By Joshua Pierre / Full360 Columnist
Marcus Hayes is an accomplished columnist for the Inquirer, whose prolific contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of sports journalism. With a career spanning several decades, Hayes, who now covers the big Philadelphia sports teams, has consistently demonstrated his prowess in the art of storytelling and insightful commentary.
His unique perspective, keen analytical skills, and unapologetic style have made him a formidable force in the realm of sports journalism, where he has covered a wide array of topics, from the triumphs and tribulations of athletes to the broader societal issues that intersect with the sports world. Hayes’ dedication to journalistic excellence and his ability to engage, inform, and provoke thought in his readers have earned him a well-deserved reputation as a prominent figure in the industry, setting the standard for contemporary sports columnists.
In early November, Delaware Valley University’s media program had the privilege of hosting a visit from Hayes. Through both a podcast with student digital producers and a class discussion, he shared invaluable insights and his remarkable journey in the world of journalism. To be honest, I hadn’t anticipated that writing stories and immersing oneself in the world of sports could be so incredibly fascinating, but Marcus Hayes is an exceptional storyteller.
With an impressive 33-year career in journalism, he continues to hold a prominent and influential position in the industry. Having previously served as a beat writer covering the Phillies and the Eagles, his transition into the role of a columnist for the past 13 years has afforded him the opportunity to report on some of the most significant sporting events, including the Olympics.
Following an enlightening presentation, we had the opportunity to record a podcast featuring Hayes, with Taji Hubbard and Miachi Williams assuming the roles of hosts. During the podcast’s introductory segment, he remarked,
“People ask me all the time what I do for a living and I tell them, I steal money because I can’t believe I get paid to do what I do.”
Getting paid for sharing your perspective, legally? Count me in! It’s truly remarkable how figures like Hayes and fellow sports columnists receive compensation for voicing opinions on matters of great importance in the world of sports. This not only adds authenticity but also shines a spotlight on the unique personalities of these writers.
Given his background as a former athlete who excelled in basketball and soccer during his younger years, it’s hardly astonishing that Hayes secured an internship as a sports writer while pursuing his education at Syracuse University. This internship, which later evolved into a full-time position, led him to the realm of high school sports coverage in Syracuse.
In the podcast, Hayes offered guidance for individuals who are embarking on their journeys and grappling with the challenges of finding their path. Remarkably, the wisdom he shared transcends the realm of journalism, and holds relevance for life at large. When queried about his advice for those at the initial stages of any career, Marcus Hayes responded by saying,
“One of the things that I was fortunate to fall into, and something my dad told me when I was younger is, you’re going to be ask to do things that you are not comfortable doing, so don’t only do the things you’re comfortable with do the things you are not comfortable with and become adept at them even if you’re not expert at them.”