GORHAM, Maine – Longtime Huskies ice hockey broadcaster Jim Ward has been selected by the University of Southern Maine Department of Athletics as the 2023 recipient of the David F. Drew III Service Award.  The David F. Drew III Service Award is presented to a member of the Husky community who distinguishes themselves with volunteer service to the athletic department.  This award is exceptionally prestigious from USM Athletics, as without its numerous volunteers, dedicated employees and community members, Husky teams, student-athletes and coaches would not have achieved their levels of success.
 
"The David F. Drew Award is presented to someone who steps up and gives of themself through consistent service, volunteer work or by going the extra mile to aid in the overall success of the Huskies athletic program.  Jim Ward has been the voice of USM Hockey for more than 20 years and his resume clearly fits that description," said Director of Athletics Al Bean.  "He is meticulous in his approach to his website broadcasts for both our men and women's programs. Jim goes above and beyond to have additional interviews, relevant statistical data and news from the collegiate hockey world during his broadcasts."
 
Ward has served as the play-by-play announcer for Southern Maine ice hockey since 1999.  From the days of games being broadcast over radio to the current streaming set-up, Ward has enhanced the consumption experience for Husky fans with his electric goal calls, unique turns of phrase, and passion for the sport of hockey while expertly calling the on-ice action.  Ward is a staple of the USM Ice Arena and a fan-favorite for both his work on the mic and his outgoing and friendly personality.  In addition to hockey, Ward has lent his voice to the broadcasts of Southern Maine baseball, softball and men's and women's basketball.  He has called numerous playoff games throughout his tenure including the 2006 NCAA Women's D-III Basketball Final Four.
 
Ward has also had a lengthy radio career with WMPG-FM 90.9.  The former sports director of the station and a current DJ/producer, Ward hosts the weekly "The Harp and Bard Irish Radio Program with Jim Ward" program.  His passion for sports goes beyond broadcasting as he spent 35 years as a Little League umpire.
 
"Jim is not just a broadcaster; he is clearly a fan as well.  His excitable style provides the hometown fans with a unique play-by-play delivery that leaves little question to the colors he wears so proudly.  I'm very pleased to honor Jim for his longtime service and dedication to the program," added Bean.
 
The Drew Service Award will be presented to Ward during the 37th Annual Husky Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremony on Sunday, October 15 (5:00 pm) at the Italian Heritage Center in Portland, Maine presented by Gorham House of Pizza.