Devils: One Year of New Jersey Hockey Now, Thank You!

One year ago today, I launched New Jersey Hockey Now to bring New Jersey Devils fans another form of daily coverage for their favorite NHL team.

Man, how time flies.

It’s been a dream of mine to become a beat reporter in the NHL since high school and to see that dream actualized doesn’t feel real sometimes.

One year ago, Andrew Brunette left the Devils for the Nashville Predators. NJHN was supposed to launch on June 1st, however, we couldn’t let major news like that slip away. And the rest is history.

It’s been an incredible experience to have interactions with players, team staff, fellow media members, and fans alike.

First, it’s an absolute privilege to do what I do for a living. Talking to players in the locker room daily and having face time with superstars such as Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and Co. is a surreal experience.

Last spring, I was able to check off covering the Stanley Cup Playoffs on my bucket list. This season, although it was a disappointing one for the Devils, I was able to check off an outdoor game experience at the 2024 NHL Stadium Series covering the Devils-Philadelphia Flyers tilt.

Not only did I get to cover the game, but during the whole weekend I was fortunate to meet players on all four teams participating at MetLife Stadium, mingle with new faces via the media from other organizations and the league itself, and meet Lord Stanley for the first time — I can’t believe it took this long — in my 32 years of living.

This is just but a small snippet of my life on the job.

Hockey has always been my passion. I started skating at just three years old and have played the game ever since. Despite always dreaming of working in the business, I never could have imagined it would become a reality to do what I do at the rink every day.

I couldn’t be more thankful for the support along the way. I first want to start by thanking Dan Kingerski, who reached out to me to cover the Devils. After a few conversations and mapping out a plan, it was clear that the job was the right fit for me. I’m very fortunate to work with a dedicated team of writers in the National Hockey Now family and I am thankful for their support as well.

Second, without YOU, the readers, New Jersey hockey Now is not possible. Thank you all for reading and supporting me along the way. I’ve met so many readers whether at the Prudential Center or on the road who have been so supportive and kind to me whether online or in person. I’m truly so thankful to have met all of you and I appreciate your continued support.

I also want to thank Pete Albeitz and the Devils’ PR staff. From information to granting me access to 1-on-1 interviews and more, they’ve made working with the Devils an awesome experience.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the close friends I’ve also made along the way. Ryan Novozinsky, Josh Reinitz, and Daniel Amoia have not only become colleagues but also close friends of mine that I can confide in whether it be work-related or life-related. I know Ryan wasn’t thrilled I was labeled the tough guy in the group, but the reality is harsh, pal 😏.

Finally, my wife, Stephanie. Although you might not read this (I promise she supports me in this journey), you’re the biggest reason I can do this every day. You are the backbone of our family that keeps everything in place when I travel, work long and late hours, and raise our two beautiful children at home. I cannot do what I do without you.

Thank you, and I love you.

Year one of New Jersey Hockey Now is a wrap. Year two is just beginning. We’re moving onward and upward. Thank you all again for your support.

We’re just getting started. To be continued!

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