IVAN STRAIN (GRASSROOTS CATEGORY)

For more than half a century, Ivan Strain has been a defining voice of hockey and community life in southwestern Manitoba. A native of Boissevain, Strain built a broadcasting career rooted in a deep connection to the region he served.

Joining CJRB Radio at its inception in 1973, Strain quickly became a trusted and familiar presence on the airwaves. While he began in sales, his passion for storytelling and sport led him behind the microphone, where he would spend decades covering local news, weather, and, most notably, hockey.

Strain’s impact on the game is measured not only in years, but in teams, and communities touched. Over a broadcasting career that spanned more than 30 years in play-by-play, he called hundreds of games across southwestern Manitoba, including the Southwest and Tiger Hills leagues, bringing the excitement of the game to listeners across the region. His voice became synonymous with grassroots hockey, capturing moments that might otherwise have gone unseen and preserving them for generations of fans.

Beyond the broadcast booth, Strain’s contributions to community life have been equally significant. A committed volunteer and community builder, he has supported tourism initiatives, contributed to local development projects, and lent his voice—literally and figuratively—to efforts that celebrate and promote his hometown.

Whether describing the action from a packed arena or supporting community initiatives off the air, Ivan Strain exemplifies the vital role of the local broadcaster in Manitoba’s hockey story. His career stands as a testament to an enduring commitment to the game and the communities it brings together.