Dan Kelly (September 17, 1936 – February 10, 1989) was a prominent Canadian sportscaster whose career became synonymous with professional hockey broadcasting. He is widely remembered as the long‑time radio and television voice of the St. Louis Blues and for his work describing games in the National Hockey League to audiences across North America.

Kelly's national and international assignments brought his voice to multiple networks. He called NHL games for networks such as CBS and the USA Network, and he worked with major Canadian outlets including CTV and Global. Notable tournament assignments included play-by-play for ice hockey at the 1988 Winter Olympics (for CTV) and coverage of the 1987 Canada Cup, where his narration accompanied many memorable international moments.

Although most closely associated with hockey, Kelly's résumé encompassed other sports and teams. He provided commentary for Major League Baseball's St. Louis Cardinals, called college football for the Missouri Tigers, and broadcast games in the Canadian Football League. He also did occasional work on NFL telecasts for CBS, demonstrating versatility across North American professional and collegiate sports.

Broadcast style and signature

Kelly was admired for a clear, steady play‑by‑play delivery that balanced precise description with an ability to capture atmosphere. His timing, sense of pacing in close games, and an unobtrusive but authoritative tone helped listeners visualize action without distraction. These qualities made him a favorite among radio listeners and television viewers alike and influenced the approach of later hockey commentators.

Selected assignments

Kelly's career was cut short when he died in 1989. In recognition of his impact on the sport and its broadcasts, he was posthumously honored with induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame later that year. His recordings and rebroadcasts remain reference points for students of sports announcing.

Legacy and notable facts

  • Kelly helped popularize hockey play‑by‑play in the United States through long local service and high‑profile national assignments.
  • He worked across a broad range of networks and events, from domestic league play to international tournaments and Olympics.
  • His example is often cited by commentators for clarity, consistency, and the ability to convey excitement without overstatement.
  • Broadcasters and fans can find references to his best known calls in audio archives and commemorations held by teams and media organizations.