Throughout the 2022-23 off-season, the Ontario Hockey League will be spotlighting a member from each team’s front office staff as we look to highlight those working “Behind the Scenes” of the day-to-day operations.
To get us started, we caught up with Guelph Storm Community Relations Coordinator, Lisa Della Mattia.
LDM: My name is Lisa Della Mattia, I am the Community Relations Coordinator for the Guelph Storm and I have been with the team for two seasons. One as an intern and one full time. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and certificate in Civic Engagement from the University of Guelph, a certificate in Employment Relations from Queens University, and a Master of Science in Sports Administration from Canisius College.
What are your responsibilities as the Guelph Storm’s Community Relations Coordinator?
LDM: A large part of my job is coordinating player appearances whether it be ongoing partnerships or new opportunities that come up. These range from post-game player events, school appearances, minor hockey practices, and our marquee events like Served by the Storm and Bowl with the Storm. This past season the guys were out at nearly 50 appearances in Guelph and surrounding towns. Another big part of my job is working closely with our Communications Manager overseeing all the social media channels. With jobs ranging from sponsored content, scheduling and posting, website updating, game day coverage, and finding new ways to engage our fans across our social media.
What sparked your interest in the hockey industry?
LDM: Throughout my undergrad I worked in athletics at my university as a Game Day Manager, while I worked all sports, my main focus was men’s and women’s hockey. Through both the good and the bad in that role, my passion for working in hockey began. My ultimate goal is to be able to engage fans in some way, but also support the athletes as people first.
What led you to your current role with the Guelph Storm?
LDM: In 2021 I began my graduate studies and like many, needed an internship to meet the requirements to graduate. I decided to take on all my course work while doing my internship at the same time to graduate early. I remember the day I walked into the Storm office to interview with Lindsay at the start of the 2021/22 season, and I still haven’t left. The staff in the Storm front office are true OHL vets, almost all my co-workers have been here for 15 years or more, and they welcomed me with open arms.
What is the most fulfilling part about working for the Storm?
LDM: In my role I have the opportunity to build strong relationships with different people in the organization and the community. I have a chance to let fans look into the players lives through social media and allow the players to highlight causes that are important to them on our channels. While also bringing the players into different community settings. The community component is so special within the Storm, and this has been paved by those who held the role before me. No matter how small the appearance may seem to some, it’s an important reminder to never forget what’s bigger than the game. Being at the start of my professional career, I am growing up alongside the players and that is something so special to me.
