Two ThurstonTalk sports writers capture the essence of a high school student athlete’s accomplishments. They actively seek out stories from coaches, athletic directors, administrators and teammates. In each article, Grant Clark and Gail Wood introduce the community to a student athlete or a small group of players that are making an impact.
“We cover sports in a different fashion than traditional media,” explains editor Amy Rowley. “Instead of box scores and last night’s game highlights, we are talking about the players and what they are accomplishing both on and off the field.”
Grant Clark has covered local sports for 20 years. “What I love about writing for ThurstonTalk is the connection that we have to the community,” he says. “These are stories for and about the people who live here.”
“In regards to writing, the sporting aspects have always been second compared to meeting with the individuals involved,” Clark says. He references a story about Jonny Hansen, as an example. Hansen is a Rainier High School student who participates in track. He also completed basic training for the US Army prior to starting his senior year in high school. “Jonny was easily one of the nicest kids I have interviewed in 20 years of high school sports.”
Many student athletes share ThurstonTalk stories with prospective college coaches and admission officers. The articles detail who the student is beyond just their highlight reel.
We often receive notes of appreciation and gratitude from parents, coaches, and players. “These two young ladies really deserve it,” says Coach Feliciano after reading an article about his North Thurston High School fastpitch team.
Gail Wood also has an extensive history of sharing sports stories with the greater Thurston County community.
“Through ThurstonTalk, I get to talk with people in the community and share their stories,” says Wood. “Each story is an opportunity to bring attention to a person’s accomplishment, giving the community an opportunity to say ‘nice job’ or ‘thank you.’”
“This is a remarkable place and ThurstonTalk showcases the passion of the community. The stories highlight real people who are making a difference. Stories that can inspire others that otherwise wouldn’t be told,” says Clark in summary.
Read more of Grant Clark and Gail Wood’s sports stories on ThurstonTalk.com. Share a story idea with us at submit@thurstontalk.com.
ThurstonTalk is a digital media company sharing positive stories about people, places and businesses in Thurston County. ThurstonTalk offers content marketing and online options across our Community Social Network to advertise in Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, and beyond. Advertise with ThurstonTalk to reach your target market, grow your brand, and measure results.
