Seattle Kraken hire Everett Fitzhugh as 1st Black team broadcaster in NHL
Former ECHL play-by-play man says reaching NHL was always his goal
The Seattle Kraken have hired Everett Fitzhugh as the club's first broadcaster, the team announced Friday.
Fitzhugh is believed to be the first Black team broadcaster hired by an NHL franchise. He has spent the past five seasons as the director of media relations and broadcasting for the Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL. Fitzhugh served as the play-by-play broadcaster for the club.
"As someone who's worked in hockey for over a decade and who has a long-held passion for broadcasting hockey, to be named a part of the broadcast and content team for a brand-new NHL franchise — particularly one with an organization as strong as the Kraken — is a dream come true," Fitzhugh said in a statement. "Getting to the NHL has always been my goal."
Seattle CEO Tod Leiweke said Fitzhugh came highly recommended by those the team consulted with in making the hire. Fitzhugh's exact role will be determined at a later date.
Fitzhugh was one of three front-office hires announced by the team. Seattle also hired Jonny Greco as the senior vice-president of live entertainment and game presentation, and Lamont Buford will serve as vice-president of game presentation.
WATCH | Fitzhugh hopes his hiring inspires next generation:
