Sookram wins major OUA broadcasting award

A hard-working local broadcaster and freelance writer with BayToday has been recognized. 

Matt 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 Honour Awards on Wednesday night. 

"Sookram has the voice and the knowledge to deliver a polished and professional call to OUA.tv viewers and ensures Lakers student-athletes get the recognition they deserve for their outstanding play," the OUA stated in a release.  

"Not only that, but Sookram and the athletic department consistently complement Sookram on his ability to correctly pronounce all player's names during games, proving once again that he takes the time and care to provide a top-tier webcast for viewers of both the home and visiting sides."

Sookram spends a lot of time behind the microphone. He along with partner Kortney Kenney, operate the Frontline Podcast which also broadcasts North Bay Battalion, Powassan Voodoos and North Bay U18 Trappers games this past season.  

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

"It is very special and I am very honoured that the Lakers submitted me for this award," said Sookram. 

"I think it is a reflection on the hard work by the Lakers and myself that we have collectively put into broadcasting these games over the years."

The father of two thanks his wife for having the patience to allow him to pursue his broadcasting passion. 

"It is something I have been doing since we are dating and now growing in this life together and we have kids now and the fact that she very patient with me being away for a lot of dinners and  a lot of bed times with the kids, I could not have done this without her."