I Love My Job: CBJ national anthem singer Leo Welsh
Every day, people all around Columbus drive/ride/walk to their jobs, eager to contribute their passion and talent to the city. This series aims to highlight those people and give them a platform to spread their love for their careers. Welcome to I Love My Job.
You may not know his face (depending on your seats), but you definitely know his name: LEO! Longtime Columbus Blue Jackets national anthem singer Leo Welsh has been stealing the hearts of hockey-goers at Nationwide Arena with his impressive pipes and passion for the game since 2003.
Here is why he loves his job so much:
614: What do you love most about your job?
LW: The thing I love most about my position with the CBJ is being such a fan and being part of the game experience. It is a total thrill every single time.
614: What parts of your job do you find most challenging?
LW: The most challenging part would have to be maintaining my health during the winter. Hard to sing well when you aren’t feeling your best.
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614: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
LW: The most rewarding aspect is when I am singing and I can see young people singing along to our National Anthem.
614: What’s the best story you have from your time with the Columbus Blue Jackets?
LW: So many great stories and interactions with fans and our military honorees. Most recently the playoffs from last year strand out. The CBJ had a World War II veteran on the ice with me every night. These men were all special and excited the crowd and made it very easy for me to be focused on honoring our country. Several were arm in arm with me and singing along to our National Anthem, very special moments.
614: Who has been the most influential mentor in your career so far?
LW: I have had many great teachers and mentors. Maestro William Boggs stands out. He is one of the reasons I moved to Columbus following graduation from Ohio University. He offered me a job with Opera Columbus. He was critical when he needed to be, demanded preparation from his singers and was supportive by offering examples and best practices at all times. Truly a great mentor.
Leo will be leading players and fans in the national anthem this Friday as the Blue Jackets open their season against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Nationwide Arena. Puck drops at 7pm.
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