Ian Furness

Ian Furness is a highly experienced sports broadcaster, known for his comprehensive coverage of hockey and other sports, transitioning from play-by-play announcing to becoming a television host for the Seattle Kraken. After establishing himself as a prolific play-by-play announcer for over 1,000 games across the American Hockey League (AHL) and International Hockey League (IHL) following the early 1990s, Ian Furness developed a comprehensive and impactful broadcasting foundation. He initiated his career in the early 1990s as the primary play-by-play announcer for the Seattle Thunderbirds in the Western Hockey League (WHL). This foundational experience provided him with extensive hands-on expertise in live sports commentary and broadcast production, allowing him to master the nuances of professional hockey coverage and build a robust portfolio of on-air experience.

This position represented the culmination of a long-held ambition to work directly with a National Hockey League (NHL) franchise, bringing his deep-rooted passion for hockey to a premier national stage. In his role, he has been instrumental in shaping the vibrant broadcast experience for the Seattle Kraken, expertly leveraging his comprehensive background and seasoned perspective to engage with the team’s rapidly growing fanbase during its inaugural seasons and subsequent development. His contributions are vital in delivering compelling, insightful, and accessible hockey content, solidifying his status as a key figure in the NHL broadcast community and an invaluable asset to the network.