Stepping Up to the Mic: NHL Players Train for Broadcasting Careers

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Sam Jones
July 25, 2024 (9:51)

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On July 17th, in the heart of New York City, an all-day event unlike any other unfolded for nine NHL athletes-both current and former players.

Hosted by TNT and spearheaded by renowned commentators Kenny Albert, Eddie Olczyk, and Brian Boucher, the NHL broadcast training camp offered a unique glimpse into the world of sports media.

The transformative day was packed with activities aimed at preparing participants for various aspects of sports broadcasting. From game preparation and analysis to mastering studio dynamics and navigating the digital world of social media and podcasting, the camp served as a comprehensive introduction to the other side of the camera lens.

Among the attendees was Garnet Hathaway, a seasoned NHL forward with years of on-ice experience. Hathaway, who recently inked a two-year contract extension, shared his thoughts on the transition from player to potential broadcaster.

"The more years that I've been playing and knowing that inevitably I'm going to stop playing at some point, I don't think there's any problem with trying to figure out what interests me after hockey," Hathaway said. "I think the big thing for me is, will it be in hockey or will it not be? So, this is an awesome opportunity to see what the other side is."

The camp also featured other notable NHL names including Chris Wagner, Louis Domingue, DeVante Smith-Pelly, Nate Thompson, Michael del Zotto, Darius Kasparaitis, Eric Johnson, and Ryan Kesler. Each player brought their unique perspectives and experiences, enriching the learning environment.

Eric Johnson, another participant, emphasized the intensive nature of sports broadcasting.

"The biggest thing for me would be all the notes and research that goes into this," Johnson explained. "You talk to them and if they're doing a Dallas-Edmonton [game], they're watching that team's previous two games to get ready, to prep for that current game. They have years and years of notes and stats. To say they're professionals is probably an understatement."

This training camp not only enhances personal growth for the players but also sets a precedent for the kind of post-career opportunities that await athletes. It's a testament to the NHL's commitment to supporting its players beyond their playing days, fostering a community where knowledge and passion for hockey continue to thrive in new and exciting ways. As more players consider their futures, events like this could become crucial stepping stones in their transition from ice to the studio.

Source: NHL.com

NHL Broadcast Training Camp gives players glimpse into on-air production