It’s only been four months since Robert Johnson graduated from St. Thomas, but he’s already back and excited for the action.
Johnson is the new commentator for Tommies hockey, replacing Randy Corey who had been the commentator for the last six years.
“I think it’s great to stick with the school. I loved my time here, and if I could help in anyway and get paid, there’s nothing wrong with that at all,” said the journalism alumni.
Johnson is well-qualified, having been the sports coordinator for three of his four years at STU. Over that time he got to know many of the sports teams and staff.
When Randy Corey decided not to come back as commentator, director of athletics Mike Eagles asked Johnson to come in for an interview. Soon after, Johnson found out he got the job.
Johnson was involved with all sports as sports coordinator, but there’s no denying that hockey was his favourite. Johnson could often be found at the old Lady Beaverbrook Rink, watching his Tommies try to put the puck in the net.
“In my four years here, the STU men’s hockey had never made the playoffs once. I didn’t like that too much. I wanted one year where they made the playoffs, so now that I am going to be the play-by-play man I still have a chance to see them get in,” he said.
Johnson will be running the show for both men’s and women’s hockey.
“The women had a great year last year, and I think they are going to be awesome this year too.”
Tommies TV broadcasts the games online. Johnson thinks it’s a great way to increase viewership, as it allows fans who can’t make it to the rink to watch anyway.
“I’m going to be heavy onto social media. I’d like to get the word across that we have a good team this year, and we have a new arena. I don’t think we are going to be basement dwellers this year.”
Johnson’s experiences as the sports coordinator run deeper than just hockey. His favourite moment from his time at STU was actually a basketball game.
“Last year was the basketball women’s playoffs,” said Johnson. “The girls won the championship, and that was great. My girlfriend was on the team at the time, and that was probably my favourite STU memory. ”
Johnson has done the play-by-play for one game so far. It was not broadcast, but allowed Johnson to get in the zone for the upcoming season.
STU will get to hear their new commentator for the first time this Saturday, when STU hosts the Royal Military Collage in an exhibition game.
“I’m a little bit nervous, but I’m excited to get things going.”
This is an updated story. Incorrect information appeared in an earlier version. We apologize and regret the error.
