The Columbus Blue Jackets’ decision to simulcast the NHL team’s television broadcast has cost Somerset native and former Johnstown Chiefs play-by-play man Bob McElligott his position in the radio booth.

“My contract as the team’s radio play-by-play announcer will not be renewed,” McElligott stated in a Facebook post on Wednesday. “I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the McConnell family and the Blue Jackets organization for the privilege of calling games for the past 17 years.”

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Mike Mastovich is a sports reporter and columnist for The Tribune-Democrat. He can be reached at (814) 532-5083. Follow him on Twitter @Masty81.