Griffin Della Penna Named Rochester Americans Play-by-Play Voice
The Western New York native takes over broadcast duties for the Sabres' AHL affiliate after Don Stevens' retirement.
Griffin Della Penna will be the new play-by-play voice of the Rochester Americans beginning with the 2026-27 season, the team announced on July 3.
Della Penna, a Batavia native, replaces Don Stevens, who retired after 40 years with the organization. In his new role, Della Penna will handle all radio and TV broadcasts for the Amerks, Buffalo's AHL affiliate, while also creating digital content and supporting community outreach initiatives.
"As a Western New York kid growing up in Batavia, it is surreal to be taking over for a legend like Don Stevens," Della Penna said in the team's release.
The 2026-27 season will mark Rochester's 71st year of operation. Della Penna most recently worked as director of creative content and multimedia reporter for the Coastal Athletic Association, where he covered men's and women's athletics across 13 member universities and appeared on FloSports and CBS Sports broadcasts.
Della Penna has been a regular presence on Amerks telecasts on CW Rochester for several years, providing rinkside analysis. This past season, he also served as in-arena host for select Buffalo Sabres home games, conducting intermission features and fan interviews.
His broadcasting experience includes more than 300 combined appearances on ESPN+ and ACC Network, primarily calling men's and women's basketball at Canisius University. He holds a master's degree in broadcast and digital journalism from Syracuse University's Newhouse School and multiple degrees from Canisius.
"Griffin has a unique skillset that we're confident will resonate well with Amerks fans," said Chad Buck, the team's vice president of business operations.
Della Penna began his sports media career as an intern with the Sabres and Buffalo Bandits, eventually becoming a regular contributor to the Sabres website and lead beat writer for Bandits coverage.
