John Garrett, renowned former professional ice hockey goaltender and esteemed television sports commentator, will be joining the ranks of NHL Alumni for the 15th Annual Commonwealth Cup. The event will take place on July 16 at
the picturesque Aberdeen Glen Golf Course, in support of the Prince George Hospice Palliative Care Society and their newest program, Home Hospice.
Garrett, a Canadian hockey legend, has had an illustrious career in both professional hockey and sports broadcasting. He began his professional journey in the World Hockey Association from 1973 to 1979 and subsequently played in the National Hockey League from 1979 to 1985, including notable years with the Vancouver Canucks.
Upon retiring from his playing career, Garrett seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting. He made significant contributions as a colour commentator on CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada, quickly becoming a valuable member of the team. In 1991, he was assigned his first conference final, the beginning of an impressive streak of eight consecutive conference finals. During this time, Garrett also served as the lead colour commentator on Edmonton Oilers local telecasts alongside Bruce Buchanan.
Garrett’s career in broadcasting continued to flourish as he joined the fledgling CTV Sportsnet (now Rogers Sportsnet) in 1998. He worked as a studio analyst on national broadcasts and served as the colour commentator for Calgary Flames games on Sportsnet West. Notably, during the 1994 NHL lockout, Garrett briefly worked for United Parcel Service of Canada in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Since the 2002–03 season, Garrett has been the trusted voice for Canucks games on Sportsnet Pacific, initially partnering with Jim Hughson and later John Shorthouse. His expertise and passion for the game also earned him occasional network assignments on Hockey Night in Canada and, following Rogers’ acquisition of the Canadian national contract for the NHL in 2014, assignments on either Sportsnet or City.
On March 23, 2023, Garrett announced his retirement from Canucks regional broadcasts at the conclusion of the 2022–23 NHL season, marking the end of a remarkable broadcasting career.
His presence will undoubtedly elevate the Commonwealth Cup, bringing together fans and supporters for a day of golf and camaraderie in support of the Prince George Hospice Palliative Care Society’s Home Hospice program