Listen to this article
Estimated 2 minutes
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
London Knights games will have a new home on the radio this season.
The Knights announced Wednesday that Blackburn Media Inc. and Brand One Digital will become the team’s exclusive local radio and streaming media partners. The move ends a decade-long partnership with Corus radio station AM980.
Classic Rock 98.1 FM will broadcast all evening home and away games during the upcoming Ontario Hockey League season, along with pre-game coverage, intermissions and post-game highlights.
Mike Stubbs, who has called Knights games for about 29 years, will continue as the team’s play-by-play voice.
“This is incredible,” Stubbs told CBC News. “You don’t ever want to stop and step off that ride.”
Stubbs said the move from AM radio to the FM band will provide a different listening experience, while Blackburn’s plans for podcasts, digital content and a new Knights app could make coverage more accessible to fans.
“I think fans are going to be able to find coverage however they like to find coverage,” he said.
Knights vice president and general manager Mark Hunter said the organization is proud to enter a new era of broadcast and digital media with Blackburn Media Inc.
“We are excited to work with a locally-owned company and to continue the great tradition of delivering London Knights hockey to our fans in London and the surrounding area,” Hunter said in a news release.
Games will also be streamed through the station’s website and the iHeartRadio app. A new London Knights radio app is expected to launch in 2027.
Stubbs said fans can expect the same enthusiasm and coverage they’ve come to expect from Knights broadcasts when the team takes to the new airwaves.
“I just love what I’m able to do,” he said. “I’m lucky, and I’m excited.”
The Knights have not yet announced the full broadcast schedule or who will provide colour commentary alongside Stubbs.