Jack Michaels – Edmonton Oilers Celebrates Decade as Iconic Play-by-Play Voice
Jack Michaels has become the unmistakable voice of Edmonton Oilers hockey since he joined the team in 2010. His passionate play-by-play calls and distinctive energy have made him a fan favorite throughout his 15-year stint with the organization. Michaels’ journey to becoming the play-by-play announcer for the Edmonton Oilers included eight seasons calling games for the ECHL’s Alaska Aces before he landed his dream NHL position.
Born on January 23, 1974, Michaels brings an infectious enthusiasm to broadcasts that resonates with hockey fans across Canada. His memorable radio calls during the Oilers’ playoff runs have gone viral, including his electric performance during Game 4 of the Stanley Cup playoffs. The broadcaster’s climb through the ranks represents the kind of perseverance and dedication that mirrors the sport he covers with such precision.
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Early Life and Education
Jack Michaels’ journey to becoming the voice of the Edmonton Oilers began long before he stepped into the broadcast booth. His formative years and educational background laid the foundation for his successful broadcasting career.
Hometown Meadville, Pennsylvania
Contrary to what some might assume, Jack Michaels wasn’t raised in Edmonton or even Canada. He was born and raised in Meadville, Pennsylvania, a small town that helped shape his early perspective on sports and broadcasting. This modest beginning would eventually lead to his remarkable career trajectory.
Meadville served as the launching pad for Michaels’ passion for sports broadcasting. Growing up in Pennsylvania gave him exposure to various sports that would later become central to his professional life.
The small-town upbringing instilled in him the work ethic and determination that would later define his broadcasting style. These formative years in Meadville created the foundation for his distinctive announcing approach.
Ithaca College Graduate
Michaels’ formal education took place at Ithaca College in New York, where he didn’t just attend classes—he excelled. He graduated Magna Cum Laude, demonstrating his academic prowess alongside his broadcasting talents.
During his time at Ithaca, Michaels gained invaluable experience calling various collegiate sports:
- Football
- Basketball
- Baseball
- Hockey
This diverse sports background prepared him for the versatility needed in professional broadcasting. His college years weren’t just about classroom learning—they provided practical experience that would prove essential later.
After graduating in 1995, Michaels began his professional journey, taking the skills honed at Ithaca College and applying them to the real world of sports broadcasting.
Broadcasting Career
Jack Michaels has crafted an impressive broadcasting career spanning from minor league hockey to becoming one of the NHL’s most recognizable voices. His distinctive calling style and deep hockey knowledge have made him a fan favorite among Edmonton Oilers supporters.
Start in Minor League Hockey
Jack Michaels began his professional broadcasting journey in the minor leagues during the late 1990s. He cut his teeth with the Colorado Gold Kings of the WCHL, where he developed his energetic calling style that would later become his trademark.
His career took a significant turn when he joined the Alaska Aces of the ECHL. With the Aces, Michaels honed his craft calling games in one of hockey’s most remote outposts. This experience proved invaluable, allowing him to develop the stamina and versatility needed for professional broadcasting.
During his time in the minors, Michaels handled multiple responsibilities beyond play-by-play, including media relations and marketing duties. These experiences gave him a comprehensive understanding of hockey operations that would serve him well at higher levels.
Rise to Edmonton Oilers’ Radio Voice
In 2010, Michaels made the leap to the NHL when he was hired as the radio play-by-play announcer for the Edmonton Oilers on 630 CHED. This marked a dramatic career advancement, moving from the ECHL directly to one of the NHL’s most storied franchises.
Michaels quickly connected with the passionate Oilers fanbase. His ability to capture the excitement of the game with vivid descriptions and genuine enthusiasm made him an ideal voice for radio broadcasts. Listeners particularly appreciated his encyclopedic knowledge of hockey history and statistics.
Over the next decade, Michaels became synonymous with Oilers radio broadcasts. He called numerous memorable moments, including Connor McDavid’s NHL debut and the team’s return to playoff contention. His consistent excellence earned him widespread respect throughout the hockey broadcasting community.
