The Port Alberni community and the broader British Columbia hockey world are grieving the sudden loss of Evan Hammond, the award-winning play-by-play broadcaster who served as the beloved voice of the Alberni Valley Bulldogs for more than 20 years. On January 2, 2026, Hammond passed away in hospital at the age of 45, following a medical emergency that began on December 31.
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs organization announced his passing with profound sorrow, describing him as an integral part of the team whose passion, professionalism, and unmistakable presence helped define the club’s identity and forge deep connections with fans across generations.
Hammond’s career in broadcasting spanned decades of dedication to junior hockey in the BCHL, where he earned three Broadcaster of the Year awards from the league in 2009, 2013, and a shared honor in 2022. His commentary brought every game to life with vivid, masterful descriptions that painted pictures over the airwaves, turning fast-paced action on the ice into compelling stories that resonated far beyond the arena.
Beyond his role with the Bulldogs, Hammond was a familiar presence on local radio as the morning show host for 93.3 PEAK FM, where he embodied the spirit of the Alberni Valley and connected with listeners through his warm, engaging style. He often expressed genuine gratitude for the opportunity to do what he loved in the community he cherished, calling himself fortunate to narrate the highs and lows of Bulldogs hockey while building lasting memories for fans.
In his personal life, Hammond was a devoted family man, described by his loved ones as a beloved son, brother, and father who took great pride in being a storyteller for the place he called home. He balanced his demanding career with a love for the outdoors, often spending off-seasons on the water fishing, swimming, and immersing himself in the natural beauty surrounding Port Alberni. This appreciation for the valley’s lifestyle reflected his deep-rooted connection to the region, where he lived authentically and contributed to the sense of community that defines small-town life in British Columbia.
The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the hockey fraternity, with teams across the BCHL sharing tributes that highlight his extraordinary ability to make each game feel intimate and familial. The Bulldogs emphasized that Hammond’s impact reached well beyond broadcasts, as a colleague who genuinely cared about everyone involved in the organization. His legacy endures in the countless moments he captured and the joy he brought to listeners, reminding everyone of the power of passionate storytelling in sports.