In Photos: BGSU Hockey broadcaster hopes to follow footsteps of Falcon legends

Media production major called more than 150 hockey games, traveled the country

BGSU photographer Isaiah Vazquez compiled a photo essay of Ryan Vallon, a Spring 2021 graduate who hopes to call NHL games one day.

Ryan Vallon, who grew up in Littleton, Massachusetts, earned a Bachelor of Science in media production and studies in the School of Media and Communication in Bowling Green State University’s College of Arts and Sciences.

Originally a journalism major, Vallon switched to media production midway through his first semester at BGSU. He wanted to get more hands-on experience in the Michael & Sara Kuhlin Center, and since many members of Bowling Green Radio Sports Organization (BGRSO) were media production majors, he made the switch.

“I’ve always said that Bowling Green is the ‘Cradle of Hockey Broadcasters’ and I hope to be the next Falcon in professional hockey,” he said.

“My experience at Bowling Green State University was remarkable,” Vallon said. “As a student, I had the unique opportunity to broadcast over 150 BGSU Hockey games, travel with the team all across the country — including to Alaska six times — and call every single game in the regular season, WCHA postseason, Great Lakes Invitational and NCAA Tournament.

“Outside of hockey, I’m graduating with a bachelor’s degree from a well-respected university where I’ve made lifelong friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.”

Vallon’s plans to climb the ladder of professional hockey and one day land in the NHL like some of his broadcasting heroes.

“I’ve always said that Bowling Green is the ‘Cradle of Hockey Broadcasters’ and I hope to be the next Falcon in professional hockey,” he said. “I look up to my predecessors Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick ’76, Steve Mears ’02, Everett Fitzhugh ’11 and Evan Pivnick ’17 and I hope to keep the tradition going.”

Ryan Vallon begins his research into the University of Alabama-Huntsville and its statistics for the 2020-2021 season to kick off his game notes for the doubleheader.

Vallon, a senior from Littleton, Massachusetts, continues his game notes heading into the night. The senior states that he sometimes may work on game notes throughout the night depending on who BGSU is facing. He'll create his own game notes that are separate from SID's to help him in his commentary over the games.

"Off Mike," a book by Mike "Doc" Emrick shows on his shelf while continuing his work. Vallon has been able to grow a strong relationship between himself and the famed BGSU alumnus throughout his time as an undergrad.

During morning skate on game day, Vallon prepares his gear, put together with help from the Falcon Radio Network, in the press box at the Slater Family Ice Arena and as he prepares for mic tests.

BGSU Equipment Manager Scott Jess, also known as "Scooter," talks to Vallon during morning skate.

At the Michael & Sara Kuhlin Center, Vallon reads his notes while creating the pregame show in the studio.

The senior broadcasting student interviews Head Coach Ty Eigner before the puck drops at 7:07 on Friday night.

During a number of games, Ryan works with his co-host and fellow senior Kendall Linnenkugel to help commentate the games. Linnenkugel's experience includes helping create the Women's Ice Hockey Club team on campus over the past two years, having their first game in December of 2020.

Ryan Vallon commentates during the third period of the hockey game against the University of Alabama-Huntsville on Friday night. The Falcons go on to win 5-0 at the Slate Family Ice Arena.