Behind The Glass

The hockey community is a large and loving environment. There are more that make it up than the players and teams themselves. In this interview series, we are talking to the people in and around the leagues that make it what it is today. Behind the scenes, from production crews to equipment managers, these are the people that present the game to the audience in the way we have come to love.

Jeff K has been on the radio for more than 25 years in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. Currently, while still at Lone Star 92.5, Jeff works his self-proclaimed “side gigs” as In-Stadium Host for the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium and Public Address Announcer for the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center.

What drew you to working in sports?

“I didn't initially set out to work for the Stars (or Cowboys for that matter), the jobs sort of found me. As a radio DJ in Dallas who also happened to be a Stars fan (and season ticket holder) from year-one (1993), I developed a friendly working rapport with the team. Players, coaches, and broadcasters were guests of mine on the air throughout the years. In 2005 I was approached to be a music consultant for the Stars, which then lead to being offered the Music Director position, which then evolved into In-Game Host, and eventually Public Address Announcer. The game presentation community in DFW is a tight one, and when the Cowboys were looking to make a change at In-Stadium Host, they were already familiar with my work with the Stars and asked if I'd be interested. Of course, I jumped at the opportunity. 2017 will mark my 6th season with America's Team.”

What do you believe to be the best part about game-day?

“The easy answer is saying "STARS WIN!!" at the end of the game. Professional sports is a results-oriented business, and it's always more fun when business is good. Some other "best moments" come in-game, when I can directly affect the energy of the presentation, whether it's announcing goals, or milestones, or awards, or especially when the Stars are "ON THE POWER PLAY!!", I love when the fans have my back and chime in nice and loud!”

Professional athletes are known for rigorous practice/training, what is the training to be the PA for a professional sports team?

“I really don't adhere to any training regimen or vocal preparation. Public Address isn't as much a nuanced skill as it is a volume skill. Knowing when to elevate is key, and the properly timed inflection can convey the right amount of joy (or disdain) depending on the moment. Nearly 30 years behind the mic has provided the practice and/or training to prepare for the job.”

Athletes are famously superstitious, especially in pre-game rituals. Do you have any superstitions or routines you follow?

“There was a time during the 2015-16 season when it seemed every time I wore a certain jacket the Stars would win, so I kept that jacket on a LOT! Certain players have developed pregame routines with me during warmups. Jamie Benn will shoot the puck in my direction then tap the glass in front of me with his stick. Kari Lehtonen on nights when he's starting will give a glove bump or stick tap on the glass in front of me. Those moments are very special.”

Describe your favorite memory from announcing.

“I'm very fortunate to have more than a few. Jamie Benn's amazing 4 point night to win the Art Ross Trophy was special. Mike Modano's jersey retirement was magical. Military Appreciation Night is always a favorite, paying respect to the men and women who serve our country. Then there are the memories that I wouldn't classify as "favorite" but certainly memorable or unusual for sure... like during my first season as PA Announcer when I had to inform the crowd that the game would be canceled after Rich Peverley's cardiac event. Like everyone who was there, that's a night I'll never forget.”

Unfortunately hockey isn't 365 days a year, what do you do on days off or in the offseason?

“I'm the afternoon host on Classic Rock radio station "Lone Star 92.5" FM in Dallas/Ft Worth and that keeps me plenty busy. When I'm not behind the mic I'm usually hanging out with my lovely wife of 28 years Carrie, and our 3 dogs Gabbi, Pepper, and Chopper. We're very proud of our daughter Marseille who recently became a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M.”

Announcers are easily recognized by their voice. Where you ever told you have a "great voice for radio" or distinct sound?

“Occasionally I'll get recognized for my voice, but usually it's Stars fans who hear me in the arena first, and then come across me on the radio and make the connection. It's always nice to be recognized for having a distinct sound, especially when people associate it with something they enjoy, like Stars hockey.”

Do you have any advice for someone looking to get into sports media?

“Be patient and be persistent. Also, don't be afraid to work long hours for little pay. Breaking into the sports media business in Dallas-Ft Worth is very tough because it's so competitive. Keep in mind DFW is a top-5 media market, so people usually don't start here, they END UP here. Get as much experience as you can in places you can afford to make mistakes and learn-as-you-go. Cities like Austin, Waco, Sherman, Midland-Odessa offer great experience while staying relatively close to home. Even in DFW, teams like the Allen Americans or Lone Star Brahmas might offer an initial opportunity to create your success story. Never give up, and best of luck!”

Thanks to Jeff K and the Dallas Stars organization

*photos credited to @jeffk_stars