Sookram wins an award for his broadcasting skill

Matt Sookram, who has been calling a variety of sports in a variety of leagues for more than a decade, was recently saluted for one aspect of his countless hours in behind the microphone.

Sookram, who has been the broadcast voice for the Nipissing Lakers hockey and soccer teams throughout the 2022-23 season, was named the Best Webcast Announcer in Ontario University Athletics at the OUA (Ontario University Athletics) Honour Awards last week.

The Canadore graduate singles out coaches and players along with Nipissing University Athletic Director Vito Castiglione and Communications Director Robb Fenton for putting in the nomination.

Sookram, who works full time in the office of Nipissing-timiskaming MP Anthony Rota, still finds time to call North Bay Battalion, Powassan Voodoos and North Bay Trappers home games on the Frontline Podcast.

How did it all get started? “My mom planted that seed in my head, as I wanted to play baseball and as time went on and I did not keep growing, she said maybe you should try something else in sports,” says Sookram.

Like so many, Sookram was calling imaginary games involving his buddies.

“If they were playing road hockey, I was the guy emulating Jim Hughson (longtime NHL (National Hockey League announcer), Sean Mcdonough (American sports announcer), Tom Cheek and Jerry Howarth (Blue Jays announcers). So, when I was playing with my friends, I was trying to be those guys (announcing) while in the field at the same time.” says Sookram.

Sookram is a die-hard Leafs fan, so he also admired their legendary play-by-play man.

“I love listening to Joe Bowen, his excitement and passion fuels my passion. I love listening to some of the bigger names,” remarked Sookram.

Sookram, a married father of twins, is out a lot and thanks to wife Sara, he can do all these games.

“She has had the patience over the years to let me pursue that passion. With the kids and the family that we have grown, she has become even more patient,” says a laughing Sookram.

He is pleased with the award because he means to Sookram those listening enjoy hearing him call a game.

“It’s nice to know that people are out there that enjoy your work it is very gratifying,” remarked Sookram.