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Rick Jeanneret will scale back on Sabres broadcasts

By WBFO Newsroom

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-970714.mp3

Buffalo, NY – Buffalo Sabres play-by-play announcer Rick Jeanneret will be scaling back on his broadcast schedule.

Buffalo Sabres President Ted Black announced today that the broadcast team of Jeanneret and Harry Neale will only work home games and a reduced road schedule of approximately 10-15 games next season. Their exact road schedule will be determined once the 2011-12 NHL regular season schedule is released.

"It's no secret that the constant travel has been wearing on me over the years, and there were several times last season when I thought that it might be my last," Jeanneret said. "That's why I presented this arrangement to Sabres management. I think it's the best of both worlds, and allows me to continue doing the job I love. I really want to thank the Sabres for accommodating my request."

"I'm delighted to continue working with Rick, and am looking forward to the upcoming season," said Neale.

"Rick and Harry have become part of the fabric of this organization," said Black. "We really believe this plan will go a long way in prolonging their careers and continue their relationships with the Buffalo Sabres."

The Sabres say Rob Ray will join Jeanneret and Neale in the booth for their road games, a role he has served in several times over the past two seasons.

In a December 2010 interview with WBFO's Eileen Buckley, Jeanneret talked about why he is considering scaling back. Click the above audio to hear Jeanneret's answer.

The 2011-12 season will be Jeanneret's 40th year with the Buffalo Sabres. He started with the team prior to the 1971-72 season, serving as the club's radio voice and held that post until 1995. Jeanneret then became the television play-by-play announcer, beginning with the 1995-96 campaign.

This will be Neale's fifth year in Buffalo, after joining the Sabres at the start of the 2007-08 season. He previously worked for more than 20 years as an analyst for Hockey Night in Canada, along with regional coverage of Toronto Maple Leafs games.