.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview1-14-12

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 1-13-12

2012-01-26T19:07:00.001-08:00

Hello friends,

So sorry these posts are so late.... but at any rate here is Coach Mark Dennehy's thoughts prior to Merrimack's 6-2 win over Maine on 1-13.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview1-13-12

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 1-8-12

2012-01-12T19:16:00.001-08:00

Here are Coach Dennehy's thoughts prior to Merrimack's 2-2 tie at BC on 1-8-12. Click the link below to tune in.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview1-8-12

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 1-6-12

2012-01-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

Here is my pre-game chat with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy, prior to the Warriors 4-2 loss at BU on January 6. To listen, click the link below:

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview1-6-12

Mike Machnik Report Card Segment

2012-01-01T09:50:00.000-08:00

Here is an interview I conducted with my broadcast partner and color analyst, Mike Machnik, prior to the second game of the Dartmouth tournament on 12-31. Mike was good enough to give his thoughts with respect to mid-term grades as it relates to Merrimack hockey and Hockey East at the halfway mark. If you love college hockey, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

To hear Mike's report card segment, please visit this link:

http://www.archive.org/details/MikeMachnikReportCardSegment

Mike McMahon Report Card Segment

2012-01-01T09:37:00.000-08:00

This is a must hear interview if you love college hockey, particularly Merrimack college hockey. With the season halfway over, I put the Professor (Mike McMahon) to the test- I asked him to grade Merrimack's performance in seven categories, with a letter grade and explanation for each grade. Our interview was recorded on December 31, prior to game 2 of the Dartmouth tournament.

Mike, of course, is the beat reporter for Merrimack hockey and lead sportswriter for the Lawrence Eagle-Tribune newspaper. To listen to Mike's report card segment, please visit this link:

http://www.archive.org/details/MikeMcmahonReportCardSegment

Report Card Segment is coming!

2011-12-28T15:18:00.000-08:00

Hello friends,

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and/or Hanukkah. Now that the holiday is over it is time to get back to hockey.

Coming up this weekend I will be doing a "report card" feature- Mike McMahon and I will sit down and "grade" the Warriors through the first half of the season- "midterm grades" if you will. We'll look at each area of the team and Mike will give you his expert opinion on where the Warriors rank in each category.

I am also going to attempt to do the feature with my color analyst, Mike Machnik at some point this weekend as well. It will be fun to compare their answers. Both segments will appear here on the blog. You won't want to miss it!

Incidentally, if you'd like to check out the live broadcasts from Dartmouth this weekend, simply go to www.merrimackathletics.com and it is there that you will find the link to our live broadcasts. The live audio stream link can be found at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/merrimack-warriors-college-hockey . We will also be on 1400 AM locally and their feed is at www.megaboston.com (choose 1400 from the pulldown menu at the top).

This is the most exciting time of the year in college hockey- the second half and the stretch run. I hope you can be with us.

Happy New Year everyone!

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 12-17-11

2011-12-28T15:08:00.001-08:00

Here is my pre-game chat with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy, prior to the Warriors 3-1 loss to Union on 12-17. Click the link below to listen:

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview12-17-11

Music and why it is the biggest thing in my life

2011-12-16T20:39:00.000-08:00

Music. Many of us have different feelings and associations about what it is. People love music, they relax to it, they use it to get through the day. For me, music serves so many important functions. It keeps me sane. Not only do I enjoy music for many of the same reasons that other people do, but it is directly proportional to my being happy. Let me explain why.

I am prone to negative thinking. It is a terrible habit and one I am always plagued by. Do you know how you can tell you're thinking negatively? By your mood. It's as simple as that- if you feel lousy, you're thinking to yourself harmfully. Time and time again I have proven this to myself. By the same token, if you feel great, you are thinking great things. Sounds simple doesn't it? Yet fixing the problem is a lot tougher than describing it. Here is the key to it all- the human brain can only focus on ONE THING AT A TIME. This cannot be disproven. And this is where music comes in.

When I sing and play my guitar, I cannot be in a bad mood. I can only focus on one thing at a time, and if I am singing lyrics or strumming those chords, I cannot focus on being in a bad mood. Music also changes your brain waves- it has a calming effect. Nect time you are having trouble sleeping, lay down with a pair of headphones and listen to some calming music. You will be asleep in no time. It works EVERY TIME for me.

I wish I could bring my acoustic with me wherever I go, but that is just not possible. The next best thing is the iPod. I have to allow music to fill my life at every turn. My father gave me my love of music and that is a gift I will never be able to repay.

One of my greatest dreams in life is to be able to gather in a darkened pub with great friends and just play music and laugh until 4 in the morning. That's my nirvana. Music and laughter...... imagine how awesome that would make you feel.

In the meantime, I'll continue to play and sing. When I feel blue and crabby, I'll reach for the one thing that I know will make me feel better-my guitar. Jimmy Buffett said it best when he wrote a song entitled " Tonight I Just Need My Guitar." That's all I need too. And if I'm successful at other things along the way, so be it. But you can bet that the success will be traced back to the singing and playing.

Keep the rafters ringing.

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 12-10-11

2011-12-15T17:39:00.000-08:00

Here is my pre-game conversation with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy prior to the 1-1 tie at Colgate on 12-10-11.

