Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast – Episode Summary: Hour 3: Sam Rosen Joins the Show
Podcast Information:
- Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
- Hosts: Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
- Episode: Hour 3: Sam Rosen Joins the Show
- Release Date: March 21, 2025
Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
In this episode, hosts Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg warmly welcome Sam Rosen, a legendary sportscaster, as the special guest. The discussion centers around Sam's illustrious 40-year career calling New York Rangers games and his upcoming retirement. The hosts express their excitement and honor in having Sam join them for this significant episode.
Sam Rosen’s Career Journey
Sam Rosen reflects on his long-standing career in sports broadcasting, emphasizing his deep-rooted passion for sports that began in his youth. He shares his initial ambition to play baseball for the New York Yankees but pivoted to broadcasting when he realized his potential lay in announcing rather than playing.
Sam Rosen [03:16]: "Yes, it was always a dream to be...deliver clothes for my father in Brooklyn...The thing that I wanted to do was to be an announcer. I loved Mel Allen...it was just a matter of going from one job to another to lead you to this place."
Sam credits mentors like Jim Gordon and Marv Albert for shaping his broadcasting style and helping him secure his role at Madison Square Garden. His dedication and love for sports broadcasting have kept him at the top of his game throughout his career.
Memorable Moments: The 1994 Stanley Cup Finals
A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the 1994 Stanley Cup Finals, a pinnacle moment in Sam's career. He provides a detailed and emotional recount of the intense Game 7 against the New Jersey Devils, highlighting the high stress and dramatic turns that defined the series.
Sam Rosen [19:21]: "That series was just high, high pressure, high drama...Mark Messier scored a hat trick...the Rangers won the Stanley Cup."
Sam describes the camaraderie and tension in the broadcast booth during those critical moments, especially his interactions with co-broadcaster JD. His vivid storytelling captures the essence of that unforgettable championship run, illustrating why it remains a cherished memory for Rangers fans.
Impact on Fans and Personal Reflections
Sam speaks candidly about the profound connection he shares with Rangers fans. He recounts numerous encounters with families who consider him a part of their household, expressing how rewarding it is to know that his voice has been a constant presence in their lives.
Sam Rosen [11:10]: "It's tremendously rewarding...it means that I've touched people...it's more than just a job, it's a love, it's a passion."
The hosts echo these sentiments, acknowledging Sam's role in creating lasting memories for generations of fans. They discuss the significance of his signature calls, such as "It's a power play goal," and how these phrases have become integral to the Rangers' game-day experience.
Relationships with Colleagues and Mentors
The episode delves into Sam's relationships with fellow broadcasters, particularly his bond with John Davidson (JD). Sam shares stories of their professional and personal camaraderie, highlighting how JD set the standard for sports broadcasting.
Don LaGreca [15:12]: "It was a natural course of events. We would see each other during the years...and we've stuck together for a long time."
Peter Rosenberg adds personal anecdotes about his own interactions with JD, illustrating the warmth and humor that Sam brings to his professional relationships.
Decision to Retire
As the conversation progresses, Sam opens up about his decision to retire after the current season. He explains that while he still feels passionate about broadcasting Rangers games, the demands of constant travel and a desire to spend more time with family influenced his choice.
Sam Rosen [24:21]: "It's difficult...the games are wonderful to do...I want to go out with people remembering me at the top of my game."
He expresses confidence that his legacy is secure and that he leaves the position with pride and satisfaction.
Closing Thoughts and Legacy
In the closing segment, the hosts and Sam share heartfelt messages about his impact on the sports broadcasting community. Peter Rosenberg praises Sam as a master of his craft and a humble mentor, while Alan Hahn underscores Sam's enduring influence and the high standard he set for future broadcasters.
Alan Hahn [28:44]: "Your voice will last a lifetime with this network."
Sam thanks the hosts for their kind words and reflects on the privilege of being part of the MSG family, emphasizing the special connections he's built over the decades.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Sam Rosen [03:16]: "Yes, it was always a dream to be...deliver clothes for my father in Brooklyn...The thing that I wanted to do was to be an announcer. I loved Mel Allen...it was just a matter of going from one job to another to lead you to this place."
- Sam Rosen [11:10]: "It's tremendously rewarding...it means that I've touched people...it's more than just a job, it's a love, it's a passion."
- Sam Rosen [19:21]: "That series was just high, high pressure, high drama...Mark Messier scored a hat trick...the Rangers won the Stanley Cup."
- Don LaGreca [15:12]: "It was a natural course of events. We would see each other during the years...and we've stuck together for a long time."
- Sam Rosen [24:21]: "It's difficult...the games are wonderful to do...I want to go out with people remembering me at the top of my game."
- Alan Hahn [28:44]: "Your voice will last a lifetime with this network."
Conclusion
This heartfelt episode serves as a tribute to Sam Rosen's extraordinary career and his immeasurable contributions to sports broadcasting. Through engaging conversations, memorable anecdotes, and sincere reflections, the hosts celebrate Sam's legacy and his enduring bond with Rangers fans. Sam Rosen's decision to retire marks the end of an era, but his influence and the memories he's created will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come.