Longtime play-by-play commentator Jim Hughson announces his retirement

It's the end of an era for Canadian hockey broadcasting. After a 42-year career as a play-by-play announcer, Jim Hughson has announced his retirement.

"It's been a fantastic run and I'd like to thank Sportsnet, Hockey Night in Canada and all my friends and colleagues over the years for the tremendous support and countless memories," said Hughson. "This is a decision I made in consultation with my family and I'm very much at peace with it. My only goal in this industry was to work at the highest level and on the last day of the season. I've had that opportunity a number of times and will always be grateful for it."

The Fort St. John, British Columbia native started his illustrious career in 1979 when he joined radio broadcasts for the Vancouver Canucks. He then joined TSN for national broadcasts from 1987 to 1994.

In 1998, he was hired by Sportsnet for their national broadcasts until 2005 when he joined up with CBC and Hockey Night in Canada, a role which most people will remember him from. During his career he called multiple All-star games, Winter Classics, Stanley Cup Finals, and Olympic Games.

In 2019, Hughson was given the Foster Hewitt Award which is given annually to a member of the hockey broadcasting community.

One of my favourite calls from Hughson's career was Alex Burrows' overtime goal in game seven to eliminate the Chicago Blackhawks in 2011.

"..Burrows shoots...SCOREEESSSSSS....Finally, after three seasons and nineteen playoff games against Chicago, for Vancouver, it's a wonderful day for an exorcism."

Best of luck to Jim in his retirement.

After 42 years, Hall of Fame PxP commentator Jim Hughson has announced his retirement from broadcasting.

As one of Canada's iconic hockey voices, Jim leaves a lasting legacy at @Sportsnet & across the entire broadcasting industry.

Thank you Jim! 💫

➡️ https://t.co/pbFrpF43Ko pic.twitter.com/JS17MzGWWD— Sportsnet PR (@SportsnetPR) September 21, 2021

Source: Sportsnet PR

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