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Rod Black
Rod Black
Rod Black
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Rod Black (born September 28, 1962) is a Canadian sports announcer best known for his work with CTV Sports and TSN from 1990 to 2021.[1] He is now a host and brand ambassador for NorthStar Bets, a brand of NorthStar Gaming.[2]

Key Information

Education

[edit]

Black was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba.[3] Prior to coming onto the national scene, Black studied Creative Communications at Red River College.[1]

Career

[edit]

Black got his start as a sports announcer at the age of 19 at the local CTV affiliate (now owned station) CKY-TV where he soon became host of the Winnipeg Jets’ NHL broadcasts.[1] He also hosted CKY Sports Sunday.

By 1990, Black moved to the network's Toronto-based CTV Sports division.[1] There, he anchored events including CTV's coverage of the 1991 Canada Cup. He worked CTV's coverage of the 1992 Summer Olympics and 1994 Winter Olympics, as well as the CTV-led consortium's coverage of the 2010 Winter Olympics and the 2012 Summer Olympics.[4] He also called events for CTV Sportsnet from its launch in 1999 until CTV's acquisition of TSN, and sale of Sportsnet to Rogers, in 2001.[5]

After being reassigned to TSN, Black's broadcasting duties included play-by-play announcing for the CFL on TSN and NBA on TSN, TSN golf coverage and international hockey.[6] He has also called Canadian-based golf tournaments for the PGA Tour, bowling tournaments, curling, and boxing. He was known as the voice of figure skating in Canada, as he covered the sport as commentator for CTV and TSN coverage of figure skating.[6]

In April 2002, Black guest starred on the Canadian animated series D'Myna Leagues as Rod Blackbird, a documentary filmmaker.[7]

In addition to his sports roles, Black briefly served as a co-host of Canada AM, and in that capacity broke the news of the terrorist attacks on the United States to CTV viewers on September 11, 2001.

Black announced his departure from CTV/TSN on October 14, 2021, after spending over 30 years with the CTV / Bell Media family of networks.[1][4]

On March 24, 2022, it was announced that Black would join NorthStar Gaming as a host and brand ambassador for NorthStar Bets, providing hosting commentary for the company's social media and in-app content.[2]

Toronto Blue Jays coverage

[edit]

Black called Toronto Blue Jays games for CTV Sportsnet from 1999 to 2000 alongside Joe Carter[5] and on TSN from 2002 to 2009 with Pat Tabler.[8]

Black also co-hosted CTV's pregame coverage of the 1992 and 1993 World Series with Rob Faulds.

Awards

[edit]

In 2005, Black won the Sports Media Canada Award as Outstanding Sports Broadcaster and has earned five Gemini Award nominations for Best Sports Broadcaster.[1] In 2008, he was named to the roll of honour of the Manitoba Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association.[9] In 2013, he received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his volunteer work with Plan Canada.[10]

Personal life

[edit]

Black's son Tyler was drafted in the first round of the 2021 Major League Baseball draft by the Milwaukee Brewers.[11] Black was in attendance for Tyler's MLB debut on April 30, 2024, in Milwaukee. He was interviewed by the Bally Sports Wisconsin sideline reporter during Tyler's second at-bat and proceeded to do the play-by-play when Tyler recorded his second hit.[12]

Black is a spokesperson for Plan Canada (formerly Foster Parents Plan).[13]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Rod Black

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Rod Black (born September 28, 1962) is a Canadian sportscaster, , author, and philanthropist known for his four-decade career in sports broadcasting. began his broadcasting career at CKY TV in before joining CTV and TSN, where he reported on a wide array of sports including the NHL, NBA, MLB, CFL, PGA , , , and multiple from 1992 to 2012. After departing TSN in 2021, he continued broadcasting, including for the Canadian Elite Basketball League on TSN in 2025. He gained prominence calling Toronto Blue Jays games for CTV (1999–2000) and TSN (2002–2009), co-hosting CTV’s pregame coverage of the 1992 and , and hosting as well as prime-time Olympic shows. His notable achievements include calling historic Canadian gold medals at the and Olympics and earning five Gemini Award nominations, as well as nominations for the Canadian Screen Awards, for Best Sports Broadcaster, along with the 2005 Sports Media Award for Outstanding Sports Broadcaster. Black was inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in the media wing and received the Queen Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013 for his volunteer work with organizations such as Plan . Beyond broadcasting, Black is an accomplished , , and who supports numerous charities, including the , SickKids Hospital, Giants of Africa, the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation, and the Children’s Aid Foundation. He resides outside with his wife, Nancy.

