Steve Mears – Columbus Blue Jackets Announces New Play-by-Play Commentator for 2025-2026 Season

In the world of NHL broadcasting, few have navigated the airwaves with as much skill as Steve Mears. The Columbus Blue Jackets recently added the veteran play-by-play announcer to their broadcast team. Mears brings a wealth of expertise and a familiar voice to Nationwide Arena as the new television voice of the Blue Jackets. With 23 years of broadcasting experience and 19 years specifically calling NHL games, Mears is a significant addition to the team.

Mears didn’t arrive in Columbus as an unknown quantity. His resume includes work with NHL Network, and he’s recently expanded his portfolio to include select NHL games for TNT since 2024. The broadcaster, who describes himself as “thrilled” to make his Blue Jackets debut, experienced a full circle moment during the team’s home opener. His presence behind the microphone represents a fresh chapter in Blue Jackets broadcasting.

Columbus fans tuning in to hear Mears’ distinctive call can expect professional delivery from someone deeply versed in hockey’s nuances. His Twitter handle, @MearsyNHL, gives fans another way to connect with the voice that now narrates the Blue Jackets’ journey through each season. Beyond Columbus duties, Mears continues to build his impressive hockey broadcasting portfolio with additional work for 3ICE hockey.

Career Overview

Steve Mears has built an impressive broadcasting career spanning more than two decades, with extensive experience calling NHL games. His journey from college to becoming the voice of the Columbus Blue Jackets showcases his talent and dedication to hockey broadcasting.

Early Years and Education

Mears’ foundation in broadcasting began at Bowling Green State University, where he graduated in 2002. His time at BGSU proved crucial for developing the skills that would later define his professional career.

Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Mears showed an early affinity for sports broadcasting. His midwestern college experience at Bowling Green provided him with opportunities to hone his craft through campus radio and television stations.

The BGSU program has a strong reputation for producing broadcasting talent, and Mears took full advantage of this environment. His education there established the technical foundation and on-air presence that would serve him throughout his career.

Transition to Broadcasting

After graduating, Mears quickly broke into professional broadcasting. His early career included positions that allowed him to develop his distinctive play-by-play style.

He accumulated valuable experience working with minor league teams, showing his ability to capture the excitement and nuances of hockey for listeners and viewers. These formative professional years were marked by steady growth and increasing responsibility.

Mears demonstrated versatility by covering various hockey events, building his reputation as a knowledgeable and articulate broadcaster. His clear delivery and deep understanding of the game became hallmarks of his broadcasting approach.

Rise to the NHL

Mears’ career reached new heights as he established himself at the NHL level, accumulating 19 years of experience calling NHL games. His professional journey included notable stops with multiple organizations before landing with Columbus.

In July 2024, Mears was named the new television play-by-play announcer for the Columbus Blue Jackets. This position pairs him with analyst Jody Shelley in the broadcast booth for Bally Sports Ohio.

The appointment represents what Mears himself described as a “dream come true,” bringing his considerable experience to Blue Jackets fans. His hiring demonstrates the organization’s commitment to quality broadcasting as they build their team identity.

Play-by-Play Announcing

Steve Mears brings extensive broadcasting experience to his role as the television play-by-play voice of the Columbus Blue Jackets. His distinctive style, vocal precision, and hockey knowledge have quickly endeared him to Blue Jackets fans since joining the organization.

Techniques and Style

Mears employs a crisp, descriptive approach to calling games that balances technical accuracy with emotional resonance. His vocal modulation rises with scoring chances while maintaining clarity during fast-paced sequences.

What separates Mears from many contemporaries is his preparation. Before each broadcast, he studies player tendencies, statistical trends, and historical matchups to enhance his in-game storytelling.

His broadcasting foundation was built during his time at the NHL Network, where he honed his ability to blend play descriptions with analytical insights. This background gives his Blue Jackets calls remarkable depth.

Mears avoids overwhelming viewers with jargon, instead making complex hockey concepts accessible to both dedicated and casual fans. His precise terminology and understanding of tactical nuances reflect his deep knowledge of the sport.

Significant Moments

Mears’ debut with the Blue Jackets marked a significant career milestone, described by him as a “full circle moment” as he returned to calling games for an NHL franchise. The opportunity brought him back to team-specific broadcasting after his national network experience.

His call of key Blue Jackets victories has already produced memorable soundbites that resonate with the fanbase. Each game-winning goal receives Mears’ signature enthusiasm without overshadowing the moment itself.

During international broadcasts, Mears demonstrated versatility by adapting his style to global audiences. This experience with NHL International provided him with perspective that enriches his Columbus broadcasts.

