A MENTOR TO MANY
by Andrew Paschalidis
Ex SBS & Fox Sports Broadcaster
Current Indian Super League Commentator
Harry Michaels OAM is a visionary in the Australian
broadcasting landscape but also a mentor to so many desperate to forge a career
in the Media.
I first met Harry in 1984 as a rookie commentator at SBS
Television.
Harry’s company Harry Michaels Productions which would
evolve into Zero1Zero was the sole provider for all football broadcasts on SBS
Television.
Within 18 months Harry employed me as a presenter in the
innovative new SBS football show Soccerama which was hosted by SBS legend Les
Murray.
It was the start of a lifetime friendship.
By the end of 1986 I was host of Sports Report Australia
- the first National sport show on Australian Television. I was only 24yo.
Harry - like so many other people he has met in the
industry - would become a key mentor.
Our bond grew stronger as I continued to take huge steps
at SBS as we both worked on the National Soccer League competition as well as
Socceroos international games and World Youth Cup tournaments.
Harry’s experience in the industry is second to none.
His eye for detail and delivery of product is
exceptional.
Many of us who have forged careers in the competitive
media landscape in Australia owe Harry a debt of gratitude.
Then again Harry doesn’t expect accolades preferring to
see the fruits of his labour continue to excel
