TSN has announced that sportscaster Rod Black is leaving the network after three decades and a 40-year career in sports media.
Hailing from Winnipeg, Black studied Creative Communications at Red River College before starting his career at CKY-TV Winnipeg, the local CTV affiliate where he hosted Winnipeg Jets broadcasts and CKY Sports Sunday, among other programming.
A five-time Gemini Award nominee, Black’s extensive resume includes play-by-play for the CFL on TSN, as well as hosting golf, the NBA on TSN, international hockey, and figure skating. He’s been part of the part of the broadcast team for numerous Olympic games, including gymnastics at the London Summer Olympics, figure skating and short-track speed skating at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, in addition to covering the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, the 1994 Winter Games in Lillehammer and the 1992 Summer Games in Barcelona. Black also did a turn as a co-host on Canada AM.
“I’ve been a broadcaster for almost 40 years, with over 30 of those spent with the Bell Media family, and have had a front row seat to some of the most magical moments in sport,” said Black, in a Bell Media press release. “I’ve had the chance to travel the world, but more importantly I’ve been able to cover this country from coast-to-coast-to-coast. I will miss the network, and particularly those who have sat beside me and worked with me during all of the incredible events we’ve covered. I can’t extend my thanks enough to all those who’ve been part of this journey. I’m so excited for the next chapter, which will be the most exciting chapter of all.”
“Rod has been an unforgettable and consistent presence on TSN, with a deep sports knowledge that has allowed him to seamlessly transition between hosting duties and calling games, from football to figure skating to basketball, and more,” said Stewart Johnston, Senior VP, Sales and Sports, Bell Media. “An exceptional broadcaster with a heart of gold, Rod has tirelessly dedicated so much of his time to charitable work and various causes, including his incredible support of the Special Olympics. While we’ll miss him behind the desk and in the booth, we are grateful for his time with the network and wish him nothing but the best.”
Black, 59, was named Outstanding Sports Broadcaster at the Sports Media Canada Awards in 2005. He’s also dedicated his time to a number of causes as the honorary spokesperson for Plan International Canada, in addition to supporting Special Olympics Canada. He was recognized with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in both 2012 and 2002 for his volunteer work.
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