John Kelly – St. Louis Blues: Veteran Defenseman Returns from Injury for Playoff Push
When you think of St. Louis Blues hockey, one voice has become synonymous with the team’s broadcasts over the last two decades. John Kelly, now in his 36th NHL season, has been the television voice of the Blues since 2006, bringing the excitement and energy of hockey into homes across the region. His dedication to preparation and passion for the game has made him one of the most respected broadcasters in the league, known for providing fans with insightful commentary that brings them closer to the team they love.
Kelly’s connection to the Blues runs deeper than just his broadcasting career. As the son of legendary hockey announcer Dan Kelly, John grew up around the sport and the Blues organization, giving him a unique perspective that comes through in his work. His childhood connection to the team has evolved into a professional relationship that spans nearly two decades, making him as much a part of the Blues’ identity as the players themselves.
Beyond the booth, Kelly is known for his player interviews and game preparation. His recent conversation with defenseman Cam Fowler following Fowler’s trade to St. Louis showcased Kelly’s ability to quickly connect with players and extract meaningful insights about their experiences. This approach to broadcasting has made Kelly’s voice an essential part of the Blues experience for fans who tune in night after night.
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Biography of John Kelly
John Kelly has dedicated his life to hockey broadcasting, following a family tradition while establishing his own respected career with the St. Louis Blues. His journey from childhood to becoming one of the NHL’s most recognizable voices spans decades of dedication to the sport.
Early Life and Family
Born on July 25, 1960, John Kelly grew up immersed in hockey culture. As the son of legendary broadcaster Dan Kelly, John was exposed to the sport from an early age.
The Kelly family’s hockey roots run deep. John spent his formative years in St. Louis after his family relocated there during his childhood. This early exposure to Blues hockey would later prove significant in shaping his career path.
His upbringing around professional hockey gave him unique insights into the game. John often accompanied his father to games, absorbing broadcasting techniques and developing his own style while surrounded by NHL players and personalities.
Following Dan Kelly’s Legacy
John Kelly embarked on his broadcasting career with big skates to fill. His father Dan was considered one of hockey’s greatest voices, particularly known for his work with the Blues.
John’s professional journey began with the St. Louis Blues in the early years before he moved to the Tampa Bay Lightning to take on a larger play-by-play role. His career has now spanned an impressive 36 seasons broadcasting NHL games, including 23 seasons with St. Louis.
After brief stints with other teams, Kelly returned to his roots in 2006 and has been the voice of Blues telecasts on Bally Sports Midwest ever since. His distinctive calling style and deep knowledge of hockey have made him a beloved figure among Blues fans.
John Kelly’s Broadcasting Career
John Kelly’s broadcasting journey spans decades, marked by his distinctive voice and deep hockey knowledge. His career path led him from college sports to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in NHL broadcasting.
Early Broadcasting Roles
Kelly’s broadcasting roots trace back to his time at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville where he called Cougar baseball and basketball games. This collegiate experience provided the foundation for his later success.
Like his father Dan Kelly, a legendary hockey broadcaster, John gravitated toward the sport. Broadcasting runs in the Kelly blood, and John has often credited his father’s influence on his career choice and announcing style.
Before becoming a fixture with the Blues, Kelly worked with several NHL franchises, cutting his teeth with regional broadcasts and honing his distinctive play-by-play approach. These early roles helped him develop the voice and analytical skills that would later define his career.
Rise to Play-by-Play Announcer
Kelly’s big break came with the Colorado Avalanche, where he served as their play-by-play announcer during a pivotal era. He had the privilege of calling games during Colorado’s Stanley Cup runs, cementing his reputation as a top-tier hockey broadcaster.
His clear delivery, knowledge of the game, and ability to capture dramatic moments made him a fan favorite. Kelly’s enthusiasm during pivotal playoff moments became his trademark.
Eventually, Kelly returned to St. Louis, where he became the TV play-by-play announcer for the Blues on Bally Sports Midwest. This homecoming marked the beginning of his most enduring professional chapter.
Notable Broadcasting Highlights
Kelly’s career features several remarkable moments, including calling the Blues’ historic first Stanley Cup victory in 2019. His emotional call of the final moments captured the 52-year wait for championship glory.
His signature phrases and calls during crucial playoff moments have become part of Blues lore. Fans particularly remember his enthusiastic “Holy Jumpin’!” exclamation during exciting plays.
Kelly’s broadcasting excellence earned him widespread respect throughout the NHL community. His ability to remain neutral while still conveying the excitement of the game sets him apart from many regional broadcasters.
