from John Matisz of The Score,
Which wolf are you feeding?
That's a question Justin Bourne, the former pro hockey player turned Sportsnet NHL analyst, ponders daily. Like the rest of us, Bourne feeds either his inner good wolf or his inner bad wolf with every decision he makes.
This past Sunday, Bourne's daughter Molly suddenly wanted to "play superheroes" in the basement of the family's Toronto home. The timing wasn't ideal, as the Super Bowl was about to kick off. Bourne fed the good wolf, though, and chose Molly's contentment over the game's opening 10 minutes.
"If I were still drinking," the 40-year-old Bourne said, "I wouldn't have been there for her.
"It's a little thing, right? But I feel like I did the right thing. And, on large, I'm just trying to remind myself that when faced with those decisions - big or small - more food needs to go to the good wolf than the bad wolf in order for me to feel like I'm in control of my life."
Ive read and followed him since his days at The Score, whatever that turned into. His analysis was/is almost always spot on. I didnt know he had substance issues, but good on him for both cleaning it up and now trying to help others by being open about it.
I met Justin and his wife Brianna on 2 occasions - one of them was at a summer event for Matt Martin's foundation and he could not have been nicer. Not sure if the article stated it- but Justin's wife is the daughter of Pam and the late Clark Gillies. I was aware of a few of the former Isles having issues with alcohol but not aware of how much it impacted Bob.
I am a HUGE fan of Justin's writing and media career. He is not generally afraid to tell it like it is and was particularly great at explaining WHY things happen as opposed to more "Captain Obvious" what happened. Also - gave great insight to what really goes on in the room and I don't always get to see his tv show on the NHL Network ( partially because of work and mostly because it is LEAFS centric.)
I will have to pick up the book and read it. Sorry to hear his dad had concussions and that might have caused a wedge in the family. I wish the family all the best.
He would be a great candidate to get into coaching - if he wanted that.
Another fellow who I think reminds me of Justin from a former player turned media guy - is Thomas Hickey - who just joined the broadcast team for the Islanders - sharing the position with AJ Mleczko. VERY bright guy with very insightful position. Great to see new blood in the game and people who can take the torch and give great hockey insight goingforward.
Create an Account
In order to leave a comment, please create an account.