The iconic voice of Hockey Night in Canada, broadcasting NHL games to millions of Canadians for over 40 years, creating a sense of national pride and community.
Foster Hewitt was a Canadian radio broadcaster best known for his iconic play-by-play calls for Hockey Night in Canada, a legacy that spanned over four decades. His distinctive voice and enthusiastic commentary style made him a beloved figure in Canadian sports, earning him the nickname "The Dean of Canadian Hockey Broadcasters."
Born on November 21, 1902, in Toronto, Ontario, Hewitt attended Upper Canada College and the University of Toronto, where he was a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. A champion boxer in his student years, Hewitt won the intercollegiate title at 112 pounds, showcasing his competitive spirit early on.
Hewitt's fascination with radio began as a teenager, when he accompanied his father, W.A. Hewitt, to a demonstration of radio technology sponsored by General Electric in Detroit, Michigan. This sparked a passion that would lead him to become a reporter at the Toronto Daily Star, where his father was the sports editor. When the Star launched its own radio station, CFCA, Hewitt was ready to go on the air, marking the beginning of his broadcasting career.
CfCA's first hockey broadcast took place on February 8, 1923, although it was colleague Norman Albert who performed the play-by-play. Hewitt's first broadcast likely occurred on February 16, 1923, covering a game between the Toronto Argonaut Rowing Club and the Kitchener Greenshirts. He went on to make history by broadcasting the first horse race on May 24, 1925, alongside his father, and was invited as a guest announcer to broadcast the first game from the new Detroit Olympia in 1927.
Hewitt's contributions to hockey broadcasting earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1965, the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame in 1977, and the Canadian Broadcast Hall of Fame in 1983. He was also awarded the Order of Canada in 1972, the country's highest civilian honor.
Hewitt was the father of Bill Hewitt, also a well-known sports broadcaster. He passed away on April 21, 1985, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of hockey fans and broadcasters.
Hewitt's iconic phrases, such as "He shoots, he scores!" and "Hello, Canada, and hockey fans in the United States and Newfoundland!", are still remembered fondly by hockey enthusiasts today.
Hewitt's broadcasting career spanned a pivotal period in Canadian history, from the Great Depression to the post-war era. His play-by-play calls helped shape the nation's love for hockey, cementing Hockey Night in Canada as an integral part of Canadian culture.
Foster Hewitt's enduring legacy continues to inspire hockey fans and broadcasters alike, solidifying his place as one of the most iconic voices in Canadian sports history.
92 Years Old
Legendary hockey play-by-play announcer, known for his iconic voice and calls during NHL games, particularly for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Hockey Night in Canada.
56 Years Old
Former UCLA basketball star and NCAA champion turned popular sportscaster, known for his charismatic commentary and analysis on ESPN and other networks.
92 Years Old
A Canadian hockey legend who played, coached, and commentated on the sport, known for his outspoken and colorful personality on air. He's a beloved figure in Canadian hockey culture.
65 Years Old
The greatest hockey player of all time, holding numerous records, including most career goals and assists, and leading his team to four Stanley Cup championships. A legendary athlete and iconic figure in the sport.
98 Years Old
Legendary hockey player known for his incredible on-ice longevity, playing professionally until age 52, and scoring over 800 goals in his career.
60 Years Old
A legendary hockey player who won two Stanley Cups and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, known for his incredible on-ice skills and overcoming health issues to dominate the sport.
38 Years Old
A highly skilled and dominant center in the National Hockey League, leading the Pittsburgh Penguins to multiple championships and earning numerous individual awards. Regarded by many as one of the greatest players of all time.