Click here to listen to the interview:

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview12-10-11

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 12-3-11

2011-12-05T18:43:00.001-08:00

I had a chance as I always do to sit down with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy prior to Merrimack's 6-1 loss to Providence. To hear coach's thoughts, click on the link below:

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview12-3-11

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 12-2-11

2011-12-05T18:33:00.001-08:00

My pre-game chat with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy prior to the Warriors 2-1 OT loss at Providence on 12-2-11. To listen to the interview simply click on the link below:

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview12-2-11

Broadcasters Corner With Mike Logan

2011-12-05T18:25:00.001-08:00

Here is my latest Broadcaster's Corner segment with Providence College broadcaster Mike Logan. Mike and I sat down for our chat prior to the Warriors 2-1 OT loss at Schneider Arena on December 2. To listen to out interview, please click on the link below:

http://www.archive.org/details/BroadcastersCornerWithMikeLogan12-2-11

Pre-Game Interview with Curtis Carr 11-23-11

2011-11-26T10:20:00.001-08:00

I had a chance to sit down with Merrimack assistant coach Curtis Carr prior to the Wariors 6-0 win over Alabama-Huntsville on November 23. To listen to the interview please click on the link below:

http://www.archive.org/details/CurtisCarrPre-gameInterview11-23-11

2011-11-22T19:25:00.001-08:00

Here is the latest round of audio- I had a chance to speak with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy prioor to the Warriors 3-2 OT win at BU on 11-11.... here is what the coach had to say. Click below to hear our interview:

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview11-11-11

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 11-4-11

2011-11-10T20:13:00.000-08:00

My pre-game chat with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy prior to the Warriors 1-1 tie with Northeastern. Click the link below to listen:

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview11-4-11

Glenn Stewart Pre-Game Interview 11-5-11

2011-11-10T19:59:00.000-08:00

Here is my chat with Merrimack associate head coach Glenn Stewart prior to the Warriors 3-2 OT win at Northeastern, 11-5-11.

Click on the link below to access our chat:

http://www.archive.org/details/GlennStewartPre-gameInterview11-5-11

Broadcasters Corner with Vermont's Alastair Ingram

2011-10-31T17:52:00.000-07:00

Here is the third edition of the Broadcasters Corner with UVM broadcaster Alastair Ingram.

Click here to listen:

http://www.archive.org/details/BroadcastersCornerWithAlastairIngram

Coach Dennehy Pre-Game Interview, 10-29-11

2011-10-31T17:46:00.000-07:00

Pre-game chat with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy, prior to the Warriors game from Vermont, 10-29-11.

Click here to listen:

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview10-29-11

Coach Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 10-28-11

2011-10-31T17:40:00.000-07:00

Pre-game interview with Merrimack coach Mark Dennehy from Vermont, 10-28-11.

Click here to listen:

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview10-28-11

Mark Dennehy Pre-game Interview 10-22-11 (UConn)

2011-10-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

My pregame chat with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy prior to the Warriors 5-0 win over UConn on October 22.

Click the link below to listen.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameVs.Uconn10-22-11

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 10-21-11

2011-10-24T17:36:00.000-07:00

My pre-game visit with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy, prior to the Warriors 4-1 victory over Northeastern on October 21.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview10-21-11

Nancy Murrapese-Burrell Pre-Game Interview 10-21-11

2011-10-24T17:29:00.000-07:00

A chat with Boston Globe hockey writer Nancy Murrapese-Burrell of the Boston Globe, prior to Merrimack's 4-1 victory over Northeastern on October 21, 2011.

Click below to hear our interview.

http://www.archive.org/details/NancyMurrapese-burrellPre-gameInterview10-21-11

Broadcasters Corner with Rob Rudnick

2011-10-24T17:20:00.000-07:00

Merrimack hosted Northeastern on Friday night, October 21. It was my distinct pleasure to chat with the longtime voice of the Northeastern Huskies, Rob Rudnick, before the game in the latest edition of the Broadcasters Corner. To hear our chat, please click on the link below.

http://www.archive.org/details/BroadcastersCornerWithRobRudnick10-21-11

Audio From October 15

2011-10-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

Merrimack hosted Army last week and Army did not have any broadcasters traveling with the team, so I don't have any broadcasters audio from the game. But, as always, I had a chance to speak with Merrimack coach Mark Dennehy and here are his thoughts prior to the contest.

To access the interview, please visit the link below.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview10-15-11

Enjoy!

Mark Dennehy Pre-Game Interview 10-7-11

2011-10-09T09:25:00.001-07:00

Here is my pre-game chat with Warrior Head Coach Mark Dennehy, prior to our 2-1 victory in Maine on 10-7-11. Click on the link below to access our chat.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview10-7-11

Hope you enjoy the chat!

Broadcasters Corner Edition 1- Dan Hannigan

2011-10-09T09:19:00.001-07:00

Hello friends,

As promised, here is the first installment of my Broadcasters Corner segment for 2011-12. Each week, prior to the week's game (s), I will sit down and chat with a broadcaster from the opposing team and discuss hockey. This past Friday night, October 7, I was in Orono, Maine, where I had a chance to visit with Dan Hannigan, the outstanding play by play voice of the Maine Black Bears men's hockey team. To listen to our chat, simply click on the link below.

http://www.archive.org/details/BroadcastersCornerWithDanHannigan

Hope you enjoy the chat!

Whetting your hockey appetite

2011-08-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

I hope you are enjoying your summer.

Although baseball season is in full swing, college hockey was on my mind yesterday (August 1) as I ventured up to Merrimack College to check in with Brad Davis, our SID, and Dean O'Keefe, our assistant AD and director of marketing. I had a chance to sit down as well with my color analyst on Merrimack hockey broadcasts, and we had a chance to discuss Merrimack hockey and college hockey in general. I'm not rushing the end of summer by any means (still a month of baseball left), but I feel a genuine sense of excitement as we head closer to the start of a new Merrimack hockey season.

