Boston Bruins Announcer Jack Edwards to Retire After 19 Seasons

Jack Edwards, the longtime play-by-play announcer for the Boston Bruins on NESN, has announced his retirement after 19 years in the role. The 67-year-old New Hampshire native, who described the position as his "dream job," will continue calling Bruins games through the end of the 2023-24 playoffs before stepping down.

Edwards, a graduate of the University of New Hampshire, began his career with NESN in 2005 after spending over a decade at ESPN. Known for his passionate and energetic style, he became a fixture of Bruins broadcasts, with phrases like "tumbling muffin" and "high above the ice" becoming part of the team's fan lexicon.

Why this matters: Edwards' retirement marks the end of an era for Bruins fans, who have grown accustomed to his distinctive voice and enthusiastic calls over the past two decades. His departure will leave big shoes to fill as NESN searches for a new play-by-play announcer to carry on the team's broadcasting legacy.

In recent years, Edwards has struggled with slowed speech, for which he has received therapy. Despite these challenges, he remained committed to his role and was recognized before the Bruins' final regular-season game against the Ottawa Senators, where he was presented with a golden stick in honor of his nearly two decades with the team.

Bruins coach Jim Montgomery praised Edwards as a "Bruins icon" and a "big part of the Black and Gold's tradition," while CEO Charlie Jacobs acknowledged the tremendous value of his career and legacy with the organization.

Edwards, who grew up as a Bruins fan, expressed his own appreciation for the opportunity to cover the team, stating, "I had more fun than us over the last two decades." He thanked his family, the Bruins, and NESN for their support throughout his 45-year broadcasting career.

The Bruins and NESN will conduct a nationwide search for Edwards' replacement to join color commentator Andy Brickley starting in the 2024-25 season. They plan to further celebrate Edwards' impact during the upcoming regular season.

As Edwards prepares to call his final games during the Bruins' playoff run, fans and colleagues alike are reflecting on his lasting impact on the team's broadcasting history. His retirement, while bittersweet, serves as a reminder of the passion and dedication he brought to his craft over the past 19 years.

Key Takeaways

• Jack Edwards, Bruins' play-by-play announcer, to retire after 2023-24 playoffs.
• Edwards, known for his passionate style, has been with NESN for 19 years.
• Retirement marks end of an era for Bruins fans, who grew accustomed to his voice.
• Edwards has faced speech challenges but remained committed to his role.
• NESN to conduct nationwide search for Edwards' replacement starting 2024-25 season.