Legendary hockey announcer Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick retires from broadcasting after 50 years

Another legendary voice is riding off into the sunset.

Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick, who is known as the voice of hockey in the United States, officially announced that he is retiring for good from announcing NHL games after a historic 50-year career.

“It was 50 years ago this fall, with pen and pad in hand at old Civic Arena in Pittsburgh, I got my first chance to cover the National Hockey League…Gordie Howe was a Red Wing, Bobby Hull was a Blackhawk, Bobby Orr was a Bruin. A time like this makes me recall that we have seen a lot together. The biggest crowd ever, 105,000 at Michigan Stadium. A gold medal game that required overtime between the two North American powers in Vancouver.” said Emrick in a statement.

“Things change over 50 years, but much of what I love is unchanged from then to now and into the years ahead. I still get chills seeing the Stanley Cup. I especially love when the horn sounds, and one team has won and another team hasn’t, all hostility can dissolve into the timeless great display of sportsmanship — the handshake line. I leave you with sincere thanks.”

Along with being a Hockey Hall of Famer, the 74-year old has been the recipient of many awards throughout his career. He has won
eight Emmy awards in the Outstanding Sports Personality – Play-by-Play category, and the Foster Hewitt Award in 2008.