Detroit native becomes National Hockey League’s first African American play-by-play broadcaster

By Stone Andrews On Dec 1, 2021

DETROIT – Everette Fitzhugh, a native of Detroit, pursued his professional hockey dreams without even having to lace his skates. Today he works as a broadcaster for the Seattle Kraken.

“To see myself, who grew up at 8 Mile and Myers in northwest Detroit – the first professional goal I set was to get into the NHL,” said Fitzhugh.

Fitzhugh achieved this goal after becoming the first African-American NHL play-by-play broadcaster with the Seattle Kraken.

“My colleagues said to me: ‘Blacks don’t play hockey. Why don’t you play soccer or basketball? ‘”Said Fitzhugh.

For the first time, he’s calling a game in his hometown of Detroit.

“I’ve circled this game on our calendar for a very long time. It feels great to be back in Detroit, the place where I fell in love with hockey and my hometown. It’s amazing, ”said Fitzhugh.

Even if he acts as the channel for the opposing team, the Detroit Red Wings will always hold a special place in his heart.

“I became a hockey fanatic during the Red Wings’ heyday. I knew that one day I wanted to work in sports. I thought, ‘Man, it would be so cool to be able to call a game in my hometown or be in hockey in my hometown,’ “Fitzhugh said.

He said the only thing that could improve the experience would be if the game was played in an old location.

“If it were Joe. I think it would be a little fluffy. But it’s still a great, great experience, ”said Fitzhugh.

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