I hope this interview whets your appetite for the hockey season. I will be beginning a new feature on this blog during the upcoming season... a broadcaster's corner, where I talk with the broadcasters of the other teams covering Hockey East prior to each Merrimack game, so stay tuned for that!

To access my interview with Mike, simply click this link:

http://www.archive.org/details/MikeMachnikPre-seasonInterviewMerrimackHockey2011-12

Thanks and enjoy the rest of your summer.

My second book is now on the market!

2011-06-18T07:05:00.001-07:00

Hello all!

My second book, CALLING THE SHOTS, is now on sale and available for purchase! Please visit my website, www.johnrleahy.com for details on how to purchase a copy!

And now something really important to talk about

2011-05-29T07:01:00.000-07:00

On this Memorial Day weekend, I'd like to give thanks and praise to all the American heroes who have given their life to secure the freedoms we all enjoy. It is a debt that we will never be able to repay. My particular thoughts this weekend gravitate down to Cary, North Carolina, where my Uncle Mick, a former lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps, and who passed away last October, lived.

Uncle Mick was the prominent military figure in my life... he was the embodiment of the Marines, through and through. Those who never served (like myself) will never truly understand and appreciate the enormous sacrifices that he and other military personnel gave.

Thanks to all our military today and every day!

Closing Sequence Part 2

2011-05-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

Here is the second part of the closing sequence against Maine to take us to the Garden.

http://www.archive.org/details/ClosingSequencePart2

On our way to the Garden

2011-05-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

Here is the closing moments of our victory for Merrimack over Maine. It represented MC's first trip to Causeway Street since 1998, and my first trip there ever as a broadcaster.

http://www.archive.org/details/ClosingSequenceMaine3-12-11

Coach Dennehy Pre-Game Interview- Notre Dame

2011-05-28T21:13:00.000-07:00

Here is the pre-game interview I had with Merrimack head coach Mark Dennehy prior to our 4-3 loss to Notre Dame in the NCAA playoffs on 3-25-11.

http://www.archive.org/details/MarkDennehyPre-gameInterview3-25-11

Highlights from the season past

2011-05-28T21:00:00.000-07:00

I am experimenting with adding audio clips to the blog, so I thought I would start with a clip of Merrimack's Carter Madsen scoring a goal against Maine in the 2010-11 playoffs. Hope you enjoy it!

http://www.archive.org/details/CarterMadsenGoalVs.Maine3-12-11

It sure has been a while

2011-05-28T17:59:00.000-07:00

Hi friends,

I read today that the worst thing you can do with a blog is let it go stagnant. Unfortunately that is exactly what I have been doing. So just a few thoughts to get caught up.

After a long winter of not having any employment prospects lined up, I managed to get a few things going for myself this summer. I agreed to be the PA voice of the Worcester Tornadoes of the Can-Am League. This will be new for me- I have never done PA on a consistent basis of course- but I'm willing to give it a try. It will be a one year deal for me. I plan on being back full time behind a play by play microphone in 2012.

To that end, my good friend Ken Cail, who did the play by play for the Nashua Pride when I was with the Spirit, offered me a chance to do 31 games of play by play for the Lowell Spinners this summer. I can't tell you how thrilled I am to help Ken out. I've always dreamed of the chance to do affilated baseball, and this opportunity will give me that chance. The schedule of games I'll be doing is posted on my homepage, which is www.johnrleahy.com. I am eager to make new friends and possibly reconnect with some old ones.

I also have my second book coming soon- Calling the Shots, a small autobiography and a look back at some of the places I've worked in the business. I was dismayed the book will only be 104 pages in total with some very small chapters- you can never tell how long a book will be when you are writing the manuscript- but I will release more editions once my career advances.

By the way, I need to give a shoutout to my dear friend from Hockey East, Brock Hines, the award winning color analyst for UMass hockey. He gave me the idea for the title. Brock, I promise you will get one of the first copies. It will take you about an hour or two to read it!

Anyway, that's it for now. I will get this blog humming hopefully on a daily basis. Thanks to one and all!

BC DEFEATS BU IN OT, 3-2

2011-02-07T19:58:00.000-08:00

After getting a power play in OT, Boston College converts at 3:17 on the power play to defeat Boston University 3-2 in the second semi-final game at the TD Garden. Tommy Cross scores the game winning goal to cement the win for the Eagles, assisted by Brian Dumoulin and Jimmy Hayes. BC will now face Northeastern at 8:00 next Monday for the Beanpot championship. BU and Harvard will meet in the consolation game at 5:00.

Good night from the TD Garden.

BC on the PP in OT

2011-02-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

BC on the power play in OT, as BU defenseman Ryan Ruikka picks up a cross checking penalty.

BU-BC HEADING TO OT AT THE GARDEN

2011-02-07T19:38:00.001-08:00

A tremendous third period, in which BC tied the game on a Jimmy Hayes goal, ends regulation tied at 2-2. Shots on goal after three periods have BC leading 35-34. The winner of this game will play Northeastern in the Beanpot finals next Monday night.

BC TIES BU IN THE THIRD

2011-02-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

BC has tied BU in the third period 2-2 on a goal by Jimmy Hayes, assisted by Philip Samuelsson and Pat Mullane at 4:56 of the third period. BU going on the power play.

BU LEADS BC 2-1 THROUGH 2 AT THE GARDEN

2011-02-07T18:44:00.000-08:00

BU holds a 2-1 lead over BC at the Garden through two.... Megan and Trivino for the Terriers, and Samuelsson for the Eagles. BC is outshooting BU 27-19 through 40 minutes.

