The Columbus Blue Jackets announced the addition of veteran NHL broadcaster Steve Mears as their new television play-by-play announcer. He takes over for Jeff Rimer, who retired after 20 years with the team at the end of the 2023-24 season. Mears will join Jody Shelley as color analyst for all televised games on Bally Sports Ohio.
Mears, 44, is a graduate of Bowling Green State University and spent the past seven seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins, calling games on both radio and television. Prior to that he spent five seasons with the NHL Network.
“Steve Mears brings a wealth of experience having broadcast games to regional, national and international audiences for nearly two decades and we are excited to have him join Jody Shelley to deliver Blue Jackets hockey to our fans,” said Blue Jackets Vice President of Business Intelligence and Broadcasting Marc Gregory in a release. “Much like his predecessor Jeff Rimer, Steve has a deep level of knowledge and enthusiastic dedication to our game which is evident every time he broadcasts a game.”
“It’s truly an honor for me, and I’m extremely grateful to have the opportunity to call games for The 5th Line as the television play-by-play announcer for the Columbus Blue Jackets,” said Mears. “I’ve seen first-hand for many years, as far back as when I attended games as a student at Bowling Green, how loyal and passionate Blue Jackets fans are and how special game nights at Nationwide Arena can be. With a great core of young, talented players, I can’t wait for the season to start and to work with Jody Shelley and our production team at Bally Sports Ohio.”
“Steve Mears is an accomplished broadcaster whose passion and excitement for the National Hockey League and its players is on full display when he is in the broadcast booth,” said Randy Stephens, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Bally Sports Ohio. “We are excited to welcome him and believe he will be a great addition to our Emmy Award-winning coverage of Blue Jackets hockey on Bally Sports Ohio.”
