Ladies and gentlemen, Elvis is leaving the building.
Earlier today, Hall-of-Famer Mike Lange announced that he will retire from his role as play-by-play analyst on the Penguins Radio Network following a legendary career that spanned 45 years. His retirement was announced through a news release and on social media shortly after 11:15 this morning.
The 73-year-old Lange took over play-by-play duties in 1974 and quickly joined Myron Cope and Bob Prince as one of Pittsburgh’s famed voices in sports. In fact, Lange said that when he first arrived to the Steel City, those two helped him learn more about Pittsburgh sports.
In a statement, Lange thanked fans for tuning in night-after-night on the Penguins Radio Network, saying that the contributions they made to the broadcasts made him “smile like a butcher’s dog.”
Lange’s broadcast partner, “The Ol’ 29-er” Phil Bourque said Lange understands Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh understands him. “There is a connection,” he said. “It’s family.”
Penguins president and CEO David Morehouse called Lange a broadcasting legend “not just in Pittsburgh, but in all of sports.” He cited the respect and admiration Lange received from fans, ownership and players.
While the Hall-of-Famer will step away from play-by-play duties, he does plan on still being a part of Penguins programming.
Josh Getzoff will take over full-time as the Penguins Radio Network play-by-play commentator.
