Bob Ahlfeld, a familiar voice on the radio for Clarkson University Hockey fans, is stepping away from the microphone at B99.3 FM after a lengthy career calling Golden Knights games over the airwaves.

Ahlfeld, a Gift Planning Officer in Clarkson's Development Office, is setting aside the duties of play-by-play announcer for Clarkson Hockey to concentrate more of his time on his enhanced responsibilities within the department.

"I can't begin to thank the players, coaches, fans and staff for all the help I've received in broadcasting over the past two decades," stated Ahlfeld. "The best part about all of this is that I'm still able to be of service to this great University, though in another role. I'm looking forward to another great season of Clarkson Hockey."

The Massena, NY native, who holds the second-longest tenure of broadcasting Clarkson Hockey after legendary Con Elliott, has been a fan-favorite on the airways for nearly two decades. Ahlfeld, who announced his first game for the Green and Gold on October 18, 1996, never missed calling a Clarkson game during his distinguished career.

"Bob will certainly be missed on the airwaves," stated Clarkson Associate Athletic Director Scott Smalling. "Through his 19 years as the Voice of Clarkson Hockey, Bob did a phenomenal job covering the Golden Knights. He possesses a thorough knowledge of the program, was insightful and always represented the University well."

Beginning with a 7-4 Clarkson victory over Ohio State in Columbus through last season's ECAC Hockey playoff series against Rensselaer at Cheel Arena, Ahlfeld was behind the microphone for 729 Golden Knights Men's games. He also announced numerous Clarkson Women's games during the program's first 12 years, including the Knights' 2014 NCAA Championship game win over Minnesota.

"Bob has been one of the premier college hockey broadcasters of his time," said B99.3 FM Sports Director Chris Engel. "Clarkson has been very fortunate to have had someone so dedicated to his craft and been able to present the program in a positive light. He has been and will continue to be a tremendous influence on my career."

The 1999 ECAC Media Recognition Award winner and a well-known personality in broadcast booths throughout Division I hockey, Ahlfeld, called the action in five Clarkson NCAA Tournament appearances (1997, 1998, 1999, 2007, 2008), and five ECAC Hockey Tournament Championship games (1997, 1998, 1999, 2004, 2007). He also highlighted the play of eight Clarkson All-Americas.

"Bob was an integral part of getting Clarkson Hockey back on the hometown station, B99.3 FM," stated station General Manager John Winter. "In my short time working with Bob I always found him to be professional and well prepared in broadcasting Clarkson Hockey games. Bob will be missed, but I am looking towards Mike Vaillancourt to continue the excellent tradition of broadcasters covering Clarkson Hockey on B99.3FM."

Clarkson officially opens its 94th season of hockey on October 9 when the Knight host RIT at Cheel Arena. The Green and Gold host McGill University in an exhibition contest on October 3 prior to the start of the season.