In a heartfelt announcement last night, the legendary NHL play-by-play announcer, John Garrett, revealed his decision to retire from broadcasting after an illustrious career spanning four decades. Known for his encyclopedic knowledge of the game, quick wit, and unmistakable voice, Garrett has been an integral part of the hockey community since he first stepped into the booth in the 1980s. As fans and colleagues alike pay tribute to his storied career, it’s clear that Garrett’s impact on the sport of hockey is immeasurable.
Over the years, Garrett has provided commentary for countless memorable moments in NHL history, offering keen insights and colorful anecdotes that have helped make the game accessible and engaging for both casual and die-hard fans. His passion for the sport and enthusiasm for storytelling have made him a beloved figure in the hockey world. Garrett’s rapport with his fellow broadcasters has not only created enjoyable on-air dynamics but also fostered genuine friendships that extend beyond the rink.
As John Garrett takes his final bow in the broadcast booth, the NHL and its fans will surely miss his remarkable presence and expertise. His retirement leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered and celebrated for years to come. The next generation of play-by-play announcers will have big shoes to fill, as they strive to carry on the tradition of excellence that Garrett has exemplified throughout his career. We wish John Garrett all the best in his retirement and thank him for the countless memories and contributions he has made to the sport we all love.
As we wrote about here, as the legends start to ride off into the sunset, who will replace them becomes more and more important.
John Garrett is one of the kindest people I’ve met in my five years on the beat.
Always happy to see you, always happy to tell a story, even if he’d told it a hundred times. Always ready to give a bit of ‘here’s what they’re thinking’ insight.
We’ll always have his hockey card. pic.twitter.com/2bJ9fg6NDe
— Patrick Johnston (@risingaction) March 24, 2023
In a separate but equally impactful announcement, Steve Coates, the esteemed play-by-play announcer for the Philadelphia Flyers, has also declared his retirement from broadcasting. For more than three decades, Coates has been the unmistakable voice behind the microphone for Flyers fans, effortlessly conveying the excitement, tension, and drama that encapsulates the sport of hockey. Known for his exceptional knowledge of the game and his genuine love for the Flyers, Coates has masterfully painted vivid pictures of the on-ice action for countless listeners, making him a beloved figure in the City of Brotherly Love. Through the years, Coates has been a witness to the highs and lows of the franchise, chronicling the team’s most triumphant victories and heartbreaking losses. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his distinct storytelling ability, has made him an irreplaceable fixture in the Philadelphia sports landscape. As Steve Coates hangs up his headset, the Flyers and their dedicated fanbase will undoubtedly feel the void left by his departure. However, his contributions to the team and the sport will live on, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of broadcasters who endeavor to capture the spirit of hockey as masterfully as Coates did during his remarkable tenure.
Congrats on an amazing career, Coatesy!
Steve Coates, legendary broadcaster and beloved member of the Philadelphia Flyers, has announced his retirement from broadcasting after 43 years of service to the organization. https://t.co/Na8fWtN0aU
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) March 24, 2023
Some are trying to make a news story out of a non-news story in my opinion. Yes, Bob McKenzie while “retired” does still appear on TSN earning a paycheck. However, his son does the same thing for the competitor and I would imagine that Bob appreciates the fact that there are opportunities out there for his kids in the industry regardless of the competitive nature of the industry.
If you haven’t seen it, below is the post I am referring to.
Here is my take: First and foremost, it’s funny and we all, with all due respect need to lighten up. Second, it’s family. Third, my take is that the powers that be at TSN fully trust Bob and know the respect he has for the brand and they would see this for what it is. An industry veteran asked me, however, if Bob worked at Sportsnet and Shawn at TSN and this happened, would Sportsnet take this quietly?
In this instance, this is not a story. Perhaps some folks need to drink some of Bob’s tequila!
Those tourists will get ya, @ShawnMcKenzieSN 😉 pic.twitter.com/OQ8168wSZS
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) March 23, 2023
Quiet to the public eye, there is a Canadian company making noise in the digital sports space we should be watching.
We’re pleased to report record Q4 & FY 2022 revenue & profitability. Thank you to our incredible teams and outstanding partners, and the loyal sports fans that engage with our content daily. @FutbolSites @yardbarker @nationnetworkhq 🚨🚨🚨https://t.co/4ycnWGTjSl
— Playmaker Capital (@playmaker_fans) March 20, 2023
You Wanted Attention?:
“I wish the Staal brothers and Reimer would have heard out this young queer person and their love of hockey and understood the pure hurt it could generate in them to see these NHLers opt out of Pride nights — and to know the reasoning behind it.
I don’t quite understand how Christian beliefs translate into not wanting to put some members of a community on a level playing field.” Pierre LeBrun in The Athletic
The issue of players not wanting to wear a jersey or tape during a team sponsored pre game warm up is heating as certain players are tapping out themselves. This has led to hockey media members to chime in including Pierre LeBrun and Tara Slone who now works for the San Jose Sharks
.@TaraSlone and @BrodieNBCS discuss James Reimer not wearing a Pride jersey during warm-ups pic.twitter.com/uqxz3wRn2A
— Sharks on NBCS (@NBCSSharks) March 19, 2023
Who has you can see took to the air amdist one of these “episodes”.
Regardless of what side you are on, this issue is not going away. That is for sure.
The NHL and especially it’s fans seem to crave attention and exposure from south of the border and well, they are getting it now aren’t they!
His math doesn’t add up. This is not about Christian beliefs, this is about his fear.
Jesus said “Love your neighbor as yourself” and then died for all of us because none of us are sinless.
Love does not demand it’s own way. This isn’t Love. https://t.co/UoSOEPFhHa
— Doug Baldwin Jr 🌹 (@DougBaldwinJr) March 20, 2023
Here’s a really good review of some of the coverage before the Panther’s “incident” last night.
I think, and it’s my own opinion that the most rationale take on this was from Brian Burke:
A statement from Brian Burke after James Reimer refused to wear the Sharks’ Pride Night warmup jersey. pic.twitter.com/TFYetnQdZU
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) March 20, 2023
Pressrow:
In the latest episode of “In the Pressrow,” join me in a captivating conversation with veteran NHL linesman Vaughan Rody. This episode provides a unique glimpse into the life of an NHL official as Rody shares his journey in the world of professional hockey, personal anecdotes, and the challenges and camaraderie of being an NHL linesman and why did the goalie fight this week get stopped!
Highlights and Quotes with Timestamps:
- [05:12] Rody discusses his path to becoming an NHL linesman: “I’ve always loved the game and wanted to contribute to its integrity and fairness.”
- [13:25] Rody shares the challenges of being an NHL official: “Every night, we step on the ice with the goal of giving our best for the game we love.”
- [21:50] Rody delves into the camaraderie among officials: “We have each other’s backs. We’re a tight-knit group, just like the players.”
- [33:15] Rody recounts a memorable moment from his career: “That game-winning goal in triple overtime still gives me chills when I think about it.”
- [42:02] Rody speaks about the importance of maintaining the game’s integrity: “As officials, our job is to ensure that the players can showcase their skills in a fair and safe environment.”
Don’t miss this insightful episode with Vaughan Rody on “In the Pressrow.” It’s a must-listen for hockey fans who want to explore the often underappreciated
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Born and raised in Toronto, Jonah Sigel is currently based in Seattle, WA. An avid sports fan, Jonah took to writing about the sports media world back in 2004 with two young kids at home, a new job and a return to Toronto. The interest grew and grew to include the former website Torontosportsmedia.com, the twitter handle @yyzsportsmedia, the PressRow podcast and now the all new yyzsportsmedia.com