BU JUMPS AHEAD 2-1 IN THE SECOND

2011-02-07T18:13:00.000-08:00

Alex Trivino, a New York Islander draft choice, scores at 2:17 of the second period, assisted by Ryan Ruikka and Ross Gaudet to give the Terriers a 2-1 lead.

BC-BU SUMMARY THROUGH 1

2011-02-07T18:11:00.000-08:00

1, BC, Samuelsson 4 (Arnold, Wey) 14:37.
2, BU, Megan (Noonan, Clendening) 15:15.

BC with a 13-11 edge in shots , both teams 0/1 on the power play.

BC AND BU TIED 1-1 AFTER 1 AT THE GARDEN

2011-02-07T17:51:00.000-08:00

BC and BU played an action packed first period at the TD Garden in the second semifinal game of the Beanpot. The teams are tied 1-1 after one period. BC with a 13-11 shot advantage through one period.

BC-BU TIED AT 1-1 IN THE FIRST, 3:41 LEFT

2011-02-07T17:41:00.000-08:00

Boston College, who has already beaten Boston University three consecutive times this season, take a 1-0 lead at 14:37 of the first period on a goal by Philip Samuelsson goal, his fourth, from Patrick Wey and Bill Arnold. BU would quickly answer with the tying goal just 38 seconds later from Wade Megan, his sixth, from Garrett Noonan and Adam Clendening AT 15:15. BU with a 10-9 edge in shots with 3:00 left in the first period.

BC AND BU SCORELESS

2011-02-07T17:39:00.000-08:00

6:10 remaining in the first period. John Muse (BC) and Kieran Millan (BU) get the start in net. Shots are 9-8 BU.

NU DEFEATS HARVARD, 4-0

2011-02-07T17:09:00.000-08:00

Northeastern defeats Harvard 4-0 in Game one of the Beanpot. Harvard outshoots NU 13-7 in the third period, and 41-31 for the game. Chris Rawlings posts the shutout with 41 saves for the Huskies, who improves to 9-11-6 on the season. Harvard drops to 4-18-0 on the season.

BU-BC up next.

THIRD PERIOD UNDERWAY

2011-02-07T15:54:00.001-08:00

Third period of Harvard/NU underway from the Garden.

Harvard makes a change in goal..... Kyle Richter replaces Ryan Carroll in goal for the Crimson. Let's see if this sparks Harvard.

NU is 5-2-0 on the season when leading after two periods.

NU 4 HARVARD 0 AFTER 2

2011-02-07T15:39:00.000-08:00

NU outshoots Harvard 14-11 in the second period, Harvard holds a 28-24 edge for the game.

First period recap:
NU- McLaughlin 8 (Quailer, Ellement) 10:48.

Second period recap:

NU- McLaughlin 9 (Dongara) 1:47. 2-0 NU
NU- Silva 6 (MacLeoud, McNeely) 10:53. 3-0 NU
NU- Reid 5 ( MacLeoud, Bitetto) 16:19. PPG 4-0 NU

PP- Harvard 0-3, Northeastern 1-3.

NU POWER PLAY GOAL

2011-02-07T15:28:00.000-08:00

Northeastern's power play clicks on a 5-0n 3. Brodie Reid, the Huskies outstanding rookie, was set up along the midpoint of the near circle in the Harvard zone, and he one-timed a snipe past Ryan Carroll to stake the Huskies to a 4-0 lead. Harvard took some undisciplined penalties and NU made them pay. Reid is just one of the outstanding rookies on this Northeastern team. Wade MacLeoud and Anthony Bitetto draw the assists.

BTW, NESN has Red Sox PBP voice Don Orsillo covering the Beanpot alongside Bruins TV analyst Andy Brickley.

NU TAKING CONTROL

2011-02-07T15:19:00.000-08:00

Northeastern has opened things up here in the second period. Mike McLaughlin potted his second goal of the game at 1:47 on a shot that Ryan Carroll made the initial save on, but the puck bounced in the air and behind him for a 2-0 NU lead. The Huskies would increase the advantage to 3-0 on a Steve Silva goal, his sixth, from Wade MacLeoud and Tyler McNeely. With 6:50 to go here in the second period, NU is up 3-0 with Harvard holding a 22-20 shot advantage.

NU UP 1-0 AFTER 1

2011-02-07T14:44:00.000-08:00

Shots 17-10 Harvard after one. Back in a bit.

HARVARD UP 13-7 IN SHOTS

2011-02-07T14:42:00.000-08:00

Great goaltending by NU's Chris Rawlings, he is a legitimate goaltender, now with 16 saves, updating. Still 1-0 NU last minute of play in the period.

WELCOME FROM THE 2010 BEANPOT

2011-02-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

Hello friends, time to get this blog back up and cooking.

Welcome inside the 9th floor of the Garden where I'll keep you up to date on this year's Beanpot.

Game 1 features Harvard and Northeastern at 5:00 followed by BU-BC at 8:00 PM.

Starting goaltenders are senior Ryan Carroll for Harvard and sophomore Chris Rawlings.

Teams are feeling each other out early, there were very few scoring opportunities in the first 9 minutes.

Game 1 features Harvard and Northeastern. Northeastern has just jumped out to a 1-0 lead at 10:48 on a goal by Mike McLaughlin, an even strength goal., assisted by Steve Qualier and Drew Ellement.

Merry Christmas to all

2010-12-23T05:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T17:42:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving one and all!

I hope you all enjoyed your day of food, family, and football (not necessarily in that order) .... Thanksgiving is always a special day, as I love to take the time to really reflect back on the things that are most important to me.... the love of my great family, and the fact that I am truly blessed to do work that I love.

