FEATURES
Shawn Simpson
SIMMER T S N
1 2 0 0
H o s t
You were drafted in the OHL draft in 1985 by the Sault. Ste. Marie Greyhounds. You were also the first goalie taken in the draft. How did this experience feel for you and what was your first reaction when you found out you were the first goalie selected? Very proud. I was drafted right out of Gloucester Rangers Midget AAA. I knew a lot about the OHL, and the Soo’s great history. I was 16 and nervous leaving home. I also played for Canada at the Under 18 that summer. So it’s when hockey became my way of life. What was it like playing goalie in the OHL? Which was your favourite team that you played for? I loved playing in the Soo and Oshawa. Playing for Canada in the 1987 WJC was a real thrill. Still very proud of that accomplishment. The OHL is a great proving ground for young talent. Over the years, you have had many ups and downs in your personal life. How do you feel that these experiences have changed your views on life and sports? My personal journey has been tied very closely to my professional life. I’ve had so many great experiences. Plenty of failure. I’ve always followed my passion for life and work. It’s given me a unique perspective and allowed me to evolve into a very interesting person, lol. I certainly wish I could do some things differently. But I’m very comfortable in my own skin. I also feel I’ve become a real person. What was the transition like for you from playing hockey for Washington’s affiliate team to working for the Capital’s television network as a colour commentator? It was simple and seamless. I knew the NHL and Capital’s like the back of my hand. I also did pro scouting. So it was a great fit. I was and still am a proud Caps alumni. It was a blast. Everyone calls you Simmer. Is there a story to this name? Who first called you Simmer and how did it come to be? Wish I had a better story. Anyone with the last name Simpson, is usually Simmer. I’ve had it since I was 15. Over your career, you have worked for the Washington Capital’s organization as well as the Leaf’s organization. Which organization did you enjoy working for the most and why? Washington was my life from ‘86 to 2004. I learned under David Poile. Had a chance to become Asst. GM in Nashville when he left. It was a huge mistake not following him. I loved my time in DC. We had a great group. A real bond as staff and players. My Toronto days were great under John Ferguson, but it was doomed from the start. Fergie wanted to rebuild, but upper management wouldn’t allow that process. You have been working for TSN 1200 (originally known as “The Team 1200) radio station for over two years now. What has been your favourite memory since joining the radio station? Returning to Ottawa was a smart personal move. Getting on with TSN 1200 was a God send. It’s given me stability. A great work environment.
14 | October 2014
Allowed me to be myself. I love the daily routine with “The Panda” and the entire staff. It’s a very healthy work place. I’ve enjoyed every minute. It’s allowed me to do National TV work on CTV and be a regular on OTR. It fits perfect with my 20 years in NHL management. The Senators have had a lot of changes over the past 6 months. They no longer have Spezza and Hemsky and they have added Legwand and Chiasson to the team. How do you think the Senators are looking in terms of success for the upcoming season? I like the group. They should be solid. Play a harder and smarter brand of hockey. I still see a solid talent base. You can’t win with one way players. I love the young core and they have drafted very well. I’m excited for the season to start. Over the past 6 months, has there been a specific decision made by the Senators management team that you strongly agree with? Any that you strongly disagree with? I like the young core. It’s important they resign Methot and Ryan. The Bishop trade was a disaster. You can’t trade top talent into the division and get nothing in return. They have a solid management group. They just need funds from ownership to keep it moving ahead. You and Ian are a great team of co-hosts on “The Drive.” What is your funniest memory from working with Ian on the show? Do the two of you ever “butt-head’s” when it comes to different perspectives on sports debates? Who usually “win’s” the debates between the two of you? Ian is a terrific host and great man. We argue all the time. I worked in the NHL for many years. I’ve learned to argue and leave it behind. I love a great debate with a smart guy. We have plenty of laughs, and lots of debate. I love coming to work everyday. That’s what matters most. This is a great job and I am super thankful. @TSNSimmer