LLOYD ILETT

I never thought that I would ever pen a missive like this, but after more than two decades writing for The Hamilton Spectator, it’s time to say farewell.

While I have only been working in the office for the last three years, I was the cricket correspondent for 20 years writing previews and reviews for each edition.

In the last three years, since I joined the company as a sports journalist, I have had my eyes opened to the wider world of the sports that are played within Hamilton and surrounds.

To be able to cover all the various sports has been an honour and a privilege, and I have enjoyed bringing these sportspeople’s stories to our community.

When we think of sport, we automatically look to football, netball, tennis, and cricket, but there are so many other sports enjoyed in our community that I pray the new paper will continue to cover, as they deserve just as much recognition as the mainstream sports.

Covering sports such as swimming, bowls, athletics, motor sports, soccer, hockey, gymnastics, etc. (just to name a few) has shown me that our community is full of brilliant talented men, women, boys and girls who strive to produce personal best performances every time they compete.

ADAM HILL

THEY say farewells are never easy.

Well, I am finding out the hard way, finishing up in a role I have loved and enjoyed for the past six and a half years, but it is also a time to celebrate and thank you all.

Getting to know so many of you and being entrusted to tell your stories is something I have never taken lightly.

Covering so many different sports over the years, and sharing good times and bad, it has been a period of my life that has encompassed many contrasting emotions, and I am incredibly grateful for the trust and respect the community has given me.

Covering AFLW draftees, AFL retirements, Olympic appearances and Paralympic medals, with handfuls of community grassroots sport have made each and every day at the desk different, but oh so enjoyable.

Thank you to everyone who has said hello, offered a story tip, or shared their story with me.

The community support has also been amazing, with clubs and associations granting me easy access when I’ve asked and opening their doors to make my job easier.

It has been an honour, and I will continue to watch on from the sidelines to see how all your stories continue to progress.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and may 2025 bring many victories, both professionally and personally for you all.