Transition to Television Play-By-Play
After establishing himself as one of hockey’s premier radio voices, Michaels made the transition to television during the 2020-21 NHL season. He joined Sportsnet as the Oilers’ television play-by-play announcer, bringing his distinctive style to a broader audience.
The move to TV presented new challenges, requiring adjustments to his broadcasting approach. Michaels adapted seamlessly, learning to work with the visual medium while maintaining the energy and detail that had made him successful on radio.
His television work has received positive reviews from critics and fans alike. Michaels has appeared on national broadcasts, including segments for Hockey Night in Canada, furthering his reputation as one of the sport’s premier announcers.
| Broadcasting Role | Team/Network | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Radio Play-by-Play | Colorado Gold Kings (WCHL) | Late 1990s |
| Radio Play-by-Play | Alaska Aces (ECHL) | Early 2000s |
| Radio Play-by-Play | Edmonton Oilers (630 CHED) | 2010-2020 |
| TV Play-by-Play | Edmonton Oilers (Sportsnet) | 2020-present |
Notable Achievements
Jack Michaels has built an impressive career in hockey broadcasting, earning recognition for his exceptional play-by-play skills and reaching significant milestones along his journey with the Edmonton Oilers organization.
Broadcaster of the Year Awards
Before joining the NHL ranks, Michaels established himself as an elite broadcaster in the ECHL. He was twice honored as the league’s Broadcaster of the Year during his tenure with the Alaska Aces. This recognition highlighted his distinctive calling style and deep hockey knowledge.
His talents were further acknowledged when the ECHL selected him to broadcast their annual All-Star Game, showcasing his abilities on a larger stage.
These early accolades helped build Michaels’ reputation and eventually led to his NHL opportunity with the Oilers in 2010, after he had called 919 professional hockey games at lower levels.
Milestone Oilers Broadcasts
Since joining Edmonton, Michaels has called numerous memorable games for the franchise. His energetic style has become synonymous with Oilers hockey during both regular season and playoff broadcasts.
The pinnacle of his career came when he fulfilled a lifelong dream calling Stanley Cup Final games for the Oilers. As a native of Meadville, Pennsylvania, this achievement represented the culmination of a journey that began long before his professional broadcasting career.
In January 2021, Michaels reached another career milestone when he was named the television play-by-play announcer for Edmonton’s regionally televised games, expanding his role within the organization.
Role with the Edmonton Oilers
Jack Michaels has become a cornerstone of the Oilers organization since joining the team in 2010, bringing his energetic play-by-play style to fans across Edmonton and beyond.
Play-By-Play Announcing Style
Michaels has built a reputation for his passionate and distinctive calling style that resonates with Oilers fans. His voice rises with the action, creating memorable calls particularly during Connor McDavid’s highlight-reel moments.
When McDavid scores, Michaels’ intensity matches the captain’s speed—something that has endeared him to the fanbase. His signature phrases and vocal crescendos have become part of the Oilers experience.
Michaels transitioned from radio to television broadcasts on Sportsnet while maintaining his role on 630 CHED radio. This dual presence has expanded his reach across multiple platforms.
His background with the ECHL’s Alaska Aces for eight seasons prepared him well for the NHL stage. Michaels brings technical knowledge and emotional investment to each call, making even routine plays feel significant.
Fan Engagement and Social Media
On Twitter as @EdmontonJack, Michaels has cultivated a substantial following by connecting directly with the Oilers faithful. His account serves as both an information channel and personality showcase.
Michaels’ social media presence extends to Instagram where he shares behind-the-scenes content and interacts with fans. This accessibility has helped cement his status as a fan favorite over his 15-year tenure.
He participates in community events and makes himself available for fan interactions beyond game days. These efforts have transformed him from simply an announcer to a beloved team ambassador.
Michaels regularly engages with fan questions and comments online, creating a two-way relationship that’s rare among major sports broadcasters. This approach has made him nearly as recognizable as some players.
Partnerships and Collaboration
Jack Michaels has built strong working relationships throughout his tenure with the Edmonton Oilers. His collaborative approach with broadcast partners has helped create a seamless listening experience for Oilers fans across radio and television platforms.
