The British Columbia Hockey League and the community of Port Alberni are mourning the sudden loss of one of junior hockey's most recognizable voices. Evan Hammond, the longtime play-by-play announcer for the Alberni Valley Bulldogs, died Friday at the age of 45 following what his family described as a sudden medical emergency.
A Voice Synonymous with Community
Affectionately known as "Hammer," Hammond had been the voice of the Bulldogs since the 2003-04 season, a role he held for over two decades. His career began with broadcasts for his hometown Flin Flon Bombers and the OCN Blizzard in the Manitoba Junior A league before he found a permanent home on Vancouver Island.
Beyond the rink, Hammond was a fixture on local morning radio, hosting shows on sister stations in Port Alberni and Nanaimo. His dual role as a daily radio host and hockey broadcaster made him a central figure in the community's daily life. Dan Marshall, the voice of the rival Nanaimo Clippers, described Hammond as the last of a breed of larger-than-life radio personalities whose longevity and connection to his audience harkened back to an earlier era of broadcasting.
Remembered as a Mentor and a Jokester
Colleagues and friends are remembering Hammond not just for his professional talent, but for his character. Marshall shared anecdotes of Hammond's playful nature, recalling how he would often call with a goofy dad joke just as Marshall's on-air song was ending, trying to make him laugh at the worst possible moment.
More significantly, Hammond is being hailed as a generous mentor to a generation of young broadcasters in the BCHL. He won the league's Jim Hughson Award for Broadcaster of the Year three times, first in its inaugural 2008-09 season. Despite his accolades, he was known for treating first-year callers with the same respect as seasoned veterans, always willing to offer encouragement and advice.
Tributes Pour In for a Lasting Legacy
The hockey community reacted swiftly to the news. The Alberni Valley Bulldogs held a moment of silence before their January 3rd game against the Surrey Eagles, a contest they won 10-4. In a poignant tribute, a player carried a sledgehammer—a nod to Hammond's nickname—during the team's post-game victory lap.
On social media, an outpouring of condolences and memories came from broadcasters across the league, many of whom credited Hammond with raising the standard of BCHL play-by-play. Marshall has suggested that the BCHL should find a "big way" to permanently honour Hammond's legacy, citing his unparalleled devotion to both his team and his community.
In a statement, Hammond's family expressed gratitude for the community's support and asked for privacy as they grieve. They highlighted his pride in being a local storyteller, sharing that "he found joy in sharing local history, celebrating its people, and bringing everyday moments to life through conversation and connection." Evan Hammond is survived by his wife and three children.
