Shawn Simpson was a Canadian former professional ice hockey goaltender, NHL executive, and sports broadcaster. Born on August 10, 1968, in Gloucester, Ontario, Canada, he played in the AHL for the Baltimore Skipjacks and was a Washington Capitals draft pick. Though his professional playing career was brief, he went on to work in hockey management and broadcasting, becoming a well-known TSN 1200 radio personality in Ottawa.
Tragically, Shawn Simpson passed away on January 29, 2025, at the age of 56. His cause of death was not publicly disclosed, but he had previously spoken openly about his struggles with mental health.
This article explores Shawn Simpson’s biography, age, family, career, achievements, cause of death, and lesser-known facts.
Shawn Simpson Short Details
| Full Name | Shawn Simpson |
|---|---|
| Nickname | “Simmer” |
| Profession | Former Ice Hockey Player, NHL Executive, Sports Broadcaster |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Date of Birth | August 10, 1968 |
| Age (at the time of death) | 56 years old |
| Birthplace | Gloucester, Ontario, Canada |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Weight | 155 lb (70 kg) |
| Position | Goaltender |
| Playing Career | 1988–1991 |
| Teams Played For | Baltimore Skipjacks (AHL) |
| Drafted By | Washington Capitals (60th overall, 1986 NHL Draft) |
| Career as Executive | Washington Capitals (1993–2004), Toronto Maple Leafs (2004–2008) |
| Broadcasting Career | TSN 1200 Radio (2012–2023) |
| Date of Death | January 29, 2025 |
| Cause of Death | Not Publicly Disclosed |
Early Life and Hockey Career
Early Years in Hockey
Shawn Simpson was born and raised in Gloucester, Ontario, Canada. He played junior hockey for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
His talent as a goaltender earned him recognition, and in 1986, he became the first goalie selected in the NHL Draft, chosen 60th overall by the Washington Capitals.
In 1987, he was part of Team Canada’s World Junior Hockey Team that became famous for the Punch-up in Piestany, a bench-clearing brawl between Canada and the Soviet Union that led to both teams being disqualified from the tournament.
AHL Career
- Played for: Baltimore Skipjacks (Washington Capitals’ AHL affiliate)
- Seasons: 1988–1991
- Games Played: 35
- NHL Appearances: Dressed as backup for two Stanley Cup Playoff games but never played in the NHL.
Unfortunately, injuries forced Simpson to retire early from professional hockey.
Post-Hockey Career in Broadcasting and Management
Washington Capitals (1993–2004)
After retiring as a player, Simpson transitioned to hockey management and broadcasting:
- Color commentator for the Capitals’ TV network while attending Georgetown University for law school.
- Became a scout for the Washington Capitals (1993–1997).
- Promoted to Director of Hockey Operations (1997–2004).
- Served as General Manager of the AHL’s Portland Pirates (Washington’s AHL affiliate).
Toronto Maple Leafs (2004–2008)
- Joined Toronto Maple Leafs as a professional scout in 2004.
- Worked four years with the Leafs before being let go in 2008 as part of a front-office shake-up.
HC Dinamo Minsk (2009)
- Worked as Deputy Director of Hockey Operations in the KHL.
- Fired after a few months in October 2009.
Cape Cod Cubs (2010)
- Became President of the Cape Cod Cubs, a team in the International Junior Hockey League.
Broadcasting Career: TSN 1200 (2012–2023)
- In 2012, Simpson returned to Ottawa and joined TSN 1200 radio.
- Co-hosted “The Drive” with Ian Mendes, covering Ottawa Senators games and NHL analysis.
- Later became the morning host of “Mornings with John Rodenburg”.
- Known for his bold opinions, humor, and deep NHL knowledge.
- Terminated by Bell Media in 2023 as part of network layoffs.
Death and Legacy
Cause of Death
Shawn Simpson passed away on January 29, 2025, at the age of 56. His cause of death was not publicly disclosed, but he had been open about his struggles with mental health in recent years.
Tributes from the Hockey Community
- Ottawa Senators honored him with a moment of silence before their game against the Washington Capitals.
- Former co-host Ian Mendes wrote a heartfelt tribute, stating: “My only wish is that you are now free from that pain and agony. You were a beautiful, kind soul who didn’t deserve the weight you carried.”
- NHL teams, media personalities, and fans expressed shock and sadness over his passing.
- Former colleagues described him as a passionate, witty, and knowledgeable hockey analyst.
Shawn Simpson’s Family and Personal Life
| Family Member | Relation |
|---|---|
| Parents | Names Not Publicly Available |
| Siblings | Not Publicly Available |
| Spouse | Not Known |
| Children | Not Known |
Shawn was deeply involved in mental health advocacy, often speaking about the challenges faced by athletes and broadcasters.
Lesser-Known Facts About Shawn Simpson
- First goaltender selected in the 1986 NHL Draft.
- Part of the infamous “Punch-up in Piestany” at the 1987 World Juniors.
- Never played an NHL game but dressed as a backup for two Capitals playoff games.
- Attended law school at Georgetown University while working as a broadcaster.
- Was promoted to Washington Capitals’ Director of Hockey Operations in 1997.
- Worked in NHL front offices for 15 years before transitioning to radio.
- Was fired from Toronto Maple Leafs and HC Dinamo Minsk in major team shake-ups.
- Became a key voice in Ottawa sports media through TSN 1200.
- Was open about his struggles with mental health and advocated for awareness.
- Was known for his humorous and strong opinions in hockey discussions.
FAQs About Shawn Simpson
1. What was Shawn Simpson’s cause of death?
His cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, but he had previously spoken about mental health struggles.
2. Did Shawn Simpson play in the NHL?
No, he was drafted by the Washington Capitals but only played in the AHL. He dressed as an NHL backup for two playoff games but never played.
3. What was Shawn Simpson’s role in hockey after retiring?
He worked as a broadcaster, scout, NHL executive, and radio host.
4. Why was Shawn Simpson fired from TSN 1200?
Bell Media terminated him in 2023 as part of network layoffs.
5. What was his connection to the Ottawa Senators?
He covered the team extensively as a TSN 1200 broadcaster and analyst.
Conclusion
Shawn Simpson was a respected figure in the hockey world, known for his knowledge, humor, and passion for the game. His journey from player to executive to broadcaster showcased his love for hockey. His passing at 56 was a huge loss to the sports community, but his legacy as a broadcaster and mental health advocate will be remembered.
This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are encouraged to verify details independently.
