John Shorthouse – Vancouver Canucks Celebrates 25 Years as Lead Play-by-Play Announcer
John Shorthouse has been the voice of the Vancouver Canucks for years, bringing the excitement of hockey to fans across British Columbia and beyond. As the lead play-by-play commentator for the Canucks on Sportsnet Pacific television, “Shorty” has become synonymous with the team’s biggest moments. His distinctive voice and insightful commentary have made him one of the most respected broadcasters in hockey.
He calls both regional games and select nationally-televised matchups on Sportsnet.
Beyond his broadcasting talents, Shorthouse brings personality to the booth. Recently, he made headlines when he cleverly referenced U.S. tariffs on Canada during a Red Wings game, showcasing his quick wit that fans have come to appreciate. His ability to blend hockey knowledge with timely humor keeps viewers engaged even during slower moments of play.
Canucks fans fondly remember Shorthouse’s iconic calls during the team’s 2011 Stanley Cup Playoff run, where his voice carried the emotion of each of the 58 goals Vancouver scored during that memorable postseason. Those dramatic calls have cemented his place in Canucks history, creating an auditory timeline of the franchise’s closest brush with championship glory.
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Career Overview
John Shorthouse has built a distinguished broadcasting career spanning nearly three decades with the Vancouver Canucks organization, becoming one of the most recognizable voices in Canadian hockey.
Broadcasting Beginnings
Shorthouse’s journey in sports media began in 1993 at CKVU-TV, a local Vancouver television station. The Vancouver native had always dreamed of being a sports broadcaster, and his early career gave him the foundation to pursue that passion.
His big break came when he joined the Canucks’ broadcast team, where he initially served in various supporting roles before getting opportunities behind the microphone.
In the late 1990s, Shorthouse began establishing himself as a reliable voice for Canucks coverage, demonstrating a sharp eye for the game and clear delivery that resonated with fans.
Rise to Main Commentator
Shorthouse became the radio voice of the Vancouver Canucks in 1999, handling play-by-play duties on radio broadcasts until March 2008. His detailed descriptions and knowledge of the game made him perfect for radio where painting the picture for listeners is essential.
His exceptional work didn’t go unnoticed. Shorthouse eventually transitioned to television, becoming the lead play-by-play commentator for the Canucks on Rogers Sportsnet Pacific.
In 2023, he renewed his contract with Sportsnet, confirming he would continue in his role as the television play-by-play voice, a position he’s held for 15 years.
Partnerships in the Booth
Throughout his career, Shorthouse has worked alongside various color commentators, forming memorable broadcasting partnerships that enhanced Canucks broadcasts for viewers and listeners alike.
His chemistry with colleagues has been a hallmark of Canucks broadcasts, providing fans with informative and entertaining coverage. His professional approach allows his partners to shine while maintaining the flow of game commentary.
Shorthouse’s consistency has made him a prominent fixture in Vancouver sports media for decades. For many Canucks fans who grew up with the team, his voice has become synonymous with the team’s biggest moments.
His broadcasting style balances technical hockey knowledge with accessibility for casual fans, making him effective across both radio and television platforms.
John Shorthouse with the Vancouver Canucks
John Shorthouse has become synonymous with Vancouver Canucks hockey as the lead play-by-play commentator for the team on Sportsnet Pacific television broadcasts. His distinctive voice has narrated countless memorable moments in franchise history.
Signature Style and Impact
Shorthouse brings a balanced approach to the broadcast booth, combining deep hockey knowledge with a calm, articulate delivery that resonates with Canucks fans across British Columbia. His ability to rise with the action without overwhelming viewers has made him one of the most respected voices in Canadian hockey broadcasting.
As the lead play-by-play commentator for Sportsnet Pacific’s Canucks coverage, Shorthouse calls approximately 60-70 regular-season games annually. His partnership with color commentator John Garrett has created one of the most recognizable broadcasting duos in Vancouver sports.
Shorthouse occasionally steps onto the national stage, handling select nationally-televised games on Sportsnet, expanding his reach beyond the Vancouver market and into living rooms across Canada.
His command of the game’s nuances and player details gives viewers confidence in his calls during crucial moments, especially during intense Playoff matchups.
Memorable Calls
The 2011 Stanley Cup run stands as perhaps Shorthouse’s defining work. His voice carried the emotion of Vancouver’s journey to Game 7 of the finals, with 58 goal calls throughout that playoff run etched into Canucks fans’ memories.
Shorthouse doesn’t shy away from injecting subtle humor into broadcasts. Recently, he made headlines with a clever quip about American politics during a game, referencing Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariff on Canada during a penalty call in a Red Wings game.
His call of Alex Burrows’ overtime winner against Chicago in 2011’s first round – “It’s a great day for an exorcism!” – remains one of the most iconic phrases in team history. The goal eliminated the Blackhawks and helped Vancouver overcome their playoff nemesis.