Kelly has also worked national broadcasts during the NHL playoffs, bringing his expertise to wider audiences during the sport’s most important games. His voice has become synonymous with hockey for generations of fans.
John Kelly and the St. Louis Blues
John Kelly has become synonymous with St. Louis Blues hockey through his passionate play-by-play announcing and deep knowledge of the game. His distinctive voice has narrated the team’s highest highs and lowest lows over more than two decades.
The Impact on St. Louis Blues
John Kelly has served as the TV play-by-play announcer for the St. Louis Blues on Bally Sports Midwest for 23 seasons, becoming the soundtrack of Blues hockey for a generation of fans. His broadcasting career in the NHL spans an impressive 36 years, including his current tenure in St. Louis that began in the early 2000s after a previous three-year stint in the 1990s.
Kelly’s preparation for games is meticulous. He studies player pronunciations, statistics, and storylines before each broadcast, ensuring viewers receive accurate and engaging commentary throughout the game.
His familial connection to hockey broadcasting runs deep. As the son of legendary announcer Dan Kelly, John carries on a broadcasting legacy while establishing his own distinctive style that Blues fans have come to appreciate.
Memorable Moments with the Blues
Kelly’s most celebrated call came during the Blues’ historic 2019 Stanley Cup championship run. His emotional narration of the final moments against the Boston Bruins captured the 52-year wait for the franchise’s first championship.
“The Blues have won the Stanley Cup!” – these words from Kelly still resonate with fans who waited generations to hear them.
During his tenure, Kelly has worked alongside several color commentators, developing chemistry with each while maintaining his signature announcing style. His interviews with players offer unique insights, as seen when he recently caught up with defenseman Cam Fowler about his trade to St. Louis.
Kelly’s broadcasting approach balances technical hockey knowledge with accessible explanations that welcome new fans to the sport.
John Kelly’s Presence in the Playoffs
Kelly’s voice elevates during playoff hockey, matching the intensity on the ice. His calls during the Blues’ 2019 Stanley Cup run perfectly captured the tension of elimination games and overtime thrillers.
Throughout multiple playoff appearances, Kelly has provided the narrative backdrop to Blues hockey’s most crucial moments. His ability to maintain composure while conveying excitement makes playoff hockey more dramatic for viewers.
Before crucial playoff matchups, Kelly intensifies his preparation. As he discussed before a Jets playoff matchup, he studies opposing rosters and recent performances to provide contextual insights during high-stakes games.
Kelly’s broadcasting during the playoffs demonstrates why many consider him among the elite NHL play-by-play announcers – he elevates his performance when the games matter most.
Advancements and Challenges
John Kelly’s career with the St. Louis Blues has been marked by significant professional triumphs and personal obstacles. His journey demonstrates remarkable resilience in broadcasting while adapting to evolving technologies and health hurdles.
Tackling Health Challenges
In 2018, John Kelly faced a serious health battle when he was diagnosed with cancer. The longtime St. Louis Blues television broadcaster stepped away from the booth temporarily to undergo treatment.
His absence was felt throughout the Blues organization and fanbase. Kelly approached his cancer fight with the same determination he brings to his broadcasting work.
He returned to calling games after successful treatment, demonstrating remarkable resilience. The experience changed his perspective on life and work, making him appreciate each broadcast opportunity even more.
Kelly has used his platform to raise awareness for cancer research and support others facing similar health challenges. His openness about his journey has inspired many in the hockey community.
Innovation in Sports Broadcasting
Kelly has embraced technological advancements throughout his 36-season NHL broadcasting career. His preparation routine has evolved significantly from his early days.
He utilizes digital tools to research players and statistics, moving away from paper-based methods. This adaptation allows him to provide deeper insights during broadcasts.
| Kelly’s Broadcasting Innovations |
|---|
| Digital statistical analysis |
| Enhanced player background research |
| Integration of advanced metrics |
| Improved viewer engagement techniques |
“Bringing fans closer to the team” remains Kelly’s primary goal. He constantly refines his approach to pass along information that enhances viewer experience.
Kelly balances traditional broadcasting elements with modern approaches. He maintains his signature call style while incorporating new hockey analytics into his commentary.
His willingness to evolve has kept his broadcasts fresh and relevant for decades. Young broadcasters often study his techniques for balancing tradition and innovation.
The Kelly Legacy in NHL
The Kelly name stands tall in NHL broadcasting history, representing two generations of voices that have brought hockey to life for millions of fans. Their distinctive styles and deep knowledge of the game have made them fixtures in the sport’s landscape.
Dan Kelly’s Influence on the NHL
Dan Kelly’s voice became synonymous with hockey broadcasting during his illustrious career. From 1968 until his passing in 1989, he served as the voice of the St. Louis Blues, establishing himself as one of the NHL’s most respected announcers.
