A Hometown Kid living his dream, that's the best way to describe Pro Football Hall Of Fame sports writer Ray Didinger. To this sports writer and podcaster Ray was much more. Ray represented everything I ever dreamed of, once I knew playing pro sports was way out of the question. Ray proved that you can still reach the pinnacle of sport through non-athletic means, with creativity, intelligence and passion he reached the height of the football world without catching a pass blocking a tenacious edge rusher or even kicking a field goal.

This past Sunday Ray “Diddy” officially retired from 94.1 WIP and NBC Sports Philadelphia. I am sure I speak for all of us when I say that we are all better, more informed fans for having read, watched and listened to his work over his long productive event-filled career covering sports in his hometown. However I am not here to tell you Ray’s story but rather the impact he has had on mine.

You see, through all these years I have worked endless hours as a butcher, but I always wanted something more, something I could be proud and passionate about. Every Saturday and Sunday I made sure to tune in to Glen and Ray from 10 to 1 and listen to two of the best in the business chop it up about not only sports but life, TV, and countless other subjects, and I would always come away not only entertained but inspired. I knew from then on what I wanted to do, talk sports, write and inspire. I hope one day I can fulfill this desire.

Regardless I know that I have years of wisdom and knowledge that I wouldn't have had if I had not grown up listening to this man in a city that we are all proud to be from but none prouder than Mr.Didinger he alway made sure that nationally he presented the right image of the Philadelphia sports fan and stood up for us everytime the classic responses from other cities fans came out (snowballs at santa). I applaud Ray’s approach to the next chapter in his life as a family man, a grandfather, husband and Dad.

As for the next chapter of my life it will be right here on Olde City Sports Network. Writing, podcasting, and growing alongside our team and with our amazing readers and listeners. As for the rest, I suppose it will continue to write itself as we go. One thing is for sure though we will all miss Ray’s thoughts and analysis of all our teams while simultaneously being thankful for everything he's done over his career.

THANK YOU RAY!

• Shawn Campbell A.K.A The Mayor - Sundays For The Birds Pod - Olde City Sports Network

Photo cred- WHP