Cybulski pumped to work in sports again
Don’t get him wrong, the last six months have been a thrill for James Cybulski.
As a breaking news reporter for News 1130 radio, he’s been to early morning fires, reported on crime and had to think about the issues facing commuters in a whole new way.
“It’s been incredibly humbling,” he said Wednesday of what he’s learned from his news colleagues.
Cybulski’s enthusiasm for storytelling, which has always shone through the TV screen, also jumps through the phone.
A year ago, he was just hoping to get back in the business, having seen the Vancouver-based edition of Sportsnet Connected nightly sports news and highlights show shut down. After several months of hosting The Waggle — the CFL’s official podcast — and “mostly just being a dad,” Cybulski found himself in the world of news.
“I really enjoyed news a lot more than I realized,” he says.
Life as a father and a commuter gave him new perspective, too.
“There’s so much more in my community which felt important than when I was in my 20s, just starting out.”
And getting to cover crime scenes felt a bit like he was joining the family business — his sister and father are cops. He’s also clear where home is. “This is home. I didn’t want to go back east. This is where my kids are.”
But sports was where his passions always lay.
Wednesday it was confirmed he will be part of a three-person hosting team for Sportsnet 650’s morning drive show when the station launches in September; he’s co-hosting with Steve Darling and Mira Laurence.
“To get a second lease on life in this business, I hope it’s not used my nine lives,” he says. “I’m excited. I’m excited for Mira, for Steve. I’m excited for everyone. The person who listens benefits.”
Having a new sports outlet on the scene can only be a good thing, he insisted.
“There’s going to be a lot of choices. Everyone needs to step up collectively.”
At the same time, he knows what the new station is up against.
“We’re a startup radio station. (Building an audience) is going to take some time.”
Rogers, he said, “they understand the blueprint. Vancouver is a unique market but they recognize the road ahead.”
Having the Canucks radio rights for the next five years “brings instant recognition, instant street cred,” but Cybulski also figures the 15 years or so of Sportsnet Canucks telecasts will help, too.
He’s not worried there will be pressure to be Canucks-friendly. He points to his past Sportsnet experience, with Rogers owning both the network and the Toronto Blue Jays. Personalities like Gregg Zaun or the Tim and Sid show never pull any punches in their criticism.
“Rogers had to allow people to spout off,” he says.
The investment Rogers made also gives him a belief that wasn’t there in his last go-round.
“As much as I enjoyed working with Caroline Cameron and our great crew, we knew there wasn’t a long-term plan,” he says. “This time they’re committed, they’re invested.
“I’ve know Craig MacEwen for a long time. Scott Moore was really good to me way back.”
The new show will surprise people, he says.
People know his track record. Morning TV viewers know Steve Darling well — Cybulski promises, with a laugh, “Steve won’t be cooking!” — and Mira Laurence has long experience in the Victoria sports community.
“As much as I enjoyed working with Caroline Cameron and our great crew, we knew there wasn’t a long-term plan.” — James Cybulski