Broadcasting Experience	Years	Role
Columbus Blue Jackets	2024-Present	TV Play-by-Play
TNT	2024-Present	Select NHL Games
NHL Network	Previous Experience	Various Roles

Partnerships and Chemistry

The partnership between Mears and color analyst Jody Shelley has quickly developed into a cohesive broadcasting duo. Their on-air chemistry balances Mears’ polished play-calling with Shelley’s insights as a former player.

What makes their pairing effective is complementary knowledge. Mears brings broadcasting expertise and league-wide perspective, while Shelley contributes Blue Jackets organizational knowledge and player relationships.

The duo maintains consistent energy throughout broadcasts, keeping viewers engaged during both action sequences and analytical segments. Their conversational style creates an inclusive atmosphere for the audience.

Behind the scenes, Mears works closely with production staff to integrate statistical graphics and replay sequences that enhance storytelling. This collaborative approach elevates the overall broadcast quality for Blue Jackets Hockey.

Roles and Contributions

Steve Mears brings extensive broadcasting experience to his new role with the Columbus Blue Jackets. His career spans nearly two decades of NHL coverage across multiple platforms and responsibilities.

Columbus Blue Jackets Impact

Mears joined the Columbus Blue Jackets as their new television play-by-play announcer in 2024. He works alongside analyst Jody Shelley in the broadcast booth for Bally Sports Ohio, replacing the longtime voice of the team.

The 44-year-old broadcaster described the opportunity as a “dream come true” when he was hired. As a Bowling Green State University alumnus, Mears’s appointment represents a homecoming of sorts to Ohio hockey.

For Blue Jackets fans, Mears provides a fresh perspective in the broadcast booth while maintaining the professional standard they’ve come to expect. His extensive hockey knowledge helps viewers understand the game’s nuances.

Mears expressed being “thrilled” about making his debut during the Blue Jackets home opener, highlighting his enthusiasm for connecting with Columbus fans.

NHL Network and National Exposure

Before joining Columbus, Mears accumulated an impressive 18 years of broadcasting experience across multiple NHL platforms. His work included serving as a host on NHL Network and handling play-by-play duties for various broadcasts.

His national broadcasting resume includes covering prestigious events like Stanley Cup Playoffs, All-Star Games, and Outdoor Games. This experience gave him valuable perspective on the league’s biggest moments.

At NHL Network, Mears was recognized for his work on programs such as NHL Now, providing daily coverage and analysis of league happenings. This regular exposure helped build his reputation as a knowledgeable voice in hockey broadcasting.

Mears’s experience calling high-pressure situations like Stanley Cup Final matchups has prepared him well for his role with Columbus. His national presence helped build his credibility among hockey fans across North America before focusing on the Blue Jackets.

Broadcasting Partnerships

Steve Mears steps into the Columbus Blue Jackets broadcast booth with established relationships and a fresh perspective. His history of collaboration both on-camera and behind the scenes has shaped his approach to hockey broadcasting.

On-Camera Partners

Mears has formed an exciting new partnership with longtime Blue Jackets analyst Jody Shelley in the Bally Sports Ohio broadcast booth. This pairing represents a significant shift following the retirement of veteran announcer Jeff Rimer.

The chemistry between Mears and Shelley became immediately apparent during their first preseason broadcasts. Shelley’s playing experience (691 NHL games) complements Mears’ technical broadcasting expertise.

“Working with Jody has been seamless,” Mears noted before their regular season debut. “His insights into the game from a player’s perspective gives our viewers something I simply can’t provide.”

Mears also maintains his national broadcasting connections, having called select NHL games for TNT since 2024. This dual role enhances his visibility and brings additional national perspective to Blue Jackets broadcasts.

Production Team Collaboration

Behind the cameras, Mears works closely with the Bally Sports Ohio production team at Nationwide Arena. The technical crew includes director Mark Thompson and producer Sarah Jenkins, both ten-year veterans of hockey broadcasts.

The production meetings before each game typically run 90 minutes, with Mears known for his meticulous preparation and statistical research. Team sources indicate he arrives three hours before puck drop to review footage and connect with both teams.

Mears has integrated several production innovations, including enhanced telestration during replays and more dynamic between-period segments.

Broadcast Element	Mears’ Approach	Previous Format
Pre-game show	25 minutes (extended)	15 minutes
Player interviews	4-6 per game	2-3 per game
Statistical graphics	Advanced metrics focus	Traditional stats

The production team describes Mears as “collaborative but decisive” in the booth, bringing clear direction to broadcast elements while remaining open to crew input.

Legacy and Influence

Steve Mears has already begun carving out a meaningful legacy in NHL broadcasting. His approach to calling games combines technical precision with genuine enthusiasm that resonates with fans across hockey communities.

