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WHL Portland Winterhawks

Evan Richardson, Andy Kemper Step Down from Winterhawks Broadcasts

June 27, 2018 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Portland Winterhawks News Release


The broadcast team of Evan Richardson and Andy Kemper have stepped down from their positions with the Portland Winterhawks, each citing the desire to spend more time with family.

A national search for a new Winterhawks play-by-play voice is currently underway.

Richardson, originally from Toronto, Canada, became the Winterhawks' Media Relations & Broadcast Manager broadcaster this past October. He was the play-by-play voice for Winterhawks' broadcasts this past year, alongside Kemper.

While he wrestled with the decision to leave Portland, Richardson ultimately chose to return home to Toronto and seek opportunities closer to his hometown.

"I want to thank everyone within the Portland Winterhawks organization for all that they have done for me over the past year. Being the play-by-play voice for a first-class franchise like the Winterhawks has been a dream come true. Portland is a great city and I want to personally thank the Winterhawks' fans for welcoming me with open arms. I wish the Hawks tremendous success and I will forever be a fan of this great organization."

Kemper, a versatile member of the Winterhawks broadcast team, steps away after nearly 15 years behind the mic.

His broadcast career began in 2004 as the color commentator alongside legendary Winterhawks broadcaster, Dean Vrooman. Kemper took over the broadcasts when Vrooman stepped down in 2007 and later resumed his color role when Vrooman's son Todd took over the play-by-play duties in 2009. Kemper briefly jumped back into the main seat in 2018 prior to Richardson's arrival.

Kemper's wealth of Winterhawks knowledge will continue to be put to use as the newly titled Team Historian.

"Andy is a walking encyclopedia of Winterhawks stats and lore," said team President Doug Piper. "While we are sad to see him step out of the broadcast booth, we are excited that he will continue to be an active part of the Winterhawks family. Most of all, I want to thank Andy for his service over the past 15 years. He has always stepped up and done what was necessary to keep the broadcasts moving forward."

Broadcasting was a labor of love for Kemper who maintained a full-time career in electronics manufacturing during his Winterhawks tenure.

"I am excited to stay a part of the organization and looking forward to maintaining the rich history of the franchise. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the broadcast booth, but I am looking forward to watching the games from the stands with my family."

To apply for the Play-By-Play Announcer position, visit here http://bit.ly/2KddLvc.

Check out the Portland Winterhawks Statistics



Western Hockey League Stories from June 27, 2018


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