Steve Mears, a Pittsburgh native, has decided to depart from his role as the play-by-play announcer for the Pittsburgh Penguins radio broadcasts. He announced his move via Twitter, revealing that he will be taking on a new position as the television play-by-play broadcaster for the Columbus Blue Jackets. This transition marks a significant shift in Mears’ career, returning him to television broadcasting after a tenure in radio.
Mears’ journey to his dream job began in 2017 when he first secured the coveted position of TV play-by-play announcer for the Pittsburgh Penguins. His return to Pittsburgh, where he graduated from Franklin Regional High School, was celebrated by fans and colleagues alike. Over six seasons, Mears became known for his smooth and engaging delivery, becoming a familiar voice to Penguins supporters during their televised games.
Last summer, organizational changes within the Penguins’ media team led to Mears and radio announcer Josh Getzoff switching roles. Despite returning to the radio side, Mears continued to receive positive feedback for his broadcasts. This move marked his second stint in Penguins radio, having previously contributed to both the Penguins radio network and the Penguins 24/7 network from 2009 to 2012, before departing for the NHL Network. His comeback for the 2017-18 season was warmly welcomed by fans who appreciated his professional style and deep knowledge of the game.
In joining the Columbus Blue Jackets as their new TV play-by-play broadcaster, Mears expressed immense excitement and gratitude. He acknowledged the honor of joining a highly-regarded organization like the Blue Jackets and emphasized his eagerness to cover the team in his new role. Returning to Ohio, where he will be based, adds a personal touch to this career move for Mears.
Throughout his career, Steve Mears has demonstrated versatility and a deep passion for hockey broadcasting. His experience spans across various media platforms, from radio to television, and includes notable contributions to both local and national broadcasts. His departure from the Penguins radio booth signifies the end of an era for Pittsburgh fans who have grown accustomed to his distinctive voice and insightful commentary.
Looking forward, Mears’ transition to the Columbus Blue Jackets promises to bring renewed energy to their broadcasts. His established reputation for delivering engaging play-by-play coverage will undoubtedly enhance the viewing experience for Blue Jackets fans. As Mears embarks on this new chapter in his broadcasting career, his move to Columbus represents not only a professional advancement but also a return to his roots in television broadcasting.
