By Joelle Wood/OHL
Having proudly served as on-air host of London Knights hockey on Rogers tv for several seasons, Paige Martin is making strides in the hockey community. With a passion for storytelling, Paige continues to throw herself in new and challenging environments as she joins the Edmonton Oilers as their new Digital Content Producer.
“I loved the opportunity that I had in London with the Knights because I had the ability to meet so many great people. Being able to interview people like Hayley Wickenheiser is the highlight of my career. The Knights have so many important people who walk through their doors, it really provided me with a lot of opportunity to grow.”
A native of London, Ont., Paige knows first-hand what the Knights community is all about.
“The Knights fans are so dedicated, they’re the best in the league. The relationships I’ve been able to build with those around me no longer feel like work, they feel like family. Being in London is a privilege for not only the players, but people like myself as well. Having the ability to broadcast the game for such a big crowd, it’s a big deal.”
Joining the Knights’ broadcast in 2018, Paige has had the ability to make a direct impact on the young fans that enter Budweiser Gardens.
“I was aware that I was a young female on the Knights broadcast. I noticed very quickly that little girls saw me in an important position, and realized that it could be a possibility for them as well. My perspective changed from not only doing my job well, but to also becoming a role model for those around me.”
With her time in London coming to an end, Paige is optimistic for what the future holds in Edmonton.
“It’s a dream come true. OHL players who get drafted into the NHL always say that they’re going to a first-class organization, after visiting my new home in Edmonton, I finally understand what that means. The Oilers are very aware that they are home to the best hockey player in the world (Connor McDavid), and they do everything right by it. I’m used to very passionate fans in London, and I know I’m heading to extremely passionate fans in Edmonton.”
The OHL celebrated International Women’s Day this week, and Paige shines as a true example of confidence and determination, no matter the situation she faces.
“I know that I have the education and the experience to be able to speak on-air and conduct a good interview, but I think I’m able to do those things so well and consistently get better at it because of the confidence that I have in myself.”
“There are still instances where some people think that women don’t belong in hockey. The more we keep showing up and the more we keep doing an amazing job, that provides an example to everyone around us of why we deserve to be here. More and more women are coming into the sports industry and I think that it’s needed. It shows those little girls that there is absolutely space for them in this industry and that they belong here.”
yes, Jordyn made that headset herself.
yes, female representation in sports is important.
yes, we hope to be on a panel together one day. pic.twitter.com/51zOBKaCed— paige martin (@paigymartin) April 8, 2019
As Paige starts her new journey with the Oilers, the Ontario Hockey League wishes her great success!