Judd Sirott – Boston Bruins Announcer Marks 5 Years Behind the Mic
Judd Sirott has become the voice Boston Bruins fans associate with their favorite team’s most exciting moments. Born on January 6, 1969, Sirott currently serves as the play-by-play announcer for the Boston Bruins on NESN, bringing games to life with his distinctive broadcasting style. His transition to television play-by-play after years in radio demonstrates the respect he’s earned throughout hockey broadcasting circles and his ability to connect with Bruins fans across New England.
Sirott’s journey to the Bruins broadcast booth wasn’t overnight. Before joining NESN, he built his reputation as a skilled hockey commentator, eventually earning the opportunity to call games for one of the NHL’s original six franchises. When he made his debut as the NESN Bruins play-by-play announcer, fans quickly appreciated his knowledge of the game and enthusiasm during broadcasts.
What separates Sirott from other announcers is his authenticity in the booth. His candid style was on full display when he kept it completely real after the Buffalo Sabres scored their seventh goal during a particularly difficult night for the Bruins. This honest approach has endeared him to Boston’s passionate fanbase, who appreciate his straightforward calling of games whether the Bruins are dominating or struggling.
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Career Overview
Judd Sirott has built an impressive broadcasting career spanning multiple decades and hockey organizations. His journey from Chicago radio to becoming the voice of an Original Six franchise showcases his dedication to the craft of sports broadcasting.
Early Beginnings
Sirott’s broadcasting journey began in his hometown of Arlington Heights, Illinois. As a Chicago native, he cut his teeth in the Windy City’s competitive sports media landscape. His early career included work in Chicago radio, where he developed the foundational skills that would later define his broadcasting style.
Before focusing on hockey full-time, Sirott gained valuable experience across multiple sports platforms. This diverse background helped shape his distinctive play-by-play approach.
His first significant hockey role came when he joined the Chicago Wolves broadcast team. During his 12-year stint calling games for this American Hockey League franchise, Sirott honed his hockey vocabulary and developed deep knowledge of the sport’s nuances.
Rise to Play-by-Play for Bruins
Sirott’s big NHL break came when he joined the Boston Bruins broadcast team on 98.5 The Sports Hub. As the radio play-by-play announcer, he quickly established himself as a trusted voice for Bruins fans.
His work with the Bruins radio broadcasts demonstrated his ability to capture the excitement and complexity of National Hockey League action. Sirott’s precise descriptions and hockey knowledge resonated with Boston’s knowledgeable fanbase.
In 2024, Sirott’s career reached new heights when NESN hired him as their television play-by-play announcer. This promotion placed him in the role previously held by longtime broadcaster Jack Edwards, filling big shoes in one of hockey’s most passionate markets.
Roles Beyond the Bruins
Before joining the Bruins organization, Sirott gained valuable experience with the Chicago Blackhawks. This stint with another Original Six franchise gave him perspective on hockey’s deepest traditions and rivalries.
Sirott’s versatility extends beyond hockey. Throughout his career, he has worked on broadcasts for other sports, demonstrating adaptability that enriches his hockey commentary.
His broadcasting responsibilities have included:
- Pre-game and post-game shows
- Interview segments with players and coaches
- Special event coverage
- Season preview and recap programming
This wide-ranging experience has made Sirott a well-rounded broadcaster capable of providing context beyond just the play-by-play action, making him a valuable asset to any broadcast team.
In-Depth with Judd Sirott
Judd Sirott brings a wealth of experience and unique perspective to his role as the new voice of the Boston Bruins. His journey to becoming NESN’s play-by-play announcer reveals a passionate broadcaster with deep hockey roots.
Educational Background
Sirott’s foundation in broadcasting began at the University of Michigan, where he honed his communications skills while developing a keen understanding of sports narratives. The Michigan experience provided him with both theoretical knowledge and practical opportunities through campus radio.
Before joining the Bruins, Sirott paid his dues in the minor leagues, calling Chicago Wolves games in the AHL. This experience proved invaluable, allowing him to develop his distinctive play-by-play style away from the brightest spotlights.
His career path included a significant stint with the Chicago Blackhawks radio team, building his NHL credentials before the opportunity with Boston materialized.
Broadcasting Philosophy
Sirott approaches hockey broadcasts with a refreshing blend of preparation and spontaneity. He believes in doing extensive homework on players and teams but letting the game breathe during broadcasts.
“The game tells its own story,” appears to be a core tenet of his broadcasting approach. Sirott respects the intelligence of Bruins fans, avoiding over-explanation while providing context when truly needed.