Today I attempted to launch a new aspect of my website... the streaming of sports events over my website, www.johnrleahy.com. It is an exciting venture that, once I get it going, will be over the top. The sky will be the limit.

As with any new technology, there is a learning curve involved. Today I took a few lumps, but learning definitely did occur. In spite of my best efforts, I was unable to get the broadcast on for the first half. I attribute that to my newness with the technology and to a lesser extent maybe some connection issues. But I was able to get the thing going and stream the second half of the game (oh, by the way, Stoughton won, 26-6).

The technology I am using is called UStream. It is a broadcast platform where you can broadcast anything. Here is the catch- the device I use will depend on where I am and what the Internet connection is. If I am in a place where wireless is available, I will bring my laptop and do an audio broadcast. Here's the GREAT thing about that- I will be able to post on Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, etc., and chat with you during the event. That is an invaluable tool in my opinion. Unfortunately, many high school locations do not have wireless capability. In that event, I will do the game straight from my phone (as I did today). As far as I can tell, doing it this way requires me to video the event while providing commentary, and my chat options are much more limited. But as I said the sky is the limit. I have used this technology previously in my baseball time in Kalamazoo, and I love it. Oh, and I can instantly see how many viewers I have!

I just want to ask for your patience as I continue to work out the kinks. Once I learn everything I need to know, watch out. These streams will get better and better. For those who tuned in and could not view the broadcast, I'm sorry. Thanks for trying. And for those who stuck with it and eventually saw the broadcast today, thanks to you as well.

I found out also that during the game, whenever I received a text message or AIM, the broadcast would kick off the air and I would have to relaunch it. Ah, yes, part of the learning curve again.

As for the other stuff in my life, Merrimack hockey is going great. The team is 4-2-4 and became a ranked team in the national polls for the FIRST TIME in school history. Yes, that is a big deal. I love every second of this job. Let me go back to the Thanksgiving concept again- I truly feel blessed to be broadcasting hockey, It is a lifetime dream. Somebody pinch me.

As for the baseball stuff, I am still very much in limbo. I have heard nothing from the Freedom, and every day that goes by lessens the chances I will be back there. This whole situation deeply saddens me, especially now that my good friend and former colleague Fran Riordan is heading in to manage the team in 2011. How wonderful would it be to be reunited with Fran again..... but all indications are that the team is looking elsewhere for a broadcaster.

I'm also working on my next book, my auto biography. The manuscript is due out in February.

Whew! Have I told you enough?

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Enjoy " Black Friday" tomorrow. How many of you are hitting the stores at 3 AM?

I'll catch you all soon!

Recap of the summer of 2010

2010-09-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

Hello everybody, I know it has been a while, but now that baseball season is over I have a little bit of time before my winter assignment kicks in and I thought I would blog a bit. Just a few thoughts about my summer in Florence, KY.

The Florence Freedom finished up the season with a final record of 38-58. We finished in fifth place in the Frontier League's Western Division, ahead of the Evansville Otters. Everyone connected with the organization was disappointed with our record, because we all knew that the team we put on the field was better than the record indicated. For sure, it was not because of a lack of effort, it was just "one of those seasons." I don't like to make excuses, but injuries played a key role in the struggles we had. Losing our best starter, Everett Saul, certainly did not help. We also lost Michael Campbell, the heart and soul of our team, to a broken forearm. Pitching and defense wins championships, and in spite of our best efforts and how hard we battled night in and night out, we just didn't get the results we were looking for.

I personally enjoyed the season. If I am broadcasting baseball, then by default I am enjoying my life and my work. We could have been 0-96 and I still would have loved coming to the park every day. The Freedom had a great group of guys, and I really enjoyed being with them on a daily basis.

I also want to take a moment to thank the entire front office staff for welcoming me in for the 2010 season. What a great group of people! Toby Rumfield , our manager, who always treated me well; Coaches Pedro Flores and Pete Rose Jr., who made it truly fun for me; Kari Rumfield, our award winning GM (she won Executive of the Year in 2009), Josh Anderson, who taught me a few things and definitely played a key role in my growth as a broadcaster, Alyssa Meyer , our outstanding director of on-field entertainment; Stadium Steve Mace, ticket manager Dana White, Elizabeth Quatman, one of our outstanding account execs and all around great gal; Deidra Brown, our superb concessions manager; Matt Resar, our jack of all trades who helped me out on so may occasions; Kevin Schwab, our Hall of Fame PA announcer, Emily Christman, our wonderful music lady; and all the interns who made the summer special, including my right hand man Nick Dobreff, who worked exhaustingly all summer long, and Megan Smith, who was a tag team partner as well.

And of course thanks go to Clint and Kim Brown for their friendship and support in 2010. I really owe them a lot, as they gave me a chance to once again fulfill my life's dream and do the work I was born to do.

Now that my time is a bit more freer (not by much, as hockey preparations are underway), I will make an effort to be on more. More baseball musings coming soon. Thanks for checking in.

Book update

2010-07-16T11:41:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Thanks to all who took the time to order my new book, Living A King's Life! There are plenty of copies available, so please do feel free to pick up a copy if you haven't done so already! The book will also be coming out in paperback as well, so I am truly excited about that.

To check out the book and/or order a copy, I invite you to check out this link:

http://www.publishamerica.net/product92257.html.

Thank you!

Living A King's Life is on sale NOW!

2010-06-04T22:39:00.000-07:00

I am proud to announce that my brand new book, Living A King's Life, is on sale NOW through Publish America! It was a lot of hard work, but it is so worth it!

