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I'm in Ottawa this week for the NSL Final, and the first stop was Thursday's media day at TD Place: league leadership, both coaches and three players from each side, all crammed into 75 minutes. Here's how it went down:
Table of Contents
11:00 AM – Check-in
Yesterday was a beautiful, crisp, and sunny first day in Ottawa. Coffee in hand, I head over to grab my lanyard and settle into the media room at TD Place. Of course, the first person I run into is Diana Matheson, carrying a stroller containing baby Burt down the stairs with the help of her mom. The co-founder and Chief Growth Officer has been on parental leave since June, but I soon find out that the distance from daily operations has helped her zoom out and see things clearly.
The stadium is already getting prepared, with signage and graphics on the video board. A few Atlético Ottawa coaches are setting up a practice. NSL staff are busy getting everything ready for the big days ahead. I walk by players doing all types of promos for outlets and socials.
When I arrive in the media room, tucked in by the player entrance, it's still fairly early but already buzzing as staff prepare for the press conference. The trophy is prominently displayed on the table. The final touches get attention. Who knew watching people steam a tablecloth would be so therapeutic? I chat with David Parkes from the Northern Tribune, who has already covered over 50 soccer games in Canada this year (check him out).
As the room fills, Kate McKenna takes the mic to give a land acknowledgment and introduce the first speakers.
12:00 PM – The bosses: Christina Litz and Diana Matheson
Chief Growth Officer Matheson and President Litz walked in and both spoke for several minutes, answering a few prepared questions before taking questions from the press. They both appeared relaxed and excited for the days ahead.