MEDIA OPERATIONS

Geoff is an award-winning (RTDNA/Edward R. Murrow) and Gemini-nominated videographer with 25 years of broadcast television experience on multiple levels, including community programming, commercial and corporate production, sports, local and national news.

Geoff began his broadcasting career right here in the West Kootenay in the early 90s, covering local events, including 'live' coverage of Smokies games on ShawTV under the direction of Ralph DiSabato. Shooting and producing hockey for broadcast has always been a passion of Geoff's and he's thrilled to be back in the Kootenays, working with such an amazing organization as the Trail Smoke Eaters and the best production crew in the BCHL!

In addition to broadcast operations, Geoff is also responsible for the Smoke Eaters' online presence, including web, social media and visual marketing.

Email: g.fontes [at] trailsmokeeaters.com

This all started in a high school guidance counsellors office when Chris was asked, “What do you want to do with your life?”  He said he didn’t know. His Mom was in that meeting too and said, “Well, he does this thing where he pretends he’s a radio DJ and prank calls people”.  When he's not hosting the Midday Show on EZ Rock Kootenays, Chris's voice can be heard booming through the historic Cominco Arena, from announcing goals to getting fans on their feet to Make Some NOIIIIIISE!!!

Before joining the Smoke Eaters in 2019, Ben had spent the previous two seasons as the play-by-play announcer and social media manager for the PJHL’s North Van Wolf Pack, earning the honour of Broadcaster of the Year for the 2018-19 season. In addition to his time with the Wolf Pack, Ben was also the voice of the North West Hawks of the BC Major Midget League this past season, as well as providing colour commentary for the BCHL’s Langley Rivermen.

DAVID LABUTE | Assistant Director, Instant Replay, Graphics

VICTOR SPATARI | Camera

JAKE GACH | Sound

HELEN BOBBITT | Sound

JOHN PICCOLO | Instant Replay, Camera, Sound, Lighting

JOSH DERKSEN | Camera

CALEB FRIESEN | Camera

IAIN BLAYNEY | Camera

JACKSON FANCE | Camera, Sound

CLAIRE SCHAU | Camera

JORDAN FONTES | Lighting, Camera, Instant Replay

JONELLE PICCOLO | Lighting, Sound

BRIAN MALITO | Camera

*Want to join the Broadcast Crew? Email: g.fontes [at] trailsmokeeaters.com