If you'd like to read about the book or would consider buying a copy, simply visit the following link:

http://www.publishamerica.net/product92257.html .

Thanks to all my family and friends for your support!

Living A King's Life is coming.... soon!

2010-05-31T20:11:00.000-07:00

Well, more news about the book. At the end of last week, I received two separate E-mails containing my cover design for the book as well as the text proofs. They asked me to go through the manuscript one last time and make final edits before the book goes to print. I was up until 2 AM last night going over the manuscript, page by page and word by word. There were about twenty errors that I fixed. This information needed to get to the publisher by 5 PM on June 1. Sure, I could have done it today on my day off, but I am so anxious to get this book out, so I expedited the process.

After these final edits are made, the book will head off to the printer. I will keep you all posted on details as I get them.

As for the current baseball season, the Freedom are 3-6. We won ugly last night 8-7 on a walkoff wild pitch. It is not often that you win when making five errors, but I give credit to the Freedom for hanging in there. Next up is a doubleheader against Oakland County on Wednesday.

Living A King's Life update

2010-05-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

Well, I heard from my publishers last week and happily all of my attachments, pictures, and my manuscript were accepted for the book and now it is in the text production stage. A formatter will begin work on my book, at which point it will then be sent to the art department, where the cover design will be done. I am so impatient..... I know it will take time, even up to six to eight months, but I am also being told it could be shorter. It can't come soon enough.

Back on the subject of baseball, things are hectic here in Florence. The Freedom played their final exhibition game today, losing to the Evansville Otters 7-0. Now we are at the stage where we need to cut down our roster to the league mandated 24 players. We go to battle in the season opener this Friday night, in Sauget, Illinois, against the Gateway Grizzlies. It's go time.

Talk to you all soon!

Hockey commentator on the All-Massachusetts Hockey Team

2010-04-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

Barry Melrose- who else?

Movie about said baseball team

2010-04-29T18:55:00.001-07:00

How about a movie about this fictional team? It could star Karl Malden and Kirk Douglas. How about Charles Emerson Winchester from M*A*S*H?

Addition to the line-up

2010-04-29T18:53:00.000-07:00

Carl Everett coming off the bench as a fourth outfielder!

The All Massachusetts Baseball Line-up

2010-04-29T18:35:00.000-07:00

I have been working on this for a while. Here it is, a baseball lineup featuring last names of players all made up of Massachusetts towns and cities:

STARTING PITCHERS

1- Eric Milton
2- Ryan Franklin
3- Tim Wakefield
4- Tim Hudson
5- Jim Palmer

CATCHER
Bob Montgomery (Alan Ashby in reserve)

FIRST BASE
Jim Spencer

SECOND BASE
Willie Randolph

THIRD BASE
Mike Lowell

SHORTSTOP
Garry Templeton

CENTER FIELD
Fred Lynn

LEFT FIELD
Daryl Boston

RIGHT FIELD
Amos Otis

DESIGNATED HITTER
Josh Hamilton

BULLPEN
Al Holland
Bob Shirley (Yes, I am serious, and don't call me Shirley)
Wes Gardner

BROADCASTER
John Sterling

And how about the fine sport of hockey? You could have a front line of Bob Bourne with Brett Hull and Keith Acton with Mike Mil(l)bury on defense!

Batman villains

2010-04-28T06:39:00.000-07:00

As a child of the 60's (born in that decade) one of my favorite shows growing up was Batman, the old TV series with Adam West and Burt Ward. I would be on the edge of my seat during each episode as it came to it's cliffhanging conclusion. The most intriguing part of each show was, in my opinion, the guest villains of each episode. Some huge Hollywood names passed through that show. Here are my top ten favorites.

1) THE PENGUIN (Burgess Meredith)

2) THE JOKER (Cesar Romero)

3) THE RIDDLER (Frank Gorshin and John Astin)

4) EGGHEAD (Vincent Price)

5) MR. FREEZE (Otto Preminger)

6) KING TUT ( Victor Buono)

7) LOUIE THE LILAC (Milton Berle)

8) THE MAD HATTER ( David Wayne)

9) THE SIREN (Joan Collins)

10) CATWOMAN (Eartha Kitt and Julie Newmar)

Who are your favorites?

Book contract signed!

2010-04-23T14:55:00.000-07:00

This past week I signed a deal with PublishAmerica for my new book, " Living A King's Life." It is an incredibly exciting time. With the formalities now done, production on the book is set to begin. The pre-production team is sending me out an author questionnaire as the first step in the process. We are working in tandem, step by step, and I am learning as I go.

As far as a timetable, it could take as little as four months and up to a year to see the book in print and in bookstores. Of course, I will keep everyone in the loop as I hear anything!

Book update

2010-04-16T07:07:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

If you haven't heard, I learned this week that my book manuscript has been accepted for publication by the publishing company PublishAmerica. It is an exciting time for sure. I am close to signing a contract for the book to go into publication. I don't have a timetable for seeing the book going into print, and this is a "learn as you go process."

I chose the title " Living a King's Life." A play on words, but an accurate one.... I really feel like a king when I do my work, and of course, I worked for the Kalamazoo Kings in 2009.

I'll have further updates as they occur.

Class of 83 get together update

2010-03-21T14:49:00.000-07:00

Hello fellow SHS classmates!

It has been so great talking to a great deal of you over on Facebook. I can't tell you how much I love reconnecting with the group of friends I care most about in this world, my high school classmates.