Working With Bob Stauffer
Michaels and Bob Stauffer have formed one of hockey’s most dynamic broadcast duos. Their chemistry developed quickly after Michaels joined the Oilers organization in 2010, with Stauffer serving as the color commentator alongside Michaels’ play-by-play.
The pair’s contrasting styles complement each other perfectly. Michaels brings high-energy play calling and sharp attention to on-ice details, while Stauffer contributes deep analytical insights and insider knowledge of the organization.
Their partnership has thrived across multiple platforms. Beyond game broadcasts, they’ve appeared together on pre-game shows and special events, giving fans comprehensive coverage of the team.
When 630 CHED renewed its broadcast partnership with the Oilers, the station emphasized the importance of maintaining this successful pairing for listeners.
Synergy With Broadcast Team
Michaels’ collaborative spirit extends to the entire Oilers broadcast team. When Sportsnet announced Michaels as their lead play-by-play announcer for regional games, it created new partnerships with television analysts.
Working alongside former players like Louie DeBrusk has allowed Michaels to blend his technical knowledge with authentic player perspectives. The transition from radio to television demonstrated his versatility and team-first approach.
The broadcast reorganization also opened opportunities for Cam Moon, who took over radio play-by-play duties while Michaels focused on television coverage. This arrangement showcases the depth of talent in the Oilers broadcast team.
The 25-year partnership between the Oilers and 630 CHED has provided a stable foundation for these broadcasting relationships to flourish, creating consistency for listeners across multiple platforms.
Impact on Sports Broadcasting
Jack Michaels has transformed the Edmonton Oilers broadcast experience through his distinctive style and passionate delivery. His influence extends beyond just calling games to reshaping how hockey is presented to fans across North America.
Contribution to NHL Broadcasting
Michaels has carved out a unique space in NHL broadcasting with his energetic play-by-play style. The near-unanimous support from fans in The Athletic’s 2021 survey of regional NHL broadcasts speaks volumes about his impact.
His approach blends old-school hockey enthusiasm with modern broadcasting techniques. Michaels brings a Mike Lange-like quality to his calls, creating memorable moments that resonate with viewers long after games end.
What sets Michaels apart is his ability to match the energy of the game itself. During intense playoff moments, his voice rises with the crowd, creating a symbiotic relationship between broadcaster and event.
Michaels’ Broadcasting Recognition:
| Achievement | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ECHL Broadcaster of the Year | Twice | During Alaska Aces tenure |
| ECHL All-Star Game Selection | Multiple | Selected to broadcast league showcase |
| Fan Favorite (The Athletic) | 2021 | After first national TV season |
Inspiring Upcoming Broadcasters
Michaels’ journey from small markets to the NHL has become a blueprint for aspiring sports broadcasters. His relentless path from humble beginnings to hockey broadcasting stardom demonstrates the value of persistence.
Young announcers study his technique of building tension and delivering signature calls at perfect moments. His ability to heighten excitement without overwhelming the broadcast is particularly noteworthy.
Broadcasting schools now use Michaels’ calls as teaching examples. His work illustrates how to maintain professionalism while still conveying authentic enthusiasm for the sport.
Many don’t realize how Michaels consistently prepares. He spends hours studying team statistics, player backgrounds, and historical contexts before each broadcast, setting a standard for preparation in the industry.
His influence extends to social media, where clips of his most enthusiastic calls regularly go viral, introducing his style to audiences beyond traditional hockey markets.
Personal Life
Behind the iconic voice of the Edmonton Oilers broadcasts, Jack Michaels balances a fulfilling personal life with his broadcasting career. His family serves as a cornerstone of support while he maintains active involvement in community initiatives.
Family and Interests
Jack Michaels resides in Sherwood Park with his wife Emily and their two children, Callie and Tyler. This suburban Edmonton community provides the Michaels family with a stable home base while Jack travels with the Oilers throughout the NHL season.
Family has always been important to Michaels, who balances the demanding schedule of NHL broadcasting with quality time at home. His commitment to family life demonstrates the grounding influence they provide amid the high-pressure world of professional sports broadcasting.