Shorthouse’s voice rises and falls with the action, providing the perfect soundtrack to momentous Canucks goals without overshadowing the moment itself.
Community Engagement
Beyond the booth, Shorthouse maintains strong connections with the Vancouver hockey community. He frequently appears at team events, charity functions, and fan gatherings throughout British Columbia.
His participation in the annual Canucks Report radio programming gives fans additional access to his insights and hockey knowledge. These appearances help strengthen his connection with the fanbase outside of game broadcasts.
Shorthouse represents Vancouver at Hockey Night in Canada events when his schedule permits, serving as an ambassador for both the team and the city on Canada’s premier hockey platform.
His longevity with the franchise has made him a trusted voice for multiple generations of Canucks supporters. Parents who grew up listening to his calls now share the experience with their children, creating a multi-generational bond.
Contributions to Sports Broadcasting
John Shorthouse has made significant impacts on hockey broadcasting through his distinctive play-by-play style and professional approach. His contributions have shaped how Vancouver Canucks games are presented to fans across multiple platforms.
Innovation in Presentation
Shorthouse revolutionized Canucks broadcasts with his perfect blend of excitement and analytical precision. Unlike many announcers who rely on volume, “Shorty” developed a signature call that emphasizes key moments through timing and vocal control rather than just shouting.
His work spans both radio and television platforms, demonstrating remarkable versatility. He pioneered a more conversational approach to NHL broadcasting, making technical aspects of hockey accessible to casual viewers while satisfying dedicated fans.
On Sportsnet broadcasts, Shorthouse introduced more detailed statistical analysis during games, a practice now standard across the league. His ability to seamlessly weave player stories with game action created a more engaging viewing experience.
Mentorship and Influence
Shorthouse’s impact extends beyond his own broadcasts through his mentorship of emerging talent. Several young broadcasters who worked alongside him have gone on to successful careers throughout the NHL and other sports leagues.
His 25-year tenure as the Canucks’ voice has established a gold standard for regional sports broadcasting. Young announcers study his pacing, preparation, and ability to maintain energy throughout a broadcast.
Shorthouse formed particularly effective partnerships with color commentators, most notably his long-running collaboration with John Garrett that spanned over fifteen years. Their chemistry demonstrated how complementary broadcasting roles could enhance viewer experience.
His influence shaped the current generation of hockey broadcasters, with many citing his balanced approach as inspiration for their own careers.
Partnerships and Colleagues
John Shorthouse’s broadcasting career with the Vancouver Canucks has been defined by the strong partnerships he’s formed with his fellow commentators. These relationships have helped create the distinctive voice of Canucks broadcasts that fans have come to love over the years.
Dynamic with John Garrett
The pairing of John Shorthouse and John Garrett has become legendary in Vancouver hockey circles. Often referred to as simply “John and John,” this duo has developed into a Vancouver institution over their years together on Sportsnet Pacific broadcasts.
Garrett, affectionately nicknamed “Cheech” by fans and colleagues, joined Shorthouse when the play-by-play announcer moved from radio to television. Their chemistry was immediate and lasting.
The pair’s contrasting styles complement each other perfectly. Shorthouse provides precise, detailed play-by-play while Garrett offers color commentary with his signature folksy hockey wisdom and occasional food references that delight viewers.
Their partnership has extended beyond two decades, making them one of the longest-standing broadcast teams in NHL history. In fact, many fans consider Garrett so integral to Canucks broadcasts that there have been calls for him to be honored in the Ring of Honour for his contributions to the team’s culture and identity.
Work with Dave Tomlinson
When John Garrett has been unavailable, Shorthouse has developed a strong working relationship with analyst Dave Tomlinson. The Shorthouse-Tomlinson pairing has featured prominently on Sportsnet’s regional broadcasts of Canucks games.
Tomlinson brings a different energy to broadcasts, with his technical analysis and strategic insights complementing Shorthouse’s play-calling style. Their partnership represents a slightly more analytical approach compared to the “John and John” broadcasts.
The pair has called numerous important games together, including playoff matchups that have required national broadcast coverage. Their professional rapport allows for seamless transitions between play description and analysis.
While perhaps not as celebrated as the “John and John” combination, the Shorthouse-Tomlinson partnership has earned respect from Canucks fans for its consistent quality and depth of hockey knowledge.
Tom Larscheid’s Legacy
Before his television partnerships, Shorthouse worked extensively with Tom Larscheid on radio broadcasts, a partnership that helped establish his reputation in Vancouver. Larscheid’s passionate, emotional style of commentary provided the perfect counterbalance to Shorthouse’s more measured approach.
The Shorthouse-Larscheid team called numerous memorable moments in Canucks history, including playoff runs and significant milestones for franchise legends like Markus Naslund and the Sedin twins.
Larscheid’s legacy lives on in Shorthouse’s broadcasting style. Many longtime listeners can detect traces of Larscheid’s influence in how Shorthouse structures his calls and builds excitement during key moments.
