Hockey fans will miss Tim Sampsell

STEELHOUNDS

Ohhh Doctor! Hockey fans will miss Tim Sampsell

Fanfare:

The Fans’ Broadcaster — that’s how I and many who have followed the Youngstown SteelHounds’ Tim Sampsell would sum up this special individual.

No, I do not live in Youngstown; in fact I’m from Kingston, Ontario in Canada. My grandson played for an opposing team in the CHL. I tuned in to listen to a game, and Sampsell captured my attention and my loyalty. My grandson no longer plays in the CHL — yet, I still listened.

He is the epitome of “Old-Time Hockey.” His natural enthusiasm and love of the game and the SteelHounds was displayed for all to hear and feel through his broadcasts.

I literally felt as if I was there, every bang into the boards, every dash past the blue line, every goal, every OHHH DOCTOR! How lucky for Youngstown to have a recognizable voice to represent their team. And now the latest blow — Tim Sampsell has been released by the team. I couldn’t believe it; I don’t pretend to understand it. His appeal transcends the city limits of Youngstown. I know that the team has lost countless staff and two assistant GMs in the last two seasons. Any organization will benefit from the infusion of spirit that Sampsell most generously exudes. I will continue to follow his career, I hope he knows how special his talent is.

Victor Micele

Kingston, Ontario