After more than two decades behind the mic, John Gurtler has become the unmistakable voice of the Buffalo Bandits. As he approaches his 400th consecutive broadcast, Gurtler’s legacy is as deeply woven into the fabric of the franchise as any player who has worn the orange and black. With an encyclopedic knowledge of Bandits history and an unwavering passion for the game, Gurtler has called some of the most iconic moments in team history—moments that still echo through Banditland.
Recently, Bandits.com sat down with Gurtler to reflect on his journey—from his meticulous pregame rituals to his favorite moments and most entertaining players. The conversation pulled back the curtain on a broadcaster who prepares like a player, broadcasts with the heart of a fan, and continues to help shape the story of Buffalo lacrosse.
Preparation, Precision, and Passion
Gurtler’s preparation for each game begins well before the opening faceoff. “I generally start on Monday,” he explained, giving himself time to digest the previous week’s performance and collect insights from radio interviews and postgame content. He tracks scoring trends in five-game chunks, studies opponents thoroughly, and compiles condensed “cheat sheets” with key stats for both teams.
Though only about 20% of his notes make it into a live broadcast, Gurtler insists the other 80% is just as important. “You have to have it prepared,” he said. “If the game gets out of hand or slows down, you want to have something ready to spark the conversation.” It’s this kind of dedication that separates a great broadcaster from a good one—and makes Gurtler a cornerstone of the Bandits experience.
Favorite Bandits Moments
With nearly 400 games called, Gurtler has seen it all. But a few moments still stand out.
One of his most memorable games came during his first season in 2004. The Bandits finished the regular season 8-8 but stunned the powerhouse Toronto Rock in a playoff thriller at the Air Canada Centre to earn a spot in the finals. “That was a huge move for the Bandits,” Gurtler recalled.
The 2008 championship win over Portland also ranks high. “It came down to a one-goal decision,” he said. “It was great to capture that championship.”
And then there was the unforgettable play designed by legend John Tavares in Boston. Following a timeout, Tavares led a coordinated burst that resembled a rugby scrum, with five players charging in unison before breaking apart to attack the net. “I’d never seen it before—and I don’t think we’ll ever see it again,” Gurtler said. “It always sticks in my mind.”
More recently, Game 2 of last year’s semifinals against Toronto left an impression. “Toronto really took it to the Bandits early,” Gurtler said, “but for the Bandits to turn the tables and win that game—and the series—was phenomenal.”
The Players Who Made the Calls Special
When asked about the most entertaining player he’s ever covered, Gurtler didn’t hesitate: Mark Steenhuis.
“Hands down,” he said. “He resurrected the franchise beginning in 2004. He was the phoenix.” With his wavy red hair, orange shoes, and high-octane play style, Steenhuis was more than a player—he was a performer, a fan favorite, and a trendsetter.
“He was always funny, a jokester, kept the guys loose,” Gurtler said. “And he was always carrying his stick—everywhere. I once saw him walking in Calgary on game day with it in his hand.”
Of course, legends like John Tavares, Rich Kilgour, and Cory Bomberry also earned Gurtler’s admiration. “Tavares was just a great player. Kilgour, solid everywhere. Bomberry had that hard, recognizable shot. But Steenhuis…he left an impression.”
Elevating Banditland
Gurtler doesn’t just call games—he brings fans along for the ride. His strategy? Highlight the culture of Banditland itself. “You want to create a narrative where the fans feel like they’re right there with you,” he said. By spotlighting the crowd energy, traditions, and emotional highs and lows of each game, Gurtler helps deepen the bond between the team and its devoted fanbase.
As he closes in on game number 400, John Gurtler’s voice continues to be the soundtrack of Bandits lacrosse. With every call, every goal, and every championship moment, he’s not just chronicling the game—he’s amplifying the roar of Banditland. And for fans across Buffalo and beyond, the game just wouldn’t be the same without him.