Their partnership ended when Larscheid retired in 2010, but their impact on Canucks broadcast history remains significant. The torch was effectively passed when Shorthouse made the full-time move to television with Sportsnet in 2008-09, though they continued to work together occasionally until Larscheid’s retirement.
Significant Games and Events
John Shorthouse has been the voice behind many memorable Canucks moments throughout his broadcasting career. His distinctive play-by-play style has become synonymous with Vancouver hockey, especially during high-stakes situations.
First Canucks Playoff Game Call
After years of calling regular season games, John Shorthouse finally got his chance to call Canucks playoff games on television during the 2024 Stanley Cup playoffs. Partnered with Dave Tomlinson, Shorthouse brought his signature enthusiasm to the postseason matchups.
The series against the Nashville Predators represented a career highlight for Shorthouse. Game 1 featured what many fans described as palpable “electricity in the building” – an atmosphere Shorthouse captured perfectly in his commentary.
His playoff debut behind the microphone showcased his ability to elevate his calling style for the heightened stakes of postseason hockey. Fans particularly noted his ability to match the energy of key moments without overpowering the natural drama of the games.
Notable Canucks Seasons
Shorthouse’s broadcasting career spans several significant eras of Canucks hockey. While known for contemporary work, he actually covered the 1994 Stanley Cup Final early in his career – a fact that surprises many fans who know his more recent work.
His calls during the emergence of the Seattle Kraken as division rivals added new storylines to his repertoire. Shorthouse has demonstrated a knack for incorporating relevant context during broadcasts, including a humorous reference to U.S. tariffs on Canada during a Red Wings game.
Shorthouse’s most acclaimed work often comes during tight games where his voice rises with the tension. His ability to paint the picture for radio listeners while providing insightful commentary for television viewers shows his versatility as a broadcaster.
Fan Engagement and Media Presence
John Shorthouse’s connection with Canucks fans extends far beyond his play-by-play duties. His distinctive voice and broadcasting style have made him a beloved figure in Vancouver’s hockey community through various media channels and personal interactions.
Social Media and Digital Outreach
Though not overly active on social platforms, Shorthouse’s voice regularly reaches fans through Canucks broadcast clips shared across team channels. His commentary often becomes the soundtrack to memorable moments that circulate widely online.
Digital subscribers to Vancouversun.com and Theprovince.com frequently see references to his calls in game coverage, with writers often quoting his most colorful phrases.
His partnership with colleagues like Dave Tomlinson and Dan Murphy has created a digital footprint that resonates throughout British Columbia. As reported by Satiar Shah, Shorthouse’s return to Sportsnet broadcasts was celebrated widely across fan forums and team sites.
Public Appearances
Shorthouse maintains a consistent presence at Canucks community events throughout the Lower Mainland. His voice is instantly recognizable at charity functions, fan meetups, and hockey clinics across British Columbia.
His genuine interactions with fans have helped create supporter groups like the Larscheiders, who bring heightened energy to home games. These passionate fans often cite Shorthouse’s enthusiastic calls as inspiration for their own vocal support.
Memorable public moments include the emotional tribute when his long-time partner John Garrett stepped away, showing a personal side that resonated deeply with fans. These authentic connections have cemented his status as more than just a broadcaster, but a true fixture in Vancouver’s hockey culture.
John Shorthouse’s Personal Journey
John Shorthouse’s rise to become the lead play-by-play commentator for the Vancouver Canucks encompasses a fascinating journey from local beginnings to broadcasting prominence. His path combines early influences and determination with strategic career moves.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in the Vancouver area, Shorthouse grew up in the Kerrisdale neighborhood where hockey commentary became an early passion. As a child, he often practiced calling games while watching Hockey Night in Canada, developing the distinctive voice that would later become familiar to Canucks fans.
He attended the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), focusing on broadcast journalism studies. This formal education provided him with the technical foundation needed for a career in sports broadcasting.
His early exposure to local Vancouver sports culture shaped his understanding of the community he would later serve as a broadcaster. Friends and former classmates recall his unwavering focus on pursuing a career behind the microphone.
Path to the Broadcast Booth
Shorthouse began his professional journey at a local station. He worked as a fill-in sports reporter and used these early opportunities to develop his craft and build industry connections.
His big break came when he landed a job with the Canucks’ radio broadcasts. He worked alongside veterans of the industry. What started as occasional fill-in work eventually led to regular assignments covering the team.
In 2008-09, Shorthouse became the lead play-by-play commentator for Canucks broadcasts on Sportsnet Pacific. His contract with Rogers Media solidified his role as the voice of the team. He called both regional games and select national broadcasts.
Shorthouse formed a renowned partnership with color commentator John Garrett. Fans affectionately know them as the “John and John” or “Cheech and Shorty” duo. Their chemistry and distinctive broadcasting style have made them fixtures in Vancouver hockey culture.