His distinctive call of “He shoots, he scores!” became legendary among hockey fans. Dan’s knowledge of the game and ability to capture dramatic moments made him a broadcasting legend in the sport.
The elder Kelly called 16 consecutive Stanley Cup Finals for CBS and Hockey Night in Canada. His work earned him induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1989, receiving the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award.
His impact on hockey broadcasting set standards that announcers still aspire to today.
John Kelly’s Contribution to Hockey
John Kelly has carved out his own impressive broadcasting career, following his father’s footsteps. As the current play-by-play announcer for the St. Louis Blues, John has maintained the family tradition with distinction.
John literally bleeds blue, bringing passion and expertise to each broadcast. His career path included valuable time with the Colorado Avalanche, where he called their 1996 Stanley Cup victory.
John’s broadcasting style combines technical hockey knowledge with genuine enthusiasm. He developed his skills after transferring to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with deep ambition to pursue broadcasting.
Hockey fans appreciate John’s ability to paint pictures with words, just as his father did. His voice has become a comforting presence for generations of Blues supporters during both triumphant and challenging seasons.
Beyond the Commentary Booth
John Kelly’s influence extends far beyond his play-by-play duties for the St. Louis Blues. His commitment to connecting with fans and embracing new media platforms has helped him remain a beloved figure in the hockey community.
Engagement with Fans
Kelly has built a reputation for his genuine interactions with Blues supporters. At home games, he frequently meets with fans during intermissions, signing autographs and chatting about the team’s performance.
His approach to fan engagement isn’t limited to game days. Kelly regularly appears at team-sponsored events throughout St. Louis, using his extensive hockey knowledge to educate new fans while reminiscing with long-time supporters.
Social media has become another avenue for Kelly’s fan connections. Though not as active as some broadcasters, his occasional posts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) provide followers with behind-the-scenes insights and thoughtful analysis.
Kelly’s accessibility has made him a trusted voice for Blues nation. Fans particularly appreciate his willingness to answer questions about hockey history and broadcasting techniques.
Venturing into Podcasts
Kelly has embraced the podcast medium, joining the growing trend of traditional broadcasters expanding their digital footprint. His appearances on hockey podcasts showcase his storytelling abilities and deep knowledge of the game.
One notable example is “The Late Shift” series, where Kelly teamed up with color commentator Darren Pang. Their December 2023 episode provided viewers with candid discussion following a Blues game.
These podcast ventures allow Kelly to explore topics in greater depth than the broadcast format permits. He frequently shares anecdotes from his 36-year NHL broadcasting career, giving listeners unprecedented access to hockey history.
Kelly’s podcast appearances typically feature:
- Historical perspectives on the Blues franchise
- Analysis of current team dynamics
- Broadcasting industry insights
- Personal stories about hockey legends
His relaxed podcast demeanor reveals a different side to the polished broadcaster fans hear during games.
Influence Beyond St. Louis
John Kelly’s broadcasting impact extends well beyond the borders of Missouri. His distinctive voice and hockey knowledge have resonated throughout the NHL, making him a respected figure in multiple markets.
Expanding Horizons to Tampa Bay
Before becoming the play-by-play announcer for the St. Louis Blues, Kelly built his reputation with the Tampa Bay Lightning. During his tenure in Florida, he helped establish the broadcast identity for the young franchise.
Kelly’s time with Tampa gave him valuable experience working with an expansion team. He developed a knack for explaining hockey fundamentals to new fans while still satisfying knowledgeable viewers.
His broadcasting style in Tampa featured the same passion and knowledge that Blues fans would later come to appreciate. The Lightning benefited from Kelly’s professionalism during their formative years.
Kelly’s work in Tampa helped him refine his distinctive broadcasting voice before returning to his St. Louis roots.
Encounters with Other Teams
Kelly’s career has placed him in the broadcast booth for countless memorable moments against NHL powerhouses. His calls during intense matchups with Philadelphia, Boston, and Denver’s Avalanche stand out in hockey broadcasting history.
During a particularly tense playoff series against the Avalanche, Kelly described Patrick Roy’s goaltending brilliance. This demonstrated Kelly’s ability to appreciate skill regardless of team allegiance.
One memorable playoff run saw Kelly’s broadcasting reach peak form as he captured the intensity of postseason hockey. His voice became synonymous with high-stakes hockey nationwide, not just in St. Louis. His work during national broadcasts earned respect from hockey fans across North America.
His ability to maintain composure while delivering passionate calls during intense moments has made him a beloved figure beyond Blues territory.