As you all know, on April 17 at the Stoneforge in Foxboro, we have a night planned where we will get together and share some memories over cocktails, and good food. I leave for Kentucky the following weekend for the summer, and I felt it was important to get together to see as many of you as possible before the long, hot grind of baseball season begins.

For those who have not seen Stoneforge, it is a great place. Located on Route 1 North in Foxboro (about a mile from Gillette Stadium) it has a huge bar, excellent food, TV's, and tables, for which I am hoping we can commandeer a corner table and sing a few tunes. I talked to Russ Goldstein and he is receptive to bringing his acoustic guitar , and between him and me, we could create some enjoyable stuff you can sing along to. I have always dreamed of having a pub session, and this is as good an opportunity as I believe there is.

Please come join us. If you graduated in our class, you're invited. If you know of classmates that are not on Facebook, but you are in contact with them, please let them know they are invited too.

I'll be there no later than 6. Last call is 12:30 AM. Let's make this a night we won't soon forget.

Thanks!

John

Fan Behavior

2010-03-21T14:11:00.000-07:00

First of all, let me congratulate the Boston College Eagles on winning the Hockey East Championship at the TD Garden last night. It may have been the greatest championship game ever since the formation of Hockey East back in 1984-85. I love Jerry York and am thrilled for him and the Eagles as they move on to the NCAA playoffs next weekend. It was electric to be part of it.

Not everything was perfect about last night's experience though. I am not referring to the play on the ice, which was less than perfect in and of itself- but rather to the way that the BC fans conducted themselves in their "heckling" of Maine goaltender Dave Wilson specifically, and their chants of "Black Bears suck."

BC won the game 7-6 in overtime. Each time the Eagles scored, we were subjected to chants of " Wilson, Wilson, you suck.... in life..... in goaltending, it's all your fault, it's all your fault." Call me old fashioned, or a "prude", but I don't think that's right.

Look, I am all for expressing your love for your team. Be vocal, be loud, be enthusiastic, but be positive. BC fans did nothing but give themselves and their school a black eye in my view. Every college hockey fan base uses the word "sieve" when the opposing goaltender gives up a goal. I understand that, and it is relatively inoffensive in comparison. But please, people, clean it up. Last night went over the line. It wasn't about fun. It was about childishness.

You see it all the time with BC and BU fans going back and forth. BU fans will shout, "Jesus hates you" while BC fans come back with "BU football" making reference to the Terriers losing their football program. It has gone unchecked for a long time and once fans know they can get away with it, the problem just escalates. There is no consequence.

I am sure there were some Maine fans that engaged in some of that too, but if there was it was fewer and farther between compared to the BC fans last night.

Fans are warned prior to the game that unprofessional behavior will not be tolerated and that violators can be ejected from the arena. It doesn't happen enough. Maybe building security is afraid that if they eject someone for chanting and heckling in the manner described above, they will be sued for First Amendment violations. It needs to be enforced more. Buying a ticket to an athletic event is a privilege and carries with it certain responsibilities. If you can't enjoy the game in a fun and respectful way, don't go to the game.

Now, I want to make it clear that I am all for having fun at athletic events. I am not a killjoy. There are those that will argue that if you call a student on the carpet for heckling in an unprofessional manner, you are taking away their fun and their fun of the experience. I disagree. You can go to a game, have fun, be loud and enthsiastic, while being positive at the same time.

What I am saying here will not change anything. These chants will continue. Fans will continue to disrespect their opponents in the name of " having fun" and calling it "part of the college experience". But that doesn't mean I have to like it, or that I think it's right.

And I will give credit where it's due- the BC fans did warmly acknowledge the Maine players who were selected for the all tournament team. That was nice to see.

BC fans, if you go to Worcester, have fun. Root the Eagles on. But please keep it positive.

Stoughton High School 83 gathering

2010-03-08T14:01:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I wanted to touch base with all of you, dear classmates, to let you know that I have decided on a place and time for us to get together for those that are available and can make it. As you know from my previous posting on Facebook, I have chosen Saturday night, April 17 as the magic date (perfect..... the weekend after tax day- we will all need a drink then, right? ) . The place? I have decided on the Stoneforge on Route 1 North in Foxboro (about a mile north of Gillette Stadium). It has a huge bar and several tables. Good food and 36 beers on tap (and non-alcoholic choices as well for those who prefer not to drink). There are also hotels in the surrounding area for those that would need overnight accommodations.

I will bring the guitar, and if I get to use it at a corner table, great, if not, we'll make do. Don't see why it would be a problem though. There are also plenty of TV's to watch the Red Sox.

This is the week before I leave for Kentucky for the long, hot summer. I can think of no better way to leave town than to see your smiling faces again. Please join me. It will be a fun time.

I will get there by 6:00. Last call will be at 12:30 AM. Hope to see you all there.

John

PLAYOFFS!

2010-03-07T08:09:00.000-08:00

I am so thrilled to report that Merrimack hockey is back in the Hockey East playoffs for the first time since 2003-04. All of the hard work, sweat, and sacrifice has paid off for the Warriors and as a result, Merrimack will skate against Boston University in the first round of the playoffs which begins on Friday evening at Agganis Arena in Boston. I am thrilled for Coach Dennehy, his coaching staff, and all the players, particularly the seniors.

Merrimack has never won in this building, but I don't think that that matters now. It all comes down to execution and Merrimack has been one of the hottest teams in Hockey East coming down the stretch. BU will in all likelihood be the favorite to win, but if you talk to Coach Jack Parker of the Terriers, he speaks in glowing terms about how good Merrimack is and how he is not looking forward to seeing the blue and gold in this series.

