Beloved Maple Leafs Announcer Joe Bowen Misses First Game in 40 Years for Heartwarming Reason
Joe Bowen is a diehard Toronto Maple Leafs fan and a mainstay for over four decades, but decided to take a step away from the booth for a very important reason.
If you've been a Maple Leafs fan for the past 40+ years, there's no doubt you've heard the phrase 'Holy Mackinaw!' more than once in your life and its legacy is forever entrenched within broadcaster Joe Bowen.
Having called games for the past 43 years, Bowen has been the voice of the Maple Leafs and created timeless soundbites and proved that while announcing is meant to be nonpartisan, Bowen doesn't mind letting his passion let loose.
But on Monday night, the broadcast veteran has taken a step away from the game for one night only, and the reason is deeply entwined within family values.
Notre Dame's Fight For A Championship Brings Joe Bowen's Family Together
Bowen stepping back in order to spend time with his sons and watch the Championship is something that often goes ignored in the constant day to day of a sports broadcaster.
It's Notre Dame's storied history, they've secured 11 National Championships however haven't been to the dance since 1988 so it's no secret that the die hard fans including Bowen's family want to take part in watching history.
With over 3000 games called for the Maple Leafs, Bowen's humor, passion, and love of the game has brought fans together for generations. Alongside Harry Neale, the two created some of the most entertaining yet informative announcing in the entire league.
He was the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award winner in 2018 for his contributions to the hockey broadcast world, and as a gesture of appreciation, was given a golden seat from Maple Leaf Gardens after its closure as a thank you for his passion and dedication to the team.
With Notre Dame seeking a historic Championship against Ohio State, millions around the world will be watching. But there will be some very passionate and dedicated fans who no doubt will have one thing to say if the Fighting Irish pull it off:
Holy Mackinaw!
