Matt Gelb

Sports Editor, Asst. Sports Editor

Fall 2006-Spring 2008

Why do I find myself apologizing more than anything in this? I suppose that’s a bad thing. I’ve been a jerk, and I guess that’s what power does to you. So I’m giving it up, finally. Syracuse fans should be excited about that. Ever since I stepped foot in this office, football and basketball have been dismal. I always thought of myself as a curse, so maybe that means good things come football season. Hah.

That’s my legacy. I presided over some of the darkest times in SU sports history, ruffled a few feathers and met some great people. Oh, it was definitely worth it. No doubt.

My sports staff: I’d be nothing without you, of course. I hope in some way I helped you decide whether this profession is right for you. If you ever need any advice or a read, I’m always there to help.

Schonbrun: We’re both back to staff writers. I never thought I’d outlast you, and I really did miss your wit this semester. You’re the best writer on campus – and that’s without ever taking a journalism class. Take that, Newhouse. You can do whatever you want, and I hope someday after we leave here, our paths cross again. Thanks for being a good friend.

ZB: To quote John Wooden: ‘You can’t live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.’ I envied your encyclopedia of a brain. So I listened as much as I could. You’ll make it to SI one day. There’s no other way that story can end. Thanks for getting me an internship, too.

Ramsey: I remember when you challenged me to find a voice. I think I got it, for better or worse. Having you around made what I did so much easier. Practically cheating, in fact. I can’t wait for your Victory and Ruins.

Clayton: It’s all yours. You have a great semester ahead of you. Remember these three things: 1. Find other ways to keep your sanity. 2. Always delegate. 3. There’s always another way to do something. I’ll be around – and not just to write the Penn State snowbeat.

Jaimie: Take care of him, please. And be understanding – I know you’ll both be fine.

Levin: What the hell can I say about you? One, you’re a damn good writer, so start doing it more. Two, Scott Olsen is not that good. Three, you always make people around you laugh. Definitely underrated.

Kyle: I didn’t have to teach you much. That’s one of the highest compliments I can give.

Andy: You know, you don’t suck as much as you think. I’m glad you decided to start writing for my section. You’ve already improved immensely. If you see me on the Quad, don’t run away.

Dockery: You’re a natural. I give you a tough time, but that’s because I respect the hell out of you. Good luck.

Tyler: Watch Clayton. Remember the Enlightenment. Keep thinking outside of the box. Watch for the land mines.

Every D.O. sports guy that came before me: We’re nothing without you. Thanks for the advice. I hope I lived up to the tradition and expectations.

The next generation: Remember those who came before you.

Conroy: Silver Fox! You taught me everything I know about design and the rest of the world has probably forsaken you for that. Keep the rejection letters; they’ll be worth something someday.

Hannah: Prepare the zipline, we’re opening the window. Be careful on the streets of Detroit. It’s probably not best to walk up to strangers and yell, ‘HI FRIEND!’

Sahar: I’ll never understand you. Never. But that’s what you want, and I think it’s awesome. Still not sure why you didn’t just drop out and stay at The Globe. Oh well, best PUP food ever.

Every designer that’s worked at The Daily Orange in the last two years: I’m sorry.

Gorman: Sorry for never writing that Tim Lane profile. It was probably for the better.

Janela and Anthes: I’ll never forget where I was when Endy made that catch. Too bad it couldn’t have ended differently. Thanks for the worldly advice on everything Jersey.

Medina: Don’t ever lose your determination. It’s gotten you so far already.

Jared: Give the coaches a break this year. Well, you’ll probably learn the hard way. Always stick to your guns, though, no matter what someone may say.

Tahmosh: Hold onto that girl, she’s a winner. I hope you go back to journalism eventually. You’re pretty darn good at it.

Reilly: Keep smiling.

Coward West: The smartest person I ever worked with in the house. Keep at it. I don’t think I’d deal with what you do.

Melissa: Relax already.

A.J.: I doubted you, but that was silly. You united a divided house, and that’s one of the toughest things to do. And you made it look effortless.

Greg Robinson: Sorry about that one.

Ethan, AJ and Shmek: It took two years, but here it is. Thanks for still remembering me. Sometimes.

The Manor: I guess I’ll see you guys more now. OK…maybe I should stay here. Sorry I couldn’t get those predictions right.

Everyone else I missed: I’m sorry for (fill in the blank). They only gave me 850 words, and I’m already way over.

Jackie: My hard work paid off. In you. I wouldn’t have done any of this if it weren’t for you.

Published on April 28, 2008 at 12:00 pm