After 43 years, Steve Coates is ready to stop calling Flyers hockey. The iconic broadcaster has announced that the 2022-23 season will be his last on Philadelphia radio.
“The Philadelphia Flyers organization is unlike any other in professional sports and it has truly been my honor to have been a part of it for so many years,” Coates said in a statement at NHL.com. “This organization has given me a home and a family. It has led me to forge lifelong relationships and the very best of friendships with everyone I’ve had the privilege to work with along the way. I have too many people to thank over the years for their support and guidance, but none of this would have been possible without the incredible community of Flyers fans that I’ve met, and continue to meet, every single day. Serving as the voice of the team for all my years, the one thing that is undeniable is that the Flyers logo means something special to all of us. For me, it represents a community whose passion for their team is unequalled year after year. You are the heartbeat of this team and I thank you for welcoming me into your lives.”
Steve Coates only played 5 games in the NHL, but spent seven seasons playing professionally in minor leagues as a forward. His broadcasting career began in 1980. Philadelphia Flyers fans first heard his voice radio before moving to the TV broadcast in 1999. He moved back to radio in 2014 and has been the analyst on that broadcast for the last nine years.
“The impact that Steve Coates has had on this organization and in the community has been immeasurable during his 43 year career,” Comcast Spectacor Chairman and Flyers Governor Dave Scott added. “There’s no doubt that Coatesy is one of the sharpest analysts in hockey, whether its breaking down a game, a player, or situation, but his impact on the Flyers has been much greater than that. What makes Coatesy truly unique is his ability to connect with everyone he meets through his infectious and welcoming personality – that’s why he will always be beloved by our players, coaches, and fans. I am lucky to call Coatesy a friend, and he will always be part of the Flyers family.”
The team has plans to honor Coates. There will be a ceremony prior to the team’s April 1st game against Buffalo. No details of the celebration have been released.
