For the first time since the conclusion of the 2003/04 Stanley Cup Finals, CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada hits the ice, Saturday, Oct. 8, marking the continuation of a beloved, long-standing Canadian tradition. From Saturday night doubleheaders, to CBC’s annual Hockey Day in Canada extravaganza, to the NHL playoffs and the Stanley Cup Finals, CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada is back—and better than ever.

The legendary Don Cherry will be pulling no punches when he returns to his usual spot on Coach’s Corner beside his popular partner Ron MacLean during the first intermission of Game One of the Saturday night doubleheaders. The tradition also continues as Bob Cole and Harry Neale return to the broadcast booth to handle the play-by-play and colour commentary for Game One.

Joining CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada broadcast team this October is play-by-play announcer Jim Hughson—one of the game’s most respected and seasoned broadcasters. Hughson, a Gemini Award-winner in 2004 for sports play-by-play, brings more than 23 years of NHL broadcast experience to CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada; he’ll call the second game of the Saturday night doubleheaders alongside Greg Millen.

“We’re thrilled to be back broadcasting Canada’s game,” says Nancy Lee, executive director of CBC Sports. “Jim is an excellent addition to our broadcast team and will assist us in providing hockey fans with unrivaled coverage of their beloved pastime.”

Commentators Scott Oake, Kelly Hrudey and Elliotte Friedman will also be back, providing fans with timely updates, compelling insights and interesting analysis. The second intermission segment Satellite Hotstove, hosted by MacLean, will return to CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada broadcast in addition to Saturday Night, the pre-game show, and After Hours, the post-game show.

“Our whole team simply cannot wait for October to arrive,” states Joel Darling, executive producer of CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada. “We are gearing up for an exciting and unforgettable season, and with the addition of Jim to our exceptional broadcast team we will continue to offer the highest quality of hockey television production.”