A grateful farewell to Bob Kesling, Tennessee Volunteers announcer for 26 years

A Grateful Farewell to Bob Kesling: Tennessee Volunteers Announcer for 26 Years

In a world where sports broadcasting is constantly evolving, there are few voices that transcend time and become synonymous with the teams they represent. For the University of Tennessee Volunteers, that voice has been Bob Kesling. For 26 years, Kesling has been the voice of Tennessee athletics, becoming an inseparable part of the fabric of Volunteer Nation. From the excitement of a game-winning touchdown to the somber silence of a tough loss, Kesling’s voice has been a steady companion for Tennessee fans across the state, region, and beyond.

As Kesling bids farewell to his role as the play-by-play announcer for Tennessee sports, it is only fitting that the Volunteer faithful take a moment to reflect on his illustrious career, his contributions to the program, and the profound impact he has had on the Tennessee athletic community. This is a tribute to a man who not only narrated the game but also helped shape the experience of Tennessee football, basketball, and other sports for over two decades.

The Early Years: A Voice That Was Destined for Radio

Bob Kesling’s path to becoming the voice of Tennessee Volunteers sports began long before he took his first broadcast microphone. Born in the small town of Kent, Ohio, Kesling developed a love for sports early on, growing up a fan of the Cleveland Browns, Indians, and Cavaliers. It was not long before Kesling realized that his passion for sports could merge with his natural talent for storytelling.

Kesling attended Kent State University, where he earned his degree in broadcast journalism. It was there that his passion for sports broadcasting began to crystallize, and he gained invaluable experience working for the university’s radio station. As a college student, Kesling already showed signs of his potential in the