Katie Gaus has become one of the most recognizable names in the world of hockey broadcasting. Known for her professionalism, charisma, and deep knowledge of the game, she has carved a path from small-market reporting to Emmy-winning sports journalism. From her early experiences with internships in professional hockey organizations to her on-camera roles with the Florida Panthers and Colorado Avalanche, Gaus continues to inspire fans, aspiring broadcasters, and women in sports media.

In this article, we take a detailed look at Katie Gaus, her career journey, education, personal life, and the qualities that have made her a respected voice in hockey media.

Early Life and Education of Katie Gaus

From Pennsylvania to the Big Stage

Katie Gaus was born and raised in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, a town with strong ties to sports culture. From an early age, she displayed a passion for communication and storytelling, which later shaped her career path in journalism.

College Years at SUNY Geneseo

Her academic journey began at SUNY Geneseo, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Studies in 2015. During this time, she became involved in student broadcasting, reporting for WGSU Geneseo as a sideline reporter. This experience gave her early exposure to live sports reporting and allowed her to develop confidence in front of the camera.

Master’s at Syracuse University

Following her undergraduate studies, Katie pursued a Master’s degree at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. Syracuse’s Newhouse School is among the most prestigious communications programs in the United States, and this advanced training helped sharpen her skills in writing, production, and on-camera presentation.

Katie Gaus and Her Early Career in Sports Media

Internships with Professional Hockey Teams

Katie Gaus began her professional journey as an intern with the Rochester Americans, the AHL affiliate of the Buffalo Sabres. Between 2013 and 2015, she hosted and produced the award-winning web series Amerks All Access: The Mind of a Goalie. This project earned her several accolades, including the Silver Telly Award of Highest Distinction and recognition at the AVA Digital Awards.

She also interned with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2014, gaining valuable behind-the-scenes experience in production, editing, and on-camera hosting for PensTV.

First Female Sports Anchor in Erie

In 2015, Katie joined WICU 12News in Erie, Pennsylvania, where she became the first female sports anchor in the Erie television market. She anchored and reported on local and national sporting events, covered major championships such as the Stanley Cup Finals, and conducted high-profile post-game interviews. Her time in Erie solidified her reputation as a pioneering voice for women in sports journalism.

Communications Role in the USHL

From 2018 to 2019, Gaus worked as Media & Communications Coordinator for the United States Hockey League (USHL). In this role, she managed press communications, produced content, and deepened her connection to the hockey community.

Katie Gaus and the Florida Panthers

Digital and Sideline Reporter

In 2019, Katie Gaus joined the Florida Panthers organization as a digital and sideline reporter. For three years, she covered NHL games, reported live from rinkside, and created digital content for the team’s platforms.

Her work with the Panthers highlighted her ability to connect with fans and players alike. Whether providing insights during intermissions or sharing stories through digital media, Gaus brought a professional yet approachable style that quickly earned her recognition.

Katie Gaus and the Colorado Avalanche

Host and Reporter for Altitude Sports

In June 2022, Gaus made a major career move by joining Altitude Sports & Entertainment as a host and reporter for the Colorado Avalanche. Her responsibilities included hosting pre-game and post-game shows, contributing to live game broadcasts, and featuring on the Avalanche flagship program Avalanche 360.

Community Recognition

During her tenure with Altitude, she earned admiration from fans and colleagues for her professionalism and engaging presence. She became a familiar face to Avalanche supporters, providing analysis and interviews throughout the team’s NHL campaigns.

Contract Non-Renewal

Despite her success, reports surfaced that Altitude did not renew her contract, leading to her departure after the 2023–2024 season. Fans expressed disappointment, recognizing her as one of the standout personalities in the Avalanche broadcast team.

Katie Gaus and The Hockey News

Expanding Horizons as NHL Host

After leaving Altitude, Katie Gaus transitioned into a new role as an NHL Host for The Hockey News, one of the most respected media outlets in hockey coverage. This move allowed her to continue working at the national level, engaging hockey fans across North America.

Her role involves hosting shows, conducting player interviews, and delivering in-depth hockey insights for a broader audience. This position underscores her versatility and staying power in the competitive world of sports journalism.

Awards and Honors of Katie Gaus

Emmy Award Winner

One of the proudest achievements of Katie Gaus’s career is her Emmy Award win, recognizing her outstanding contributions to sports broadcasting. This award solidified her place among the top talents in hockey media.

Additional Awards

• Silver Telly Award of Highest Distinction for Amerks All Access: The Mind of a Goalie.

• Gold AVA Digital Award for editing.

• Platinum AVA Digital Award in the sports category.

• Communicator Award of Distinction for excellence in digital communication.

These honors highlight her multifaceted skills, from hosting to production and creative development.

Personal Life of Katie Gaus

Marriage to Ryan Durocher

Beyond her professional achievements, Katie Gaus’s personal life has also been a source of joy. She married Ryan Durocher, an assistant hockey coach at Merrimack College, on August 23, 2025, in Lake Placid, New York. The couple had shared their relationship journey publicly on social media, often posting about their support for each other despite demanding careers.

A Passion for Family and Faith

Katie describes herself as a believer in faith, often including the cross symbol ✝️ in her bios. She is also a proud rescue dog mom, highlighting her love for animals. These personal details show a more human side to a broadcaster who balances a high-profile media career with a grounded, values-driven lifestyle.

Skills and Strengths of Katie Gaus

Writing and Creative Development

Katie’s background demonstrates her strong writing ability, script development skills, and creative storytelling talent.

Production Experience

From editing videos with Final Cut Pro and Adobe Suite to producing award-winning web series, her production expertise complements her on-camera presence.

On-Camera Confidence

Her ease on camera and ability to engage audiences make her a natural host and reporter, respected in a male-dominated industry like hockey broadcasting.

Why Katie Gaus Stands Out in Sports Broadcasting

A Role Model for Women in Sports Media

Katie Gaus is more than just a broadcaster; she is a trailblazer. Becoming the first female sports anchor in Erie and earning national recognition has made her an inspiration for young women aiming to enter the sports journalism field.

Dedication to Hockey

Her career path shows her unwavering dedication to hockey—from internships with the Rochester Americans and Pittsburgh Penguins to her current role with The Hockey News.

Resilience and Growth

Even after contract changes and career transitions, Gaus has consistently grown and adapted, proving her resilience in a competitive industry.

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Conclusion

Katie Gaus’s story is one of perseverance, talent, and passion. From her early beginnings in Pennsylvania to her Emmy-winning career as a hockey broadcaster, she has achieved milestones that many only dream of. Her journey through local TV, NHL sidelines, and national platforms like The Hockey News demonstrates her commitment to excellence.

With her marriage to Ryan Durocher, her continued dedication to hockey journalism, and her ability to inspire both fans and colleagues, Katie Gaus represents the best of sports media. Her name will continue to be associated with professionalism, integrity, and the excitement of the game she covers so well.