Posted by Bud on March 31, 2010 at 20:46:16:
Long-term deal in the works for Hawks, WGN Radio
Posted by Ed S. at 3/30/2010 2:14 AM CDT on Chicago Business
When it comes to getting in on the ground floor, it is hard to beat WGN-AM 720's timing with the Blackhawks.
The radio station hooked up with the Blackhawks in summer 2008, just in time for their run to the NHL conference finals last year. Ratings have soared ever since as WGN hopes for another hockey-filled spring.
Both sides are so thrilled with the relationship that they are wrapping up a long-term extension; the current contract expires after next season.
"We have the power of the Cubs in the summer, and now we have the Blackhawks in the winter," said WGN General Manager Tom Langmyer. "Now we've got that strong vibe all year round. The Cubs and Hawks bring a lot of listeners to the station. It couldn't have worked out better."
Mr. Langmyer grew up an avid hockey fan in Buffalo, N.Y. He recalled listening to Hawks games on WMAQ.
"They were an Original Six team," Mr. Langmyer said. "It was a big deal when the Hawks came to Buffalo."
The Hawks weren't a big deal when Mr. Langmyer arrived in Chicago five years ago. Early on, he engaged in discussions with the team about airing the games on WGN, but decided not to pursue it.
Mr. Langmyer became interested when John McDonough took over as team president in late 2007.
"John and I previously worked together when he was with the Cubs," Mr. Langmyer said. "So when he moved to the Blackhawks, we sat down immediately and talked about the possibilities. I knew if John was running the show, things were going to be done right. Even if things just went OK, I knew it would be a good investment. But it has been way more than just OK. The partnership has exceeded our expectations."
The station also proved to be the ideal spot for the Hawks. Besides the games, Hawk talk can be heard throughout the day on WGN, exposing the team to more than just hockey fans.
"Our goal for this franchise is to become mainstream," said Jay Blunk, the Hawks senior vice-president of business operations. "It doesn't get more mainstream than WGN Radio."
And while we're on the subject of WGN, let's give a shout-out to play-by-play man John Wiedeman, analyst Troy Murray and Judd Sirott, who handles the duties in the studio. The crew is underrated. Mr. Wiedeman delivers an exciting, vibrant call, and Mr. Murray and Mr. Sirott are solid with their analysis.
Hopefully, more listeners will mean more recognition for the trio.