These teams played three times in the regular season. On November 13 at Merrimack, the Warriors won 6-3, snapping a long losing streak against the Terriers. The next night, BU scored four in the first and went on to win 6-4. The teams then played on January 16 at BU with the Terriers winning again, 6-4. If the regular season is any indication, these playoffs should be fun to watch.

Incidentally, this will be my first playoff series since joining Hockey East five years ago, and I couldn't be more excited.

There will be some other great series too. Vermont plays at New Hampshire, Massachusetts goes to Boston College, and UMass Lowell will head to Maine. I think Massachusetts could upset BC, although not likely. Both teams are playing great hockey (UMass just swept Maine in Orono this weekend) and BC is hitting their stride too (they nearly swept UNH if not for a bad third period on Friday night). Maine is struggling right now and could have it's hands full with Lowell, that will be interesting. Vermont always plays UNH tough too. Don't be surprised if that series goes the distance. In fact, don't be surprised if all three go the distance.

Northeastern and Providence missed the playoffs this season. It is a shame that someone had to miss out, but the way this season went, with a great race to the end, someone was bound to be disappointed. It's hard to imagine a postseason without the Northeastern Huskies in it. And my hats go off to Providence, who battled hard on Saturday night and fought tooth and nail all the way. I hope the Friars get back in the show next season. I love the folks there.

Thanks for your time everyone. It's time for playoff hockey. Go Merrimack! I'll have more from BU next week!

Book Update

2010-03-02T20:59:00.000-08:00

As some of you may know, I am in the process of writing my first book. It is a diary of the 2009 Kalamazoo Kings season as seen through my eyes in the broadcast booth. It is an exciting prospect but very time consuming. I thought I would just give a brief update on where that stands.

I am still working on the manuscript. Hockey season has taken up large amounts of time, but after the season ends (and before I leave for Kentucky) I plan on getting it done and ready for submission to a publisher. Since this is my first book, I am really flying by the seat of my pants here. Can anyone lend any advice to an aspiring author?

I'll post updates here on the blog as well as on my homepage, which is at www.johnrleahy.com.

Thanks everyone!

An open letter to my Kalamazoo friends and the Kalamazoo Kings

2010-02-22T20:59:00.000-08:00

Hello to all my friends in Western Michigan.

I am sure you all know by now that I am no longer the voice of your Kalamazoo Kings. It was a very sad day to decide to leave. I will miss Kalamazoo and the Kings more than you will ever know. Two offseasons ago, after the North Shore Spirit closed their doors for good, I needed a team to step up. The Kings did just that, and I will always be grateful to Joe Rosenhagen and Fran Riordan for bringing me in. It was a very special two years.

My decision to leave had nothing to do with the team, the fans, or my co-workers. All of you were great. I had heard rumors that the Kings were possibly going to scrap radio coverage for next year, and I inquired about it. The uncertainty of the radio situation forced me to look elsewhere. Consequently, I landed in Florence for 2010.

I don't know why the Kings wanted to change their radio approach from last year. It was a good model. We reached out to more fans last year than ever before with our video and audio broadcasts. It seemed like the way to go for this year too.

Anyway, I wanted to thank all of you for your friendship and your support over the last two years. I will miss you all. Kalamazoo will always hold a special place in my heart. I am looking forward to coming back to town in mid- August with the Freedom.

Keep in touch K'zoo!

With warmest regards,

John Leahy

Merrimack Hockey is Back On the Map

2010-02-22T20:33:00.000-08:00

How exciting it is to be a part of the Merrimack hockey culture right now. We are witnessing some exciting hockey in North Andover, MA. Five years ago, when I took over as the voice of Merrimack hockey, the Warriors were a team in disarray. Mark Dennehy came in and has rebuilt this program into a contender. I think the most important thing Coach Dennehy has done is not only re-shape the culture of Merrimack hockey, but also he has created a new image for this hockey team. When you are a visiting team coming to Merrimack, you know you're in for a long hard battle. Merrimack has the best home record in the country, and that is no accident. No longer is Merrimack viewed as a pushover. They have earned respect around the league.

This team expects to win. Just competing is not enough anymore. Confidence and resiliency are the new watchwords around North Andover. Making the playoffs is the next logical step for this team, but just making it will not be satisfying enough. Merrimack, if they get there, will expect to win, whomever they play.

And I bring that same confidence to the booth. When I arrive at the arena I expect to have a good broadcast. I have crossed every t and dotted every i. The more prepared I am, the better my broadcast will be for my audience. They deserve the best, and I will always give my best.

There will be a stiff test tomorrow night at Boston College. I don't know what the outcome will be, but I can tell you this.... Merrimack will come to play for the full 60 minutes. After all, it's the new norm for Merrimack College hockey.

Hi everybody and welcome

2010-02-16T06:35:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone and welcome to my brand new blog. I have had the good fortune of reading other blogs created by my colleagues and have enjoyed reading what they have to say, so I figured I'd give it a shot and enter the blogosphere.

If we haven't met before, I broadcast sports for a living, and feel truly blessed to do it. After working for the Kalamazoo Kings baseball club for two years , and the North Shore Spirit prior to that for three, I will be settling in Florence, Kentucky this summer to become the new voice of the Florence Freedom in the Frontier League. I also broadcast college hockey in the winter months, doing college hockey in my native Massachusetts, broadcasting for Division 1 Merrimack College out of North Andover, MA, in Hockey East.

But this will not strictly be a broadcasting blog. It will cover everything. Everything from music to current events to bragging about how I feel like I have the best friends and family on the planet.

I'll look forward to hearing from you. Bring your blogging game. It's on!