Early life and education

Early life

Rod Black was born in 1962 in , , . He grew up in the city, which served as his hometown throughout his formative years. At the age of 18, Black secured his first job in media at the local CTV affiliate CKY-TV, marking the beginning of his involvement in sports broadcasting.

Education

Rod Black was born and raised in , , where he pursued post-secondary education in . He enrolled in the Creative Communications program at Red River College, focusing on skills essential for a career in media and journalism. During his studies, Black received an unexpected opportunity to join CKY-TV as a sports announcer at age 18, which led him to temporarily drop out of the program. He described the decision as life-changing, noting that it launched his professional career despite the interruption to his formal education. Black later completed his degree, though details on the timeline and format of his return remain limited in .

Broadcasting career

Early career

Black began his professional broadcasting career in 1981 at CKY-TV, the CTV affiliate in , , immediately following his education at Red River College. As a young sports reporter and anchor, he covered local news and sports events, contributing to the station's programming during a formative period in his development as a broadcaster. Over the next nine years, Black expanded his role at CKY-TV, becoming a familiar voice in Winnipeg's sports scene. Starting in 1985, he hosted pre- and post-game segments for the ' NHL broadcasts, conducting player interviews and offering game analysis for the team's eight seasons on the station. He also anchored CKY Sports Sunday, a weekly program highlighting key sports developments and recaps. Black's versatility at CKY-TV, spanning reporting, anchoring, and specialized hockey coverage, honed his skills in and audience engagement, setting the foundation for his national prominence. By late 1990, these experiences led to his relocation to for broader network opportunities with CTV and TSN.

CTV and TSN tenure

Rod Black joined CTV in in , transitioning from local broadcasting in to a national platform that encompassed both CTV and its TSN. This move initiated a 31-year tenure with , during which he established himself as a versatile broadcaster handling a wide array of sports programming. At CTV, Black co-hosted the popular morning program , contributing to its status as one of Canada's most-watched daytime shows and broadening his exposure beyond sports. On TSN, he took on prominent play-by-play duties for , delivering live commentary for games, and served as host for NBA on TSN, including coverage of the and . His role extended to golf events such as the Masters and the Canadian Open, where he provided hosting and analysis, as well as the CFL Draft. Black also became the signature voice for on both CTV and TSN, offering commentary on major competitions and capturing the sport's dramatic moments for Canadian audiences. His Olympic contributions were significant, providing play-by-play and analysis for five Games: the in , the in , the in , the in , and the in . Additionally, he covered international hockey tournaments, World Hockey Championships, , and events, showcasing his adaptability across disciplines. In October 2021, Black departed TSN following a mutual decision amid Bell Media's cost-cutting measures, concluding his long association with the networks after nearly four decades in broadcasting. His exit was marked by tributes highlighting his energetic style and contributions to Canadian sports media.

Toronto Blue Jays coverage

Rod Black's involvement with Toronto Blue Jays broadcasting dates back to the early 1990s, when he co-hosted CTV's pregame coverage for the team's World Series appearances in 1992 and 1993 alongside Rob Faulds. This role positioned him at the forefront of the Jays' back-to-back championships, providing analysis and excitement for Canadian audiences during pivotal postseason moments. In 1999 and 2000, Black served as the play-by-play announcer for select games on , partnering with former Jays star and hero as . Their collaboration brought a blend of Black's energetic narration and Carter's insider perspective to regular-season broadcasts, helping to engage fans during the network's early coverage of the team. This period marked Black's transition into dedicated play-by-play duties, building on his established reputation in Canadian media. From 2002 to 2009, Black returned to Blue Jays coverage as the primary play-by-play voice for TSN's broadcasts of the team's games, teaming up with analyst for over 20 games per season in some years. Their booth dynamic, highlighted in TSN's high-definition presentations starting in , captured key moments in the Jays' competitive eras, including playoff pushes and standout performances by players like . Black's tenure with TSN ended after the 2009 season, after which he shifted focus to other sports while occasionally referencing his Jays experience in later media appearances.

