Everett Fitzhugh has become the unmistakable radio voice of the Seattle Kraken, preserving a lineage that began when Norman Albert first transmitted an amateur hockey game in 1923. His career mirrors the evolution of the sport’s coverage, moving from the crackle of early wireless sets to today’s high‑definition digital streams.
A Century‑Old Legacy in a Digital Age
Albert’s historic broadcast of the first NHL game on February 14, 1923, set a precedent for play‑by‑play storytelling that still resonates. Decades later, Fitzhugh recalls growing up in Detroit, a city where hockey was more than a game and radio was the primary conduit for fans to feel the action.
The NHL landscape has changed dramatically. Budget constraints have forced many franchises, including the Columbus Blue Jackets, to abandon radio in favor of TV simulcasts. This shift has left a void for diehard listeners who value the intimate, imagination‑driven experience that only audio can provide.
Fitzhugh’s journey from a Detroit enthusiast to a Seattle‑based broadcaster illustrates the personal connections that radio can forge. He now leads a three‑person radio team — Al Kinisky and Mike Benton joining him — marking their sixth season behind the mics, a testament to stability in an industry prone to flux.
Playoff Hopes and the Radio Connection
Despite the broader retreat from radio, Fitzhugh remains confident that the Kraken can secure a playoff berth in the 2026‑27 season. He argues that live commentary, especially for newer fans unfamiliar with terms like the red line or icing, remains indispensable for building a knowledgeable fan base.
The radio broadcasts also serve as a bridge for young skaters and community members who rely on the vivid descriptions to visualize plays in real time. This personal touch, according to longtime supporters, cannot be fully replicated by visual feeds alone.
Looking Forward
As teams grapple with financial pressures, the future of sports radio remains uncertain. Yet for Fitzhugh and his colleagues, the mission is clear: keep the tradition alive, nurture the next generation of fans, and prove that a well‑crafted voice can still shape the narrative of a fast‑moving sport.