Following Bob Cole’s passing, accolades flood in for the hockey icon, celebrated for his lifelong devotion to the beloved sport.
At 90, Cole bid farewell in his hometown, St. John’s. Renowned for his vibrant commentary on Hockey Night in Canada, his broadcasting legacy resonates deeply.
Broadcaster Brian Rogers, who shares ties to St. John’s teams, reflects on the profound loss, stating,
“It was difficult to grasp the news of Cole’s passing.”
“It’s a tough day for hockey for Canadians, from Newfoundland Labrador to British Columbia, because the man was an absolute legend,” Rogers told.
“And there’ll be nobody that’s presently employed — or that was — that’ll ever match his skill set, in my humble estimation.”
He also said Cole was let “out to pasture too early,” especially when compared to contemporary commentators. He said Cole described the game as it was happening and he taught Rogers to do the same, which Rogers said is what fans want.
“They don’t want five guys reciting stats.”
Rogers noted that, for fellow broadcasters, Cole served as an unwitting mentor, imparting invaluable wisdom.
Cole’s guidance on advancing professionally resonated deeply with Rogers, who eagerly embraced the opportunity to improve.
“The thing that I picked up most for Bob was his passion for the game,” said Rogers.
Synonymous With The Sport
Glenn Stanford, a seasoned hockey executive, emphasized Cole’s inseparable connection to the sport, labeling his passing as a somber day for both hockey and the province.
“For most of us, he was the voice of our youth when we were watching hockey or listening to hockey,” said Stanford.
“Those of my vintage, and certainly 65 and over, we grew up with Bob Cole. We grew up with Bob Cole on Wednesday nights with a black and white TV on Springdale Street where I grew up.”
Having developed a personal rapport with him, Stanford revealed Cole’s aversion to the limelight and his humility.
“And cantankerous at times, as well. I mean for those of us who know Bob, he was a very unique individual,” remarked Stanford.
Reflecting on an incident from 2001, Stanford recounted Cole’s reaction when asked to drop the puck during an exhibition game, only to discover the revealing of the Bob Cole Media Centre at what is now the Mary Brown’s Centre.
Stanford recalled, “He wasn’t too happy” with me afterward.