Departure and later career

Black announced his departure from TSN and CTV on October 14, 2021, concluding a tenure that spanned over 30 years with , where he had served as a prominent play-by-play and host for CFL, NBA, and coverage. The decision was described as mutual, though reports indicated it stemmed from 's financial cutbacks, with Black's contract expiring on August 31, 2021. Following his exit, Black transitioned to freelance broadcasting and . He took on the role of national play-by-play announcer for the senior men's hockey championship, broadcasting the 2024 finals on CHCH TV alongside former NHL player . In April 2025, Black returned to TSN as the play-by-play voice for the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) season, including the season in which the won the championship, marking a selective re-engagement with for coverage. Additionally, he has pursued opportunities as a and storyteller, drawing on his sports broadcasting experience to engage audiences at events.

Awards and recognition

Broadcasting awards

Throughout his career, Rod Black has been recognized for his contributions to sports broadcasting, earning nominations for prestigious Canadian television awards. In 2005, he received the Sports Media Canada Award for Outstanding Sports Broadcaster, honoring his excellence in play-by-play commentary and analysis across major events. Black has garnered five nominations for the Gemini Award in the Best Sports Broadcaster category, reflecting his consistent impact on national audiences during his tenure at networks like TSN and CTV. These nominations highlight his work on high-profile broadcasts, including NHL games and Olympic coverage. Additionally, he earned a nomination for the Canadian Screen Award, which succeeded the Geminis in 2013, specifically for his play-by-play of the 2011 .

Honors and public service

Black has been recognized for his contributions to sports broadcasting and community service through several notable honors. In recognition of his volunteer efforts, he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Medal in 2012. He was also inducted into the media wing of the Sports Hall of Fame for his distinguished career and impact on sports media. Throughout his career, Black has been actively involved in , particularly supporting organizations focused on youth, health, and inclusion. As a long-time champion and supporter of Canada, he has used his platform to highlight athletes with intellectual disabilities and inspire greater awareness and participation in the movement. He serves as an honorary spokesperson and ambassador for Plan International Canada, advocating for , , and global development initiatives, especially those empowering girls in vulnerable communities. Additionally, Black is a dedicated advocate for the Canadian Men's Health Foundation, where he promotes men's health awareness and supports related charitable causes as a national champion. His involvement extends to numerous other Canadian charities, where he has donated time and his broadcasting expertise to fundraising and awareness efforts.

Personal life

Family

Rod Black is married to Nancy Black, the daughter of former professional hockey player Billy Knibbs, who played one season with the in 1964–65 after competing for the in junior hockey. The couple has two sons, both of whom have pursued athletic careers. Their eldest son, Tyler Black, born in Stouffville, , is a player selected 33rd overall by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 2021 MLB Draft, making him the first Canadian picked that year. Tyler made his major league debut with the Brewers on April 30, 2024, during which Rod Black, attending from the stands, provided impromptu play-by-play commentary on a broadcast as Tyler recorded his first career hit—a double—coinciding with Nancy's birthday; Tyler later gifted her the ball from the at-bat. Their younger son, Brody Black, is an who played at Frontier Community College in (2021–22) and Coppin State University (2023–24). Following college, Black has played in summer leagues including the . Black has described himself as a devoted family man, often integrating family moments into his public persona, such as sharing stories of his sons' achievements during interviews and charitable appearances.

