“My wife is incredibly understanding,” Figurski said. “She knows how much I love doing it.” Even a heart attack in 2008 failed to slow him down. Figurski still plays hockey on a regular basis. “I love the game,” he said. “To follow the Red Wings’ top affiliate and cover the team I love the most – and get paid to do it – is a dream come true.” Figurski got the chance to do play-by-play for the fi st time this season while subbing for his broadcast partner, and Kaser said his sidekick In addition to his duties as a sports anchor at WOOD-TV8, Figurski is a weekend news anchor at performed admirably. “I heard enough to know the station. that Larry did a really, really good job,” Kaser for the game. “I felt an obligation to the Griffins said, “to the point that if he decided to do it full and the station for accommodating me over the time, I would feel threatened.” years, so I missed the party. And then we lost.” As far as Kaser is concerned, he feels very His family knew how much the opportunity lucky to have a polished professional of Figurski’s meant. His dedication to his work was no caliber in the booth. surprise to his wife, Lisa, a teacher at Grandville “I’d put him up against any color analyst in our Middle School, or their two daughters. Raychel league and a good number of those in the NHL,” is a sophomore at Western Michigan University, Kaser said. “Without a doubt, he’s the best I have where she runs cross-country, while Samantha is worked with. We’re very fortunate to have him. I a sophomore at Grandville High School, where absolutely love working games with him.” she plays varsity soccer.
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Grand Rapids GRIFFINS • 2013 Calder Cup Champions
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