Michaels has managed to maintain this balance despite the challenges that come with a career that includes extensive travel during the hockey season. His professional journey has included overcoming what some reports describe as difficult family dynamics earlier in his life.
Community Involvement
Michaels has embraced his role as a public figure in Edmonton beyond just calling games. His fifteen-year tenure with the Oilers has allowed him to establish deep roots in the community.
As the fan-favorite voice of the Oilers, Michaels regularly participates in team charity events and community initiatives. He leverages his platform to support various causes throughout Edmonton and the broader Alberta region.
His authentic connection with fans extends beyond the broadcast booth. Michaels frequently makes appearances at community events, youth hockey programs, and fundraisers, contributing to the strong bond between the Oilers organization and its passionate fanbase.
The broadcaster’s willingness to engage with the community has helped cement his status as not just the voice of the team, but as a respected community figure in Edmonton.
Legacy and Influence
Jack Michaels has become an integral part of the Edmonton Oilers organization, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise’s broadcasting history and connecting deeply with fans through his distinctive play-by-play style.
Footprint in Professional Hockey
Michaels’ journey to becoming the voice of the Edmonton Oilers spans over 15 years with the organization. His rise from small-town Western Pennsylvania to NHL broadcaster showcases remarkable persistence in the industry.
Before joining the Oilers in 2010, Michaels spent eight seasons as the play-by-play announcer for the ECHL’s Alaska Aces, building the foundation for his broadcasting career. This experience helped him develop the energetic style that would later become his trademark.
His impact extends beyond just calling games. Michaels has helped elevate the Oilers’ brand through his passionate storytelling and marketing efforts, making game highlights more engaging for fans.
His distinctive voice has become synonymous with the team’s identity during both regular season games and high-stakes playoff matchups, including their recent Stanley Cup Final appearance.
Memorable Moments and Calls
Michaels’ energetic announcing style has produced numerous iconic calls that resonate with Oilers faithful. His enthusiastic “OVERTIME WINNER!” calls during playoff games have become legendary within the fanbase.
As noted by fans on Reddit, his commentary significantly enhances the viewing experience, making spectacular plays even more memorable through his passionate descriptions.
Some of Michaels’ most celebrated calls include:
- Connor McDavid’s overtime goals
- Leon Draisaitl’s crucial playoff performances
- Dramatic victory moments in elimination games
His ability to match his energy to game situations—remaining measured during routine plays but exploding with excitement during key moments—has earned him respect throughout hockey broadcasting circles.
During All-Star Game broadcasts, Michaels brings the same enthusiasm, making even exhibition matchups feel significant through his animated delivery and deep knowledge of the sport.
Jack Michaels Beyond Hockey
Jack Michaels, known primarily as the play-by-play announcer for the Edmonton Oilers, has expanded his broadcasting talents beyond the ice. His distinctive voice and analytical style have found homes in other sports and media platforms.
Coverage of Other Sports
Michaels has demonstrated versatility in his broadcasting career by covering multiple sports beyond hockey. His experience includes play-by-play work for football games in the off-season, bringing the same energy that Oilers fans have come to appreciate.
Basketball has also benefited from Michaels’ commentary skills. His ability to capture fast-paced action translates well from hockey to the hardwood, where he’s called several collegiate games.
Baseball broadcasts have featured Michaels’ voice during summer months when hockey is in hibernation. His detailed storytelling approach fits perfectly with the methodical pace of America’s pastime.
This multi-sport approach keeps Michaels sharp year-round and has helped him develop a broader fanbase beyond hockey circles.
Involvement in Broader Media
Michaels has expanded his media footprint beyond live game broadcasts. His work includes appearances on various sports networks. He has also collaborated with national broadcasts.
His social media presence, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), allows him to connect with fans directly. Michaels joined the platform in April 2009 and has built a substantial following.
Michaels offers fans a glimpse behind the scenes at Rogers Place through various media initiatives. His insider perspective adds depth to the fan experience beyond just game calls.
He has also ventured into podcast appearances. In these, he had detailed discussions about the Oilers’ near-comeback in the Stanley Cup Final, showcasing his analytical abilities in long-form content.
