Bill Hewitt (sportscaster) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bill Hewitt
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | December 6, 1928 Toronto, Ontario, Canada
|
| Died | December 25, 1996 (aged 68) Port Perry, Ontario, Canada
|
| Occupation | Sportscaster |
| Years active | 1951–1981 |
| Parent(s) |
|
| Family | W. A. Hewitt (grandfather) |
Meet Foster William Alfred Hewitt, often known as Bill Hewitt! He was a famous Canadian sportscaster who brought exciting sports moments to life on radio and TV. Born on December 6, 1928, Bill followed in the footsteps of his famous father, Foster Hewitt, who was also a legendary hockey broadcaster. His grandfather, W. A. Hewitt, was a well-known journalist for the Toronto Star. Bill Hewitt shared his passion for sports with millions of fans across Canada.
Contents
Bill Hewitt's Early Life and Sports
Before becoming a sportscaster, Bill Hewitt was a talented athlete himself! While attending Upper Canada College in Toronto, Ontario, he played competitive football and hockey. He also showed his speed and skill in track & field events.
Starting His Broadcasting Career
After finishing school, Bill Hewitt started his career in broadcasting. His first job was at a radio station called CJRL in Kenora, Ontario. Later, he became the sports director at CFOS in Owen Sound, Ontario. He then held the same important role at CKBB in Barrie.
Joining His Father in Toronto
In 1951, when Bill was 23 years old, his father, Foster Hewitt, started a new radio station in Toronto called CKFH. Bill became the sports director there. This was a big step in his career!
In the mid-1950s, Bill started filling in for his father on Toronto Maple Leafs hockey broadcasts. His dad was sometimes busy covering other big events for the CBC, like the Ice Hockey World Championships or the Winter Olympics. This gave Bill a chance to show his skills to a wider audience.
Becoming the Voice of Hockey Night in Canada
By 1958, both Bill and his father were working together on Hockey Night in Canada games that featured the Toronto Maple Leafs. Bill was the "play-by-play" announcer, which means he described all the action as it happened. His dad was the "color commentator," who added interesting facts and opinions about the game.
Starting in 1963, his dad went back to broadcasting on the radio. Bill then became the main TV voice for the Toronto Maple Leafs, bringing the excitement of hockey into homes across Canada.
Retirement and Legacy
In 1981, Bill Hewitt had to stop broadcasting due to health issues at the age of 53. Even though his career ended earlier than expected, his contributions to sports broadcasting were remembered. In 2007, the Hockey Hall of Fame honored Bill Hewitt with the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award. This award celebrates excellence in hockey broadcasting, a fitting tribute to his family's legacy in the sport.
Personal Life
Bill Hewitt passed away on December 25, 1996. He was buried in Stone Church Cemetery, which is located east of Beaverton, Ontario.
See also
- Notable families in the NHL
