I thought it might be time for a short feel good story as we enter the final days of the regular season. As Florida Panther fans know, young (11 years old) Martin Florez has been the main attraction singing the National Anthem at the Florida Panther home games this season.
He has done a phenomenal job in doing so. But it’s not just the anthem that he can sing, Here’s an example of him performing God Bless America last season shortly after the shootings last February, 2018 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School:
He’s become a fan favorite at the home games, and just recently the Florida Panthers posted the video below, allowing fans to become more acquainted with him:
Not to take anything away from “our Martin”, it seems that other “youngsters are or have been getting their shot at fame. Earlier this week, 4 year old Landon Mak sang the National Anthem prior to a game for the Hersey Bears of the AHL. Not only was his rendition the cutest thing you’ve ever heard, but look at the fine outfit he had, and how perfect his hair was.
Honestly you could have gone home immediately after he was done. That’s how good it was. The reactions of some of the players was priceless, and I especially loved one of the comments from another posting, which was: I’d like to thank Johnny Gaudreau for singing. (I hope you know who Johnny Gaudreau is).
Besides singing, there are times that youngsters are able to get a taste of reporting. While it doesn’t happen very often, a few short years ago, the Dallas Stars had Morgan the Junior Reporter:
This reporting “gig” may have started in Chicago around 2010 as the Chicago Blackhawks had an inside reporter. His title was Joey the Junior Reporter. Here’s an example of some of his work, which includes current Panther and former Blackhawk Troy Brouwer. Who makes a statement that is not only funny, but possibly cost him a night or three on the sofa:
This has to be one of the cutest things ever. Especially when he comments about coach Q’s mustache! He’s got a few more on You Tube as well. Not sure where he’s at today, but hopefully honing his reporting skills. If anyone knows of his whereabouts, please let me know. Would love a chat with him.
So, the moral of today’s post is, start young, chase your dream, and maybe you can grow up to be what you want to be.
Thanks for reading and watching.
Please share, and follow me on Twitter @FrankRekas