Beloved Chicago Blackhawks announcer Pat Foley calls hockey’s last game

CHICAGO (WLS) — Beloved hockey announcer Pat Foley, who has been with the Chicago Blackhawks for 39 seasons, announced his final game Thursday night.

With the United Center on their feet and the Blackhawks tapping their sticks, Foley offered his thanks to the crowd.

“I always say I’m the luckiest guy in the room, and tonight is no exception. It’s been a great ride, and this career has exceeded my wildest hopes,” he said.

It was a bittersweet evening for the fans.

“Yeah, I mean, it won’t be the same. I mean, you’ve heard his voice for so many years,” Blackhawks fan Lisa Brewerton said.

“I like coming to games, but I like staying home and listening to him. I will miss him very much,” said Blackhawks fan Kathy Dolansky.

The 67-year-old Glenview native is hanging up his helmet after a career spanning more than 40 years, including 39 with the Blackhawks.

“When he says ‘Tree, tree, tree left in the third,’ it makes me laugh all the time,” Brewerton said.

Foley was there for the championships but also for the off years. At one point he was even fired by the Blackhawks, only to return seasons later.

But Foley himself was a constant; generous in its praise, fearless in its criticism, its soaring tenor ringing with honesty.

“It’s been a pleasure and an honor for me to try to serve the biggest fans in the world,” Foley said.

Many say Foley has earned his place on Chicago’s Mount Rushmore sportscasters.