Shawn Simpson has been named as the new permanent morning co-host on TSN 1200 (CFGO-AM) Ottawa following a tumultuous week for the TSN Radio outlets in both the nation’s capital and Vancouver.
Simpson will host the morning show alongside John “JR” Rodenburg, who also serves as the station’s program director, and Matt Hamer, weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m. ET.
“I’m certain that JR, Matt, and I will have spirited daily debates on the subjects that matter most to Ottawa sports fans, from the Sens to the Redblacks and beyond. As a former hockey player and NHL executive, Shawn brings a unique perspective on the sports world, and we’re very excited to have him join our new morning lineup,” said Rodenburg, in a press release.
Simpson has been with the station since 2012, co-hosting “The Drive,” initially with Dave Gross when the station was branded as The Team 1200, and later Ian Mendes, starting in late 2013.
His appointment comes following cuts last week that included morning co-host Steve Warne, who had been with the station for 19 years; producer James Abson, a 20-year employee; and morning Sportscentre anchor Dean Roberts, who’d been with TSN and sister station 580 CFRA, since 1996. Staff on the morning show at the station’s Vancouver counterpart were also impacted.
A 1986 draft pick of the Washington Capitals, Simpson joined the Capitals’ television network as a colour commentator after retiring due to an injury. He later served as a scout for the Capitals and in 1997 was promoted to Director of Hockey Operations, and GM of the AHL’s Portland Pirates, the team’s main affiliate. He joined the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2004 as a scout. Simpson was let go as part of a 2008 shake-up in the organization and went on to oversee operations for the HC Dinamo Minsk (KHL) and Cape Cod Cubs (IJHL).
TSN 1200’s weekday lineup is rounded out by In The Box, with co-hosts Steve Lloyd and Todd White, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET. Lee Versage will join Ian Mendes on The Drive, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
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