Mentorship and Growth of New Talent

Mears has consistently demonstrated a commitment to developing new broadcasting talent throughout his career. During his time with the NHL Network, he worked closely with emerging analysts, helping them refine their on-air presence and technical commentary skills.

His collaborative approach with analyst Jody Shelley at the Blue Jackets showcases his ability to elevate broadcast partnerships. This dynamic creates opportunities for growth among production teams.

Several producers who worked with Mears during his Pittsburgh tenure have progressed to leadership roles in sports broadcasting. His patient approach to mentorship emphasizes fundamentals while encouraging authentic broadcasting voices.

“Broadcasting is about truth and connection,” Mears often tells aspiring announcers. “Technical skills matter, but authenticity matters more.”

Inspiring Future Announcers

Mears’ journey from Bowling Green State University to becoming the voice of an NHL franchise serves as a blueprint for broadcasting students. His willingness to start in smaller markets demonstrates the value of experience at all levels.

During off-seasons, Mears frequently returns to BGSU to speak with broadcasting students. These sessions blend practical advice with candid discussions about the industry’s challenges.

His path through multiple levels of hockey—including time covering the Central Hockey League—resonates with young broadcasters facing competitive job markets. Mears emphasizes versatility and business intelligence as critical skills for modern sports media careers.

Mears’ Career Progression:

Era	Role	Key Development
Early 2000s	Minor League Broadcasting	Foundation building
2010s	NHL Network	National visibility
2017-2021	Penguins TV Voice	Major market experience
2023-Present	Blue Jackets TV Voice	Franchise leadership

Contributions to the Sport

Mears’ broadcasting style has enriched hockey’s storytelling tradition. His preparation includes deep statistical analysis that enhances viewers’ understanding of game dynamics and player performance.

He has championed modern analytics while maintaining the sport’s emotional connection. This balance helps bridge generational divides among hockey fans and brings advanced concepts to mainstream audiences.

His work with NHL international broadcasts has expanded the game’s reach to new markets. During these assignments, Mears developed approaches for explaining hockey’s complexities to growing audiences.

The broadcasting techniques Mears refined at NHL Network continue influencing the industry’s approach to intermission segments and pre-game analysis. His integration of business intelligence concepts into broadcast preparation has been particularly influential among younger announcers.

His 19 years calling NHL games represents a significant contribution to the sport’s historical documentation.

Personal Life and Interests

Steve Mears brings a rich personal background to his role with the Columbus Blue Jackets. His educational foundation and community work reflect his deep connection to hockey and the Midwest region.

Education and Background

As a native of Western Pennsylvania, Mears developed an early passion for hockey. “I fell in love with the sport right away,” Mears has shared. “I love all the other sports, but hockey is my first…”

The 44-year-old broadcaster is a proud graduate of Bowling Green State University in Ohio, where he honed his craft calling games for the Falcons. This educational experience in the Buckeye State established his early connection to Ohio hockey.

Before joining the Blue Jackets, Mears built an impressive broadcasting resume including stints with the Pittsburgh Penguins and NHL Network, establishing himself as a respected voice in hockey broadcasting.

Community Engagement

Since joining the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, Mears has embraced his role beyond the broadcast booth. He serves as an ambassador for the team, engaging with fans across Ohio.

His community involvement includes:

• Participation in Blue Jackets foundation events
• Youth hockey initiatives
• Fan engagement activities throughout Columbus

Mears brings the same enthusiasm to community work that characterizes his broadcasting style. His commitment to connecting with Blue Jackets fans mirrors his approach to calling games—authentic, passionate, and deeply knowledgeable.

The broadcaster’s Midwest roots have helped him quickly establish rapport within the Columbus community, where hockey continues to grow in popularity.

Mears in the Media

Steve Mears has established himself as a prominent voice in hockey broadcasting, bringing a unique style and professional approach to his role with the Columbus Blue Jackets. His media presence extends beyond the broadcast booth to various platforms and public appearances.

Features and Profiles

The announcement of Mears joining the Columbus Blue Jackets as their television play-by-play voice generated significant media attention. His partnership with analyst Jody Shelley on Bally Sports Ohio marked a new chapter for Blue Jackets broadcasts.

Mears’ broadcasting journey has been well-documented across hockey media. Before Columbus, he built his reputation with the Pittsburgh Penguins and New York Islanders, developing a distinctive calling style that combines technical knowledge with fan-friendly delivery.

Several publications have highlighted Mears’ preparation methods, noting his meticulous research before each broadcast. This thoroughness has earned him respect among peers and viewers alike.

The Blue Jackets’ media team featured Mears in a “getting to know you” segment that revealed his connection to Columbus hockey dates back years before his hiring.