Philanthropy and other activities

Black has been actively involved in philanthropy throughout his career, lending his voice and time to numerous Canadian charities focused on , , and sports. He serves as a National Champion for the Canadian Men's Health Foundation, promoting initiatives and awareness campaigns. As an honorary spokesperson and ambassador for Plan International Canada (formerly Plan Canada), he advocates for and global development, emphasizing education and protection for vulnerable worldwide. For his volunteer efforts, Black received the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal and the Diamond Jubilee Medal. He has hosted fundraisers and events for organizations including the SickKids Foundation, Children's Aid Foundation, Special Olympics , and , often emceeing galas and charity dinners to support child health and community services. participates annually in the NHL Alumni Tour, joining hockey legends for exhibition games and events that raise funds for local charities across , benefiting causes such as youth programs and healthcare. He has also supported Easter Seals through the Celebrity Hockey Classic series, promoting accessibility for children with disabilities. Beyond , Black is a sought-after emcee and for corporate events, awards ceremonies, and sports-related functions, drawing on his experience to deliver engaging presentations on , , and perseverance. An avid athlete himself, he plays , , and hockey recreationally, and occasionally contributes freelance columns on sports topics to outlets like the .

References

  1. https://torontoathletespeakers.ca/speaker/rod-black/
  2. https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Rod-Black/207669281
  3. https://www.nsb.com/speakers/rod-black/
  4. https://www.cbc.ca/sports/rod-black-tsn-ctv-1.6210965
  5. https://www.thestar.com/life/together/people/tsn-anchor-rod-black-is-one-of-canada-s-best-known-sports-voices-what-sets/article_277e809d-7c18-50a7-b93a-f542c6e1db51.html
  6. https://broadcastdialogue.com/rod-black-departs-tsn-after-three-decades/
  7. https://ca.linkedin.com/in/rod-black-68b509b9
  8. https://www.bellmedia.ca/the-lede/press/sportscaster-rod-black-signs-off-from-tsn/
  9. https://terraestatewinery.com/rod-black/
  10. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2892235/2021/10/15/rod-black-on-his-tsn-exit-his-moustaches-future-and-what-comes-next-ive-got-a-lot-left-in-me/
  11. https://3downnation.com/2021/10/17/former-tsn-broadcaster-rod-black-a-victim-of-bell-media-cutbacks/
  12. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isSmB6XR1GY
  13. https://jaysjournal.com/posts/legendary-canadian-sports-broadcaster-rod-black-calls-his-sons-hit-in-his-mlb-debut
  14. https://www.thestar.com/sports/sports-betting/the-rodcast-episode-1-blue-jays-legend-joe-carter/article_b7f38397-ba7c-5076-bf50-8146089a2e4b.html
  15. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/black-tabler-to-call-jay-games/article18288213/
  16. https://www.sportsvideo.org/2008/02/21/tsn-presents-20-blue-jays-games-in-hd/
  17. https://www.torontomike.com/2022/12/pat-tabler-no-longer-at-sportsnet-after-17-years/
  18. https://www.ohahockey.ca/dundas-wins-back-to-back-allan-cups/
  19. https://www.cebl.ca/2025-cebl-on-tsn-broadcast-team-announced
  20. https://awfulannouncing.com/international/rod-black-leaves-tsn-and-bell-media-after-more-than-30-years.html
  21. https://plancanada.ca/en-ca/about-us/our-ambassadors
  22. https://menshealthfoundation.ca/champions/rod-black/
  23. https://prospeakers.com/speakers/rod-black/
  24. https://www.canadianbaseballnetwork.com/canadian-baseball-network-articles/rod-black-may-i-have-the-envelope-please
  25. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2711738/2021/07/19/canadian-sportscasters-children-debrusk-black/
  26. https://www.thestar.com/initiatives/santa-claus-fund/proud-broadcaster-called-his-sons-hit-in-his-mlb-debut-rod-black-still-gets-asked/article_c7ad0a68-be3b-11ef-bf67-535d4f06e3be.html
  27. https://www.ctvnews.ca/sports/article/oh-there-you-go-tyler-black-son-of-veteran-broadcaster-rod-black-has-memorable-major-league-baseball-debut/
  28. https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=black-000bro
  29. https://menshealthfoundation.ca/press/rod-black-joins-cmhf-national-champion/
  30. https://celebrityhockeyclassics.com/rod-black/
  31. https://www.thestar.com/users/profile/rod%2520black/
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