IT TOOK A while to jump on the memory train for the particulars of managing the Sports Section in Volume 72, technically speaking. Back then it was a calculated risk, running for the position, as sports writing was not my forte. However, in my tenure, I’d say the Sports Section is one of the most vital part of our publication. It’s the most tedious one as well, with matches going on different locations at the same time, you have to cover every game with the same wanting as the other. Appointing writers who would best do about a specific sports article is tricky, I’m blessed enough to have great writers at that time. The challenge of engaging readers to take a second look at the articles we write is something else. It was fulfilling not only in a way you get to explore approaches in writing, levelling the intensity of writing between a chess match and a football match, but more of meeting other coaches and even extending your presence with more prominent sports figures on a larger arena.
On one hand, writing is not a skill but a privilege, one I used to this day. Student journalism on the other, for specificity, draws a separate line for responsibility and discipline. The responsibility to become messengers for the unheard and the discipline to deliver the whole truth to it. Follow the guidelines, document the facts and deliver the news. Upset the established order and watch the stories unfold clearer. I’ll borrow one from Jordan Peterson, “because in order to be able to think, you have to risk being offended.” It means you’ll always be a target for doubts and scrutiny from spectators. It’s not a curse for student writers, but an opportunity to be great journalists as writing is our privilege and journalism sets the platform.
“The flashbacks look more sentimental when you hardly reminisce the hardships but more of the people you work with.”
Ultimately, the flashbacks look more sentimental when you hardly reminisce the hardships but more of the people you work with. The endless stakeouts of wondering if you’ll be dominated by the delays of submission or be overwhelmed by our shortcomings. But beyond the wording disputes with co-editors and the brewing cold war in the office, I always enjoy everything get resolved by the end of the day. It’s the people you work with after all. The air you breathe with every successful newspaper release, and of course the warm pizza melting your worries for the next month.
I’m always indebted to this publication for the opportunity. I appreciated the huge effort from these people reaching out to us for another column in one of the most prestigious Student Publications, The Bedan. To the incumbents, may you all remain sturdy against crisis of any form, write with conviction, and trust each other even the weirdest member. Kidding. Writing will always be a different feeling, an emotional high. Or perhaps it’s that silly Bedan heart we have, always ready to answer the Clarion’s Call.
Editor’s Note: In celebration of The Bedan‘s 83rd anniversary, the Board published a series of unabridged, unedited pieces from editors of previous volumes, highlighting the publication’s rich history and its impact in shaping the voice of the Bedan community