Arch Ecker, the former play-by-play voice of the Wenatcheee Wild was posthumously chosen for the B.C. Hockey League’s Jim Hughson Award as broadcaster of the year.
Ecker joined the Wild behind the mic in 2016 and called nearly 1,500 games. He died of heart attack just before the 2022-23 season started in September, a year after a near-fatal car accident left him with internal injuries.
“Arch would have been very humbled and proud to know that his colleagues recognized him with this award,” said Wild general manager Bliss Littler. “The Wild are so proud of Arch and all that he brought to the broadcast booth, the Wild organization as well as the Wenatchee Valley.”
The vote among the league's 18 broadcasters was unanimous. Ecker was with the team in 2018 when the Wild went on a run to its first Fred Page Cup BCHL championship and Doyle Cup regional junior A hockey title, which qualified Wenatchee for the national championship. He already had 20 years of junior hockey broadcasting experience when he joined the Wild.
“Arch was a great friend and someone whose personality was larger than life and is sorely missed,” said West Kelowna Warriors broadcaster Trevor Miller. “Naming him the Broadcaster of the Year was an easy choice for the broadcasting community, as he demonstrated all the qualities that are required.”
Said Vernon Vipers broadcaster Graham Turnbull: “He put his heart and soul into every broadcast. I’m sure the Wild faithful would echo that. He cared so much for the players, the team and the BCHL. It’s not the same without him, but this is a great way to pay tribute to him.”
