The Essence of Kristen Ditsch
Ambitious ~ Resilient ~ Authentic ~ Magnetic ~ Driven ~ Outgoing ~ Passionate
Well, she’s not perfect. She likes the Buffalo Bills ;-)
Yet another great introduction from the inimitable Paul Patskou at the Hockey Alumni Lunch.
I will be frank. I didn’t know Kristen, but when Paul told me I needed to write a story about someone, I listened. What a delightful connection that has been. Kristen is a delightful person to get to know.
True to Paul’s word, I found Kristen fascinating and lively, and she has lived a momentous journey with many ups and downs. One would never know that by speaking with her. She has such a positive outlook and a great presence.
The photoshoot took place in my new studio setup, and I found Kristen delightful to work with. I would like to comment on something she said, both in passing and in her submitted article answers, that reminds me just how unequal the playing field is for women. Navigating the field of professional broadcasting must feel like the old statement – Ginger Rogers had to do all the same dance steps as Fred Astaire, except backwards and in high heels.
At some time, you reached a fork in the road. At that time, it didn’t feel like it, but looking back, you realize it was a big moment. One that changed your life. Describe yours.
At the time, it just felt like a job opportunity. Looking back, it was the moment my life changed. When Hamilton Sports Group hired me to work with the Tiger-Cats and Forge FC, I didn’t fully grasp how big a turning point it was. I always had a background in sports and loved the energy, community, and culture, but I had never really pursued sports as a career. It wasn’t the plan until suddenly it was. Walking into Tim Hortons Field as staff instead of a fan was the fork in the road I didn’t recognize at the time. It was the moment my passion finally turned into my reality. Being immersed in that environment made me realize this is where I belong. It felt like I finally found my “home” in an industry I hadn’t even originally set out to work in. That role opened doors, expanded my network, gave me purpose, and made it clear that the sports world isn’t just something I enjoy, it’s where I’m meant to be.
What has been your biggest challenge, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge has been navigating the sports industry as a woman. From the outside, people assume it’s glamorous or straightforward, but the reality is far tougher. There is a very real “mean girl” mentality in certain corners of the industry, especially when you stand out, look a certain way, or gain attention or access. Instead of support, you can feel like a threat. Doors don’t always open, and sometimes people actively try to block them to protect their own positions. Climbing the ladder can feel almost impossible when others are more focused on guarding their turf than on growing the industry. I’m still in the thick of it today, but what has helped me overcome it is my refusal to give up. I don’t shrink myself to make others comfortable, and I don’t quit when things get hard, especially not in an industry where I know I belong. I’m fortunate that along the way I’ve found some incredibly solid people on my side who see my potential, advocate for me, and guide me forward. Their support makes a huge difference, but ultimately it’s my resilience and belief in my passion that keep me pushing forward. I’m not done climbing, and I won’t stop just because the path isn’t easy.
What is one gem you learned on your journey that you would love to share? Alternatively, what hint would you tell a younger version of yourself?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is this: you only get one life, so don’t let other people decide how you’re supposed to live it. For a long time, I let others tell me what was “practical,” what I should be doing, or what role I fit into. But if you love something, if it lights you up, and if you feel that deep pull toward it, you owe it to yourself to go after it.
Chasing a dream isn’t always glamorous. It’s confusing, uncomfortable, and sometimes lonely. People will project their fears onto you, try to change your path, or talk you out of what you know in your gut is meant for you. Don’t listen to them. Listen to the part of you that won’t shut up about what you want.
Pay attention to the people who genuinely want to see you win. The ones who encourage you, open doors, offer advice, and cheer you on when no one else is watching. Those are your people. Look to them, not to those who want to clip your wings.
If I could tell my younger self anything, it would be this: you’re allowed to dream big, pursue what you love, and refuse to settle. YOLO isn’t just a tagline; it’s permission to build a life that truly excites you. Never give up just because it takes time. The things that matter usually do.
