Cherry staying with HNIC through 2011-12 season

Don Cherry's not going anywhere, at least not for another season of Hockey Night in Canada.

The outspoken commentator renewed his contract with HNIC through the 2011-2012 season, CBC announced on Saturday.

"Don has been a part of the CBC Hockey Night in Canada family since 1980, generating passion and debate among hockey fans everywhere," said Kirstine Stewart, executive vice-president of CBC English Services.

"Hockey Night in Canada, with Don at the desk for its 59th season, will continue to bring the very best of hockey programming on all of its platforms to Canadians everywhere."

Cherry will continue to co-host his hugely popular first intermission Coach's Corner segment with Ron MacLean every Saturday night and through the duration of the Stanley Cup playoffs next season.

"We join millions of fans in congratulating Don on his new contract and wishing him continued success as the declarative voice of CBC's definitive hockey broadcast," said NHL commissioner Gary Bettman.

"Don's knowledge of the sport is exceeded only by his love for it and we are proud of his enduring connection with the game and the National Hockey League. He truly is one of a kind, and it is an honour to consider him a friend."

The 77-year-old Canadian icon joined Hockey Night in Canada in 1980 after a successful coaching career with the Boston Bruins and Colorado Rockies from 1974-80, winning the Jack Adams coach of the year award in 1976 during his time with Boston.