Terry Murray, known by many as the “voice of hockey in the north”, has returned to Thompson and the C.A. Nesbitt Arena to announce for the male hockey competition at the 2026 Manitoba Games.

A longtime Thompson resident, Murray was integral to founding the Norman Northstars U18 AAA hockey program. He continued to be involved in the program for many years, serving as President of the board, but also becoming well-known for his skills as the announcer. 

“Everybody wanted Terry to announce the hockey games from the penalty box”, said Kathy Valentino, Thompson city councillor and founder of the Norman Northstars U15 AAA program. “Everybody became very familiar, in northern Manitoba, with Terry Murray’s voice.”

Justin Valentino, coach of the U18 Norman Northstars, also spoke to the role that Murray played in hockey in northern Manitoba.

“The biggest thing is (he is) just a familiar voice. Everyone knows him as the Northstar announcer for how many years, so it’s great to hear his friendly voice back in the community”. Justin recalled Murray being the announcer when he played for the Northstars in the early 2010’s. He noted that anyone who played hockey in northern Manitoba or in the MJHL during Murray’s tenure would know his voice and likely have had a game called by him.

2026 Manitoba Games Host Committee Co-Executive Director and 1994 Manitoba Games Torch Bearer, Todd Harwood, affirms: “He is so good. So good!”

After retiring, Murray left Thompson for Gilbert Plains, where he was quickly recruited to be the voice of the Dauphin Kings of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League for several years. Although he is officially retired from announcing, Murray will still do special guest appearances, such as lending his voice to the Manitoba Games.

When asked, should Thompson host the Games again, if organizers would seek to bring Murray back, Justin said, “I would try my best to get him back.”

News of Murray’s return to Thompson was shared on Facebook, where a post read: “A legendary voice from a bygone era returns to Thompson for the Winter Games. Thank you Terry Murray for traveling north and reminding use of your exceptional public announcing skills.” The comments on the post echoed the excitement and gratitude for Murray’s return.

Kathy did mention Murray’s one downfall.

“He is a huge Boston Bruins fan, and it’s important that that gets put out there”.

Justin declined to comment on Murray’s choice of team, saying “I’m not a Bruins fan, but that is a loaded question.”

Taste in NHL teams aside, there is no doubt that it is good to have the voice of the north back home.