As a young teen, Matéo Pérusse-Shortte helped break the ice for other BIPOC hockey players. Now he’s a passionate football player with dreams of becoming a sports broadcaster.
After Matéo Pérusse-Shortte lost his father last year, the Foundation Year Program student felt strongly about he wanted to do: “I decided to follow in his footsteps and go into journalism.”
Pérusse-Shortte was 13 when he first understood the power of finding community via the media, after he and his mother Moashella Shortte were featured on CBC News speaking out about the racism he faced playing hockey in Montreal. The segment was met with an outpouring of support that showed him he wasn’t alone. “It felt good to get my voice out there. After it was broadcast, my mom received messages from people saying, ‘thank you for talking about this and shedding light on it.’ Some people felt like they were alone in that situation.” Shortte-Pérusse and his mother started a hockey diversity group to help BIPOC players feel less isolated, and to serve as a resource for coaches wanting to support their Black players.
Telling his mom that he had received the Gordon Earle Scholarship was deeply emotional for them both, says Pérusse-Shortte. “She cried. She was full of joy.”
The scholarship, named for the trailblazing African Nova Scotian, Dr. Gordon Sinclair Earle, BA’63, DCL’22, was created to assist Black students in achieving their educational goals, but Dr. Earle says it goes deeper than supporting their financial needs. “This scholarship will signal to its recipients that we care for you, we love you, and we will work together with you, as we build a better world where no one is left behind.”
Although he’s hung up his hockey skates, Pérusse-Shortte now plays football, taking advantage of the recent change that allows King’s students to play for Dalhousie. With the Tigers’ season now finished, he’s looking forward to getting more involved with the Black Student Society and extracurriculars.
If you could commentate any game ever—any sport, past or future—which are you calling?
The 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France. It was an incredible, back-and-forth match that had me on the edge of my seat.
Who’s your ultimate sports broadcasting icon?
Mike Emrick, also known as Doc Emrick. Growing up in Quebec where hockey is huge, his voice was a constant presence. He truly defined hockey commentary for me.
What separates a good broadcaster from a great one?
A depth of knowledge about the sport and the players, and a recognizable voice, whether it’s a unique accent, a certain tone or a special quality that makes them stand out.
Dream gig: sideline reporter, in the booth or hosting the post-game show?
A blend of everything. I really look up to Omar Raja and Shams Charania, who are big in the NBA space. They do it all: appear in the booth, conduct postgame interviews, and have a strong social media presence. I’d love to have that same kind of versatility.
What do Classics and sports have in common?
Both stand the test of time and continue to evoke strong emotions from their audiences. Whether it’s a timeless piece of literature, a classic painting, or an iconic sports event, they all have a lasting impact.
Inset photo left to right: Moashella Shortte, Mateo Pérusse-Shortte, Siena Pérusse-Shortte, provided by Matéo Pérusse-Shortte
