“Every podcast and every photo I learn more about untold stories from the Ottawa sport scene – whether the coaches, athletes, parents or fans, Robert captures different perspectives.”

— Steven Drover, nominator

Sport can be a powerful tool in uniting a community. For sport to have such an effect, it’s important that journalists and storytellers are actively connecting fans and community members with the athletes and teams they support. Robert Greeley does just that, telling the untold stories of Ottawa amateur sport through innovative digital journalism.

Greeley began showcasing the Ottawa sport community through his work in 2016 after moving from Newfoundland to pursue an undergraduate degree at the University of Ottawa. Since then, he’s used a variety of audio and visual platforms to connect members of the Ottawa sport community with their favourite athletes and teams.

“Being nominated as a Community Sport Hero is a tremendous compliment,” said Greeley, who has told the stories of the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees and Ottawa 67s, among others. “The power of sport comes from the community and to be recognized, as someone who plays a role in connecting individuals to their favourite athlete or team is humbling.”

Greeley sheds light on the often-underrepresented amateur sport scene in a unique way through his podcast Greels Reels, his YouTube channel, photography, social media and other forms of multimedia.

“Everyone has a story to tell, and these experiences allow members of the community to connect and relate to their favourite programs and players,” said Greeley. “The best stories tend to be in the community and lead up to the biggest moments in sport, and the more they’re documented, we set a better understanding of the journey.”

“As someone who grew up in Newfoundland, it’s been exceptional to see how the Ottawa sport community has embraced me,” he said. “I truly am grateful for the nomination, the city, teams, support staff, and players I’ve gotten the chance to get to know.”

Greeley’s work telling the stories of the Ottawa sport community has led him to pursue a master’s degree in digital media at Ryerson University.