I have been a devoted listener of The Team 990 / TSN Radio 690 since Day
One. I can safely say that I am one of the few listeners that can
probably list the programming line up when the station went to an all
sports format back in 2001.
Although I listen to the station for
the majority of the day, I haven't once called into one of its open
line shows in 12 years because I am unable to do so due to my disability
of cerebral palsy. The disability prevents me from speaking clearly
and some individuals may have difficulties understanding me over the
phone.
Sports talk has always been a vehicle for me to connect with
individuals who may be hesitant to engage with a person with a
disability. Whether it was a "nervy ninth" from Candlestick Park or a
Hab loss, the hot topic of the day that was being discussed on the radio
was my avenue to integrate myself into "the main-stream" and not be
seen as an outcast at school. Since The Team 990 / TSN Radio 990 / 690
took to the air, I have been able to expand my circle of friends and
some of the station's hosts have come to know and approach me in public
without any hesitation.
By forcing Bell Media to divest itself
from TSN Radio 690 and not be granted an exemption, the CRTC will be not
only taking away an unique platform for English speaking sports fans in
Montreal but a source of information and entertainment that will allow
individuals with challenges of being integrated socially into the
mainstream. I can say with confidence that I would not be where I am
today socially and in my professional career without the ability to
connect with others thanks to sports and a 24 hours radio sports talk
medium such as TSN Radio 690.
Sincerely,
Ian Smith
A Grateful Montreal Sports Fan
@sportstaughts
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