TORONTO – TSN announced today Rod Black is leaving the network after more than 30 years at Bell Media.
Black is known as the voice of CFL on TSN and as the host of NBA on TSN. Among other things, he has also covered figure skating and has provided commentary and play-by-play for numerous Olympic events.
“His knowledge, versatility, and enthusiasm have earned him the reputation as one of Canada’s most recognized and distinguished sportscasters,” a press release says.
“Rod has been an unforgettable and consistent presence on TSN, with a deep sports knowledge that has allowed him to seamlessly transition between hosting duties and calling games, from football to figure skating to basketball, and more,” said Stewart Johnston, senior vice-president of sales and sports at Bell Media, in the press release.
“An exceptional broadcaster with a heart of gold, Rod has tirelessly dedicated so much of his time to charitable work and various causes, including his incredible support of the Special Olympics. While we’ll miss him behind the desk and in the booth, we are grateful for his time with the network and wish him nothing but the best.”
Black is a recipient of the Sports Media Canada Award for Outstanding Sports Broadcaster and received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 and 2002 for his volunteer work. His broadcasting career spans nearly 40 years.
“I’ve had the chance to travel the world, but more importantly I’ve been able to cover this country from coast-to-coast-to-coast,” Black said in the press release.
“I will miss the network, and particularly those who have sat beside me and worked with me during all of the incredible events we’ve covered. I can’t extend my thanks enough to all those who’ve been part of this journey. I’m so excited for the next chapter, which will be the most exciting chapter of all.”
On an episode of the Toronto Mike’d podcast posted today, Black said his exit from TSN has been in the works for a while now and is effective immediately.
Image supplied by Bell Media.
