BBC Sports presenter Natalie Pirks has revealed how a message from her four-year-old daughter ‘burned in my memory’ is behind her decision to quit broadcasting after 13 years.
Pirks took to Instagram on Tuesday to reveal that she is walking away from her globetrotting role after a hugely successful stint with the corporation, in which she has covered four World Cups and four Olympic Games.
In a reflective post, she shared how an eye-opening drawing by her four-year-old left an indelible impression on her, and discussed her desire to be more present for the important moments.
‘In two weeks I’m leaving the job I always dreamed of having,’ she wrote.
‘Here’s why: Twenty-plus years in broadcasting, four World Cups, four Olympic Games, countless major finals. By every measure, I made it. But my daughter once drew a picture of me that is burned in my memory.’
Natalie Pirks says she is leaving BBC Sport after 13 years with the broadcaster
She says a drawing by her four-year-old daughter is ‘burned in my memory’
The image was a depiction of Pirks on her phone.
‘I was laying down (pregnant) and working on my phone. She was just four years old. And she was right. Successful on paper. Spinning plates in real life. Good at your job but your own harshest critic, missing key moments with your family, wondering if this is really it? I SEE YOU.
‘Here’s what these decades have actually taught me: Your job is the most important of the least important things. I’m running towards balance and presence, using all the skills I’ve learned in 25 years in the media.
‘Have you ever felt like there is a whole other life out there for you? That you are still ambitious and have plenty to give but crave more peace in your work? Let me know in the comments if I’m not alone and follow if you can relate. The best is just beginning…’
Her post received a flurry of replies, with Sky Sports star Hayley McQueen writing: ‘Absolutely relate but what a role model you have been to your own girls and all those who’ve enjoyed watching you over the years! X’
Fellow BBC star Kelly Somers said: ‘Totally, totally relate!!! Will never forget standing with you in a mixed zone in Russia and you talking about your girls at home and thinking what an amazing role model you were for them. Congrats on an incredible stint and doing what’s best for you and them. ❤️’
Laura Woods added: ‘RELATE x 1000000000 well done Nat, this is amazing xxx’
Sky star Bianca Westwood said: ‘I 100% felt like that & I don’t even have kids! I needed a slower pace, more meaningful time spent, and not having to answer to men! Good luck in your next phase I’m sure it’ll be amazing x’
Fellow presenter Angus Scott said: ‘You are absolutely right. Whether you are female or male it’s about balance and we often get it wrong.
‘We are devoted to our work, but work never recognises that in return. We are devoted to our families, and they will recognise that – if we are present. We all get sucked in to this “glamorous” world – but it’s only telly.
‘Well played Nat and congrats on making a great choice.’
