A FAREWELL LETTER FROM TOM GRACE
Official Press Release
I would like to publicly say “Thank You” to the entire Northeast Pennsylvania Region and all Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins fans in particular. After serving as the “Voice of the Penguins” for the past eight seasons, I have accepted a very exciting career opportunity with one of the top electronic media and digital marketing firms in the entire country. I will be relocating to Boston very soon and simply had to share these well wishes with all the people and fans who have touched my life in such a profound and lasting fashion over these past eight, magical years.
I hope that everybody realizes what a difficult decision it is for me to leave a team and a community that I have thoroughly enjoyed so much.
On the air I often stated quite proudly that we have the best fans, game-night atmosphere and overall franchise in the entire American Hockey League. It is the truth! Words cannot truly describe just how grateful and privileged I feel to have been such a big part of the excitement surrounding this Penguins team. All of the sold-out games, our two trips to the Calder Cup Finals, hosting the All-Star Game and just seeing and hearing how loud a building can be when packed with more than 8,000 ‘Whiteout Warriors’ will leave me with fond and proud memories that are certain to last a lifetime.
I must thank Jeff Barrett and the entire front office staff of the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. I was selected to be the man responsible for introducing and generating genuine excitement to the region about the sport of hockey, and the Penguins in particular. It was a responsibility I took very seriously and always held close to my heart. I gave my absolute best every single night and always cared greatly how each game and each season unfolded. I love broadcasting hockey, and those of you who have gotten to know me personally - and those of you who “feel like you know me” from listening to the broadcasts – know full well just how much this team means to me.
I want to thank some of the leaders with the Pittsburgh Penguins for creating such a “team” atmosphere between our NHL and AHL clubs. Craig Patrick, Ray Shero, Ed Johnston, Chuck Fletcher, the late Herb Brooks and, of course, Mario Lemiuex, all treated me with dignity and class and made me feel like I was a big part of the picture. Their graciousness during interviews and their willingness to help me promote the synergy between the two teams was very special and always appreciated. Broadcasting key playoff games with “The Big 29er” Phil Bourque will also remain one of my favorite memories on the air.
I had the privilege of working with the following coaches: Glenn Patrick, Mike Yeo, Michel Therrien, Joe Mullen, Al Sims, Todd Richards and Dan Bylsma. Each one of them taught me key lessons about the game, teamwork and leadership that will help me in all phases of my future outside of hockey. Our athletic trainer, team doctors and equipment staff also made great contributions and helped me in many ways. On a personal note, I have to acknowledge John McCarthy from McCarthy Tire - a great friend who provided too many favors to mention. He is a glittering example of how a “sponsor” is truly a partner with our team.
To the many players who have come through the locker room door – especially those such as Tom Kostopoulos, Toby Petersen, John Slaney, Brendan Buckley, Milan Kraft, Sebastien Caron, Dennis Bonvie and others who have left huge impacts on the franchise - you have all been tremendously cooperative with me in terms of doing interviews, school visits, charity appearances and radio shows. I feel lucky and special to have called you all colleagues and friends. I will miss you all!
I must thank Shamrock Communications for being our flagship station all eight years. Everyone there continues to make our games a huge priority on the air, and the popularity of the team and broadcasts speaks for itself. Our TV games were carried on WBRE, Fox Sports Pittsburgh, WNEP and now My Network-TV and Fox 56. Being involved with each of these fine stations brought great exposure to our team for all fans to enjoy. The weekly radio show hosts were Lowe’s Restaurant, Arena Bar & Grill and now Grotto Pizza, and all three places did an awesome job.
And finally, a note of thanks to each intern who stood next to me on broadcast row. I can’t think of a better group of unpaid, but truly professional and ambitious college students, to have shared my job with.
I’m leaving for a new and exciting opportunity. I am ready for the next chapter in my life, but these past eight years have been thrilling, rewarding and extremely satisfying. I have no regrets, because I gave my absolute best to this team. I will always hold this community dear to my heart. Deepest thanks go out to all of you who have touched me and allowed me into your lives through the broadcasts and public appearances. I can’t wait to see this team win the Championship. I will be at the parade, I promise!
Until then, this is Tom Grace saying, “Thanks so much for listening, and God bless you all.”
Thomas Michael Grace |
