View from the Gondola

In 1994 I finally received THE CALL.  Bob Wilber, General Manager of the Kansas City Attack soccer team, left the message he liked my work.

He didn’t ask the question others had asked……”Do you have experience broadcasting pro or major college sports?”  While I enjoy calling high school sports I’ve always wanted to be the “voice” of a pro team.

Those who broadcast high school sports face obstacles not encountered in the pro ranks.

Sure there are occasional logistic issues to overcome in large arenas.  While working for the Topeka ScareCrows  I once had to sit in the general seating area using an extended phone line connected to the press box.  A police tape barrier surrounded me and while our bus driver sat nearby to ensure I was not hassled.  That night the ScareCrows visited the team with one of the best names ever, the Macon Whoopee.

Logistic issues occur more often at the high school level.  School personnel are overworked and wear many hats, thus assisting the broadcaster cannot be a priority.

In the mid-80s three radio stations covered a football playoff game at Hardin, MO.  Minutes before kickoff the announcers were asked to re-locate to the press box roof.  Some used Marti units which required cool down time before shutdown.  Sudden relocation can be hazardous to the equipment.

Since I was assisted by an 80-something commentator I was not forced to climb the narrow ladder to the top. 

Recently I was sent to the roof to cover a game at North Kansas City.  Standing close by was the band director’s husband who didn’t want our halftime comments included on his recording of their performance.  We covered our mouths with our backs to the field during our halftime report.

I am thrilled I’ve had the opportunity to overcome these challenges.  They have made me a better announcer.