If you are a hockey fan, then you know that there are a ton of great shows and podcasts that cover the greatest game in the world.
With that said, there is none bigger than Spittin’ Chiclets. They do an unbelievable job of covering the sport with passion, authenticity, and they are one of the best when it comes to getting their guests to be open and relaxed with them.
This is why I am so proud to present an email interview I conducted with Matt Murley, who is one of the members of Spittin’ Chiclets. Matt took time out of his busy schedule to tell us about how he got into hockey, what it was like to be a professional hockey player, how he got involved with Spittin’ Chiclets, and more.
Here it is:
PH: Growing up, how did you get into hockey?
MM: My mother saw a learn to skate ad in the local newspaper and thought that my brother and I would enjoy it. Later on, my father got us involved in hockey and the rest is history.
PH: Growing up, who was your favorite team (s) and player (s)?
MM: My favorite team was the New York Islanders. My favorite players were Joe Juneau, Wayne Gretzky, and Mario Lemieux.
PH: At what point in your life did you know that you wanted to be a professional hockey player?
MM: For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be a professional hockey player. I realized there was a chance when I was 16 years old.
PH: What was it like to be drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins?
MM: It was a dream come true. At the time, Mario and Jaromir Jagr were on the team, so it was amazing.
PH: What was it like playing in the Penguins’ organization?
MM: We had a lot of fun and playing with Mario and Sidney Crosby. Those are two things that I will look back on and tell my kids about.
We had a fun group in the minors and NHL and have made friends for life through that organization.
PH: You also played overseas in various countries for various clubs. What was that experience like for you?
MM: Playing overseas was something that I wanted to do and experience. It did not disappoint.
Taking in the various cultures is something that I will have for life.
PH: Tell us about how you parlayed your hockey-playing career into a gig with Barstool Sports?
MM: I was roommates with Ryan Whitney in Wilkes-Barre and Pittsburgh and remained close friends. When I retired, I went on a trip to do an interview and on the trip I reconnected with Paul Bissonnette and met the rest of the crew.
When the time came and they needed more help I was called up!
PH: What is it like to be a part of the Spittin’ Chiclets brand?
MM: It has been a dream come true to work with the entire team and help build one of the biggest hockey brands in hockey and sports.
PH: What is it like doing Game Notes with Colby Armstrong? How did the idea for that show come about and what are you looking to provide viewers/listeners?
MM: Game Notes has been a real bonus to my Chiclets work and to do it with my old teammate and longtime friend Colby Armstrong is a dream. I always knew I wanted to have a small hockey gambling show, but when Army came on board with Chiclets and we were tasked with developing our own podcast it really took off.
We really just chatted and over time with lots of brainstorming developed what you now know as Game Notes.
PH: We know that you bet on all kinds of hockey. How did you get so good at it and why do you like it so much?
MM: I have played hockey and enjoyed wagering on sports my entire life. The key to success is watching lots of games and of course betting responsibly.
PH: Is there anything else that you would like to share with us hockey fanatics?
MM: Tune into Game Notes and join The Chat and become part of our community.
