The Dallas Stars shared awful news on Monday: play-by-play announcer Dave Strader was diagnosed with cancer.
The team did not provide other details about Strader’s condition, but both the team and the widely regarded announcer released statements.
First, here is what Strader said:
“I realize I have a challenge and fight ahead of me. With my wife Colleen and our family, along with the full support of the Dallas Stars organization, we are ready to meet this challenge. We don’t have to look very far for inspiration as Bekki Nill has shown us all how to meet this dreaded disease head-on. Personally, her example will serve as a great guide. I want to thank everyone for their support as I proceed with treatment.”
This is the Stars’ statement:
“The Dallas Stars are deeply saddened to learn of Dave Strader’s cancer diagnosis. As he goes through his treatment, all of our thoughts and prayers are directed to Dave, his wife Colleen, their son Christopher and his wife Karen and daughter Sydney, their son Casey and his wife Dr. Mary, and their son Trevor. We wish Dave a full recovery and will support him through his battle.
“Dave’s work in both local markets and on the national stage have made his voice synonymous with hockey to fans all over the globe in his 36 years in the booth. We know that he’s touched a lot of people throughout his career thus far and those wanting to send well-wishes are encouraged to send Dave a note at WellWishesForStrader@dallasstars.com.”
His current Dallas Stars broadcast partner Daryl “Razor” Reaugh tweeted this:
He's a strong bugger, great partner and fantastic PxP guy that @TheVoiceDS.
— Daryl Reaugh (@Razor5Hole) June 13, 2016
Cancer gonna find out just how strong. pic.twitter.com/yZsY381T0a
Strader began working with Reaugh and the Stars during the 2015-16 season. Before that, he was a longtime NBC sports play-by-play announcer.
Plenty of other people from around the hockey world are sharing their best wishes.
A couple years back Dave Strader called a Dartmouth/RPI game on NBCSN and was top-5 nicest guys I ever met. Good luck to him in his battle.
— Dartmouth Men's Hockey (@Dartmouth_MIH) June 13, 2016
Just read of Dave Strader's fight with Cancer. Be well Dave. Win the Battle!@TheVoiceDS #StraderStrong
— John Shannon (@JShannonhl) June 13, 2016
One of the really good guys in the game, thoughts are with Dave Strader @TheVoiceDS https://t.co/9peqy6H7dc
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 13, 2016