Ken 'Friar' Nicolson first became involved in the world of sports as an athlete in Fort William participating in hockey during the 1950s and 60s. Attending Selkirk High School, Friar was a co-captain of the Selkirk Rams Football team and it was here that he got his first start announcing games, going on to enjoy a successful 30 year sports broadcasting career.

In the early 1960s Friar became employed as a part-time broadcaster with CJLX Radio covering local hockey and minor sports. Appointed full time sports director for CJLX Radio in 1965 he won the Guy Perciante Memorial Award that same year for his contributions to the sports media. In 1966 he joined CKPR Radio and TV, moving to southern Ontario the following year to announce Junior A Hockey in London.

In 1967 Friar made the move to Winnipeg which would become his permanent home. Joining CJOB Radio as their Sports Director in 1969, Friar did Blue Bomber play-by-play for three years along with covering curling events such as the Brier and World Championships.

In 1972 Friar became the 'Voice of the Winnipeg Jets’ of the World Hockey Association. For over 20 years he brought the thrill and excitement of the hockey games to his legion of fans. With the broadcasting rights to the Jets moving to CKY Radio Ken followed his team, becoming their Colour Commentator and Hockey Coordinator, celebrating his 1,000 mark of broadcasting pro hockey games in 1982.

The Friar never forgot his roots, often travelling back to his hometown of Thunder Bay when asked to participate in various fundraising events. He used his celebrity for many worthy causes, raising thousands of dollars for both the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, and the 'Friar' Nicolson Diabetes Foundation. His contributions were recognized with his induction into the Manitoba Hockey Wall of Fame in 1990. Sadly this well known and successful broadcaster passed away in 1992 after a courageous battle with diabetes.

Inducted into the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, September 26, 1998