The Chicago Blackhawks announced today that Rick Ball has been chosen as the team’s new television play-by-play announcer. Beginning in the 2024-25 season, Ball will join color analyst Darren Pang in the broadcast booth, representing the Blackhawks on the upcoming Chicago Sports Network, their new television outlet. Ball replaces Chris Vosters who is out after two seasons with the Blackhawks.
Ball, 57, spent a decade as the TV play-by-play commentator for the Calgary Flames on Sportsnet. In addition, he also called Hockey Night in Canada’s nationwide broadcasts starting in 2011. He was then promoted to lead Western play-by-play announcer in 2013.
“We are delighted to have Rick join the Blackhawks broadcast booth alongside Darren Pang as we begin this exciting new chapter in Blackhawks television with our new broadcast venture, Chicago Sports Network,” said President of Business Operations Jaime Faulkner in a release. “An established voice in the hockey world, Rick brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our broadcasts. Coupled with Darren’s exceptional energy and expertise, we believe we are providing Blackhawks fans with the best in-home watching experience in the NHL.
“We would also like to thank Chris Vosters for his time as play-by-play announcer, and we look forward to continuing discussions surrounding opportunities with our new network. Chris is a phenomenal broadcaster with a big career ahead of him, and we are excited for him to continue to showcase his immense talent through his content with Stadium as well as his broadcasting work with other national, multi-sport entities,” added Faulkner.
“I am thrilled to join the Chicago Blackhawks broadcast booth at such a monumental time in the organization’s history. My family and I are extremely grateful to the Wirtz family for giving me the opportunity to join such a storied franchise. It will truly be an honor to call games for an Original Six team and to work with someone as incredibly talented and respected as Darren Pang,” said Ball.
