Aaron Ward’s Media Career

Putting himself out there, both on television and amid the ever-burgeoning world of social media, Ward has quickly learned that people get passionate when their heroes are questioned.

“I have a lot more respect for what you guys do now,” Ward, 38, said of members of the media, counting himself among that group. “I never realized the abuse you have to put up with.

“It’s nothing like that when you’re a player. People like you. But once you get out there and start stating your opinion on things, it’s open season. And people can get pretty nasty.”