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What is Regan Bartel's 'happy place'?

Why the veteran broadcaster is back for more on 104.7 The Lizard

Regan Bartel, 104.7 The Lizard’s new summer signing for live play-by-play of the Kelowna Rockets, is getting ready for another season in what he calls his “happy place”, the commentary booth.

Bartel, who is returning for his 23rd year behind the microphone for the Rockets, said when he thinks of the organization he thinks of a winning tradition.

“I think of class from top to bottom, and when these teenagers arrive in their Rocket uniform, once their junior careers are ending, they leave as great men,” Bartel said.

The veteran commentator explained there’s no better place to be than inside Prospera Place when the team is in full stride.

“When the building is packed, you can just feel the energy coming off the ice surface; the crowd is engaged. Really, it’s just escapism. That’s what sport is: getting away from your problems and cheering on the home team to victory.”

For Bartel, bringing the excitement of the battle to radio listeners gives him a rush.

“When you arrive in the building you can feel the energy from the coaches and players and that just ramps you up even more. Then you head up to the booth to call the game. I feel I’m in my happy place, in a zone.

“To call a win at the end of the night. I don’t think there’s anything better.”

You can tune in to Bartel’s first broadcast on 104.7 The Lizard when the Rockets play the Portland Winterhawks on Saturday, Sept. 24.

Published 2022-08-02 by Glenn Hicks

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