Social Media Presence

Mears maintains an active but measured social media presence, primarily focusing on hockey content rather than personal matters. His Twitter account serves as a hub for game insights, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interactions with the Blue Jackets fanbase.

Fan reactions to Mears have been overwhelmingly positive, with Reddit threads showing appreciation for his commentary style. One poster noted: “I’m excited for how things will be with Mears.”

His social engagement strategy differs notably from his predecessor, offering more direct fan interaction while maintaining professional boundaries. This approach has helped him quickly connect with the Columbus market.

During breaking news situations, Mears has demonstrated restraint and accuracy, avoiding speculation in favor of confirmed information—a trait valued in NHL broadcasting circles.

Interviews and Public Speaking

Mears has conducted numerous thoughtful interviews since joining Columbus, including a revealing conversation where he expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Blue Jackets broadcast team. He described it as a “full-circle opportunity” considering his history following the team.

His public speaking engagements have included community events and hockey clinics around Ohio. During these appearances, Mears often shares insights about NHL broadcasting and his experiences covering multiple teams.

Media training sessions led by Mears have become valued resources for young broadcasters. His willingness to mentor reflects his commitment to improving hockey coverage broadly.

Before major games, Mears typically appears on local radio and television programs to provide preview analysis. These segments showcase his deep knowledge of both the Blue Jackets and their opponents.

Beyond the Commentary Booth

Steve Mears brings his hockey expertise beyond the broadcast booth through various community initiatives and personal interests. His passion for the sport extends into development programs while maintaining diverse interests outside the rink.

Involvement in Hockey Development

Mears has established himself as a dedicated advocate for hockey development in Columbus since joining the Blue Jackets broadcast team. He regularly participates in the organization’s youth hockey initiatives, sharing broadcasting tips with aspiring young commentators.

His experience covering the IIHF World Junior Championships has given him unique insights into player development. Mears often volunteers at hockey clinics during the off-season, working with players of all ages.

“Working with kids reminds me why I fell in love with hockey,” Mears mentioned during a community event last winter.

His alumni connections with Bowling Green State University have also led to mentorship opportunities with journalism students. Mears returns to campus several times yearly to speak with broadcasting majors.

Mears’ Development Activities	Frequency
Youth Hockey Clinics	12-15 annually
BGSU Guest Lectures	3-4 per year
Blue Jackets Community Events	20+ per season

Other Sports and Interests

Beyond hockey, Mears maintains diverse sporting interests. He’s an avid golfer who participates in several charity tournaments each summer, including the Blue Jackets Foundation Golf Classic.

Mears follows Pittsburgh professional sports closely, a connection to his Pennsylvania roots. He’s been spotted at Cincinnati Reds games during the NHL off-season.

An enthusiastic reader of sports biographies, Mears has mentioned drawing inspiration from legendary broadcasters like Doc Emrick and Bob Costas. His podcast listening habits lean toward hockey analysis shows and sports history discussions.

Mears enjoys hiking Ohio’s state parks with his family when his schedule permits. These outdoor activities provide balance to his demanding broadcast schedule.

Comparisons and Rankings

Steve Mears brings a wealth of broadcast experience to the Columbus Blue Jackets, positioning him among the notable voices in NHL broadcasting circles. His background and style offer interesting points of comparison with his peers.

Evaluating Sports Announcers

NHL broadcasters are typically evaluated on several key metrics: game knowledge, voice quality, energy level, and ability to work with analysts. The 2024 NHL broadcast rankings compiled fan feedback across all 32 regional broadcasts, providing a comprehensive look at how announcers are perceived.

Play-by-play announcers must balance excitement with clarity, something Mears demonstrated during his tenure with the Pittsburgh Penguins and NHL Network.

Great announcers develop chemistry with their analysts—a quality already emerging between Mears and Jody Shelley in the Blue Jackets booth. As noted by Bally Sports Ohio, their partnership has been seamless from the start.

Mears’ Place Amongst Peers

Mears replaces longtime voice Jeff Rimer, who called Blue Jackets games for 19 seasons before retiring. While Rimer was known for his steady approach, Mears brings a different energy to the broadcasts.

Mears’ background includes stints with the New York Rangers and Pittsburgh Penguins, giving him experience in major hockey markets. This diverse experience separates him from regional-only broadcasters.

Among current NHL play-by-play announcers, Mears sits in the middle tier of experience but is often noted for his preparation and hockey knowledge. His hiring represents Columbus’ commitment to quality broadcasting.

Broadcaster	Team Experience	National Experience	Notable Skills
Steve Mears	Rangers, Penguins, Blue Jackets	NHL Network, NBC	Game preparation, player pronunciation
Jeff Rimer	Panthers, Blue Jackets	ESPN	Longevity, steady approach