Sportsnet names new play-by-play voice for Calgary Flames

There will be a new man calling Calgary Flames games this season.

Sportsnet announced on Monday that Jon Abbott has been named the new play-by-play voice of the Flames.

“The hockey world is a small one and often provides full circle moments,” Abbott said in a statement. “Growing up in Aylmer, Ont., my minor-hockey team was named the Flames because of funding provided by a former owner of the Calgary Flames, the late Harley Hotchkiss.

“Mr. Hotchkiss was from the neighbouring community of Tillsonburg, and just as the Flames ownership continues to do today, he always supported his community through his love for the game. It is an honour to join both the Sportsnet and Flames families over 30 years later, and I look forward to many years of great hockey memories in Calgary.”

Abbott will team up with game analysts Kelly Hrudey and Greg Millen in the booth, with host Ryan Leslie providing updates from ice level.

Abbott started his broadcasting career with Rogers TV. Over 24 years of experience, Abbott has covered key moments in the NHL, CHL, AHL, World Junior Hockey Championship, World Men’s Hockey Championship, and Olympics.

He joins the Flames’ regional broadcasts after spending time covering the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks and Ottawa Senators.

“Jon Abbott is a fantastic addition to the Flames on Sportsnet broadcast booth, especially as we begin our new 11-year regional broadcast partnership with Calgary,” said Rob Corte, vice president of Sportsnet and NHL Production. “His passion for hockey and this industry is infectious. Sportsnet is proud and excited to have Jon, Kelly, Greg, and Ryan bring all the great action of a new season to Flames fans.”

The Flames open the regular season on Oct. 9 against the Canucks.