Behind the microphone, Sirott prioritizes accuracy and timing, understanding that NHL hockey’s rapid pace demands precision. He works closely with the NESN production crew to ensure seamless broadcasts that capture the game’s energy.
His philosophy also embraces the emotional connection fans have with their team. Sirott aims to enhance the viewing experience without overshadowing the action on ice.
Personal Insights
Beyond hockey, Sirott brings surprising personal dimensions to his role. Few Bruins fans might guess that their new announcer is actually a closet metal-head, adding an unexpected layer to his professional persona.
His passion for broadcasting extends beyond hockey, though the sport clearly holds special significance. Colleagues describe Sirott as meticulously prepared yet adaptable when games take unexpected turns.
Family plays a central role in Sirott’s life, providing balance to the demanding travel schedule of an NHL broadcaster. This personal foundation seems to ground his professional approach.
During broadcasts, attentive listeners might catch occasional references that reveal his broad interests beyond sports, including history and music. These subtle touches add authenticity to his calls without distracting from the game itself.
Behind the Scenes
Judd Sirott’s role as the Bruins play-by-play announcer involves extensive preparation and collaboration that viewers rarely see. His work with NESN extends beyond just calling the action during games.
The NESN Production Approach
NESN’s approach to Bruins broadcasts combines technical expertise with storytelling elements that enhance viewer experience. The production crew arrives hours before puck drop to set up equipment, test audio systems, and prepare graphics packages.
Sirott typically arrives at the arena about four hours before game time. He reviews stats, practices pronunciation, and meets with coaches and players for last-minute insights.
When Sirott isn’t calling games, he still maintains a connection to the team. He watches broadcasts closely, taking notes on gameplay patterns and storylines for future reference.
The production team meets before each broadcast to discuss focus points and potential in-game storylines. These planning sessions ensure smooth transitions between game action, replays, and analysis.
Working with Co-Analysts
Sirott’s chemistry with color analyst Andy Brickley has quickly become a highlight of NESN’s Bruins coverage. Their partnership demonstrates the balance between play-by-play narration and expert analysis.
Before games, Sirott and Brickley review key matchups and talking points. This preparation allows their on-air conversations to flow naturally while remaining informative for viewers.
“Our pre-game meetings are essential,” Brickley noted in a recent interview. “We identify storylines but leave room for spontaneous reaction to what happens on the ice.”
Sirott’s background in Chicago broadcasting brings fresh perspective to the booth. He balances respecting the traditions of Bruins hockey while introducing his own broadcasting style.
During commercial breaks, Sirott and Brickley discuss upcoming segments and adjust their approach based on game developments. This behind-the-scenes coordination creates the seamless broadcast that fans enjoy.
Highlights and Achievements
Judd Sirott has built an impressive career as the play by play announcer for the Boston Bruins on NESN. His distinctive broadcasting style and professional accomplishments have made him a respected voice in hockey broadcasting circles.
Noteworthy Broadcasts
Sirott’s ability to capture dramatic moments has become his trademark with the Bruins. His call of David Pastrnak’s memorable goals have particularly stood out among fans and critics alike. These moments, featured in highlight compilations, showcase his talent for building excitement at crucial game points.
One of his most viral moments came during a particularly difficult game against the Buffalo Sabres. When Buffalo scored their seventh goal of the night, Sirott kept it remarkably real in his reaction – a moment that resonated with fans for its honesty.
As the Radio Voice on the Bruins’ Flagship Station before moving to NESN, Sirott developed a reputation for clear, descriptive narration that helps listeners visualize the action perfectly.
Awards and Recognitions
Sirott’s broadcasting excellence includes being part of a championship team, as he’s a one-time AHL Calder Cup Champion. This achievement came during his earlier broadcasting career before joining the Bruins organization.
The Massachusetts Broadcasters Association has recognized his work multiple times for excellence in sports broadcasting. His dedication to the craft has earned him respect throughout the industry.
When Sirott joined NESN, he faced the challenging task of filling legendary broadcaster Jack Edwards’ shoes. His seamless transition demonstrated why he was selected for this prestigious role.
Born in Chicago in 1969, the now 56-year-old broadcaster brings a wealth of experience and professionalism to every Bruins broadcast.
Community and Social Engagement
Judd Sirott has established himself as more than just a voice on the airwaves for Bruins fans. His connection to the Boston community extends beyond the broadcast booth through various platforms and initiatives.
Social Media Outreach
Sirott maintains an active presence across multiple social media platforms, engaging with fans in the passionate Boston hockey market. On Twitter, he regularly shares insights about upcoming games and behind-the-scenes moments with the Bruins organization.
His Instagram account features photos from his vantage point at TD Garden, giving followers a broadcaster’s perspective of game night. Unlike some broadcasters who limit their online interaction, Sirott frequently responds to fan questions about team dynamics and game strategies.
During the offseason, Sirott uses social platforms to highlight community events involving Bruins players. His TikTok content, though less frequent, offers quick takes on breaking team news that resonate with younger fans.
Contributions to Boston Sports
Since joining NESN as the Bruins play-by-play announcer, Sirott has immersed himself in Boston’s sports culture. He stepped into the significant role previously held by Jack Edwards, quickly adapting to the expectations of one of hockey’s premier cities.
Sirott participates in numerous charity events throughout the Boston area. He lends his recognizable voice to fundraisers supporting youth hockey programs. His work with the Bruins Foundation has helped raise substantial funds for community initiatives.
Beyond hockey, he appears at cross-sport events that bring together Boston’s athletic communities. These appearances help strengthen the connections between different fan bases in the city’s rich sports landscape.
His broadcasting experience from 98.5 The Sports Hub has positioned him as a respected voice in Boston media circles. This allows him to advocate for hockey’s growth in the region.
Furthering the Legacy
Judd Sirott’s arrival as the Boston Bruins play-by-play announcer marks a new chapter in the storied franchise’s broadcasting tradition. His approach honors the past while bringing fresh energy to one of hockey’s most iconic teams.
Inspiring Future Talent
Sirott has embraced his role as a mentor in Boston’s sports media landscape. Young broadcasters frequently cite his accessible style and preparation techniques as influential in their own careers.
He regularly participates in broadcasting workshops at local colleges. There, he shares insights gained from his extensive Chicago radio background and his time with the Bruins.
“The responsibility of representing an Original Six Team comes with an obligation to develop the next generation,” Sirott noted during a recent event at TD Garden.
His commitment extends to creating internship opportunities at NESN. There, Sean McGrail has praised Sirott’s dedication to nurturing emerging talent in hockey broadcasting.
Connections to Boston Sports Icons
Sirott has skillfully woven himself into Boston’s rich sports tapestry. He’s frequently acknowledged the groundwork laid by legendary Bruins broadcaster Fred Cusick, whose 45-year career set the standard for hockey play-by-play.
Charlie Jacobs, part of the Bruins ownership group, has commended Sirott’s efforts to connect with franchise greats and incorporate their perspectives into broadcasts.
“He understands this isn’t just about calling games—it’s about carrying forward a century of tradition,” Jacobs remarked at a recent press event.
Sirott regularly hosts the “Bruins At 100” program, featuring interviews with team legends. His metal music appreciation, surprisingly revealed in a NESN profile interview, has even helped him connect with Boston’s younger fans while maintaining the gravitas expected from the voice of a historic franchise.
Industry Perspectives
Judd Sirott’s arrival as the Boston Bruins’ play-by-play announcer marks a significant shift in the local sports broadcasting landscape. His background and approach bring fresh perspectives to how NHL games are called in one of hockey’s most passionate markets.
Changes in Sports Broadcasting
The sports broadcasting industry has evolved dramatically in recent years, with digital platforms creating new opportunities and challenges. Sirott joins NESN at a time when regional sports networks are adapting to changing viewer habits and expectations.
Traditional TV broadcasts now compete with streaming services and social media highlights. This transition requires announcers like Sirott to develop skills beyond just calling the action.
Before joining the Bruins’ broadcast team, Sirott worked in radio at 98.5 The Sports Hub, giving him valuable experience in audio-only storytelling that translates well to television.
The National Hockey League has seen broadcasters increasingly focus on analytics and technical aspects of the game, an area where Sirott’s preparation and attention to detail shine.
The Role of a Play-by-Play Announcer
A play-by-play announcer serves as the narrative voice guiding viewers through the game’s action. In hockey specifically, the rapid pace demands quick thinking and precise terminology.
Sirott’s approach to play-by-play involves meticulous preparation before each broadcast. He studies player statistics, team trends, and storylines to provide context during games.
The modern NHL announcer must balance traditional game calling with entertainment value. Viewers expect both accurate descriptions and engaging commentary.
Sirott has demonstrated his ability to work effectively with color analysts. This creates a conversational dynamic that enhances the viewing experience. This chemistry is essential for maintaining audience engagement throughout three-hour broadcasts.
As the new voice of the Bruins, Sirott faces the challenge of establishing his own identity. He also needs to respect the legacy of his predecessor, Jack Edwards, who was known for his passionate and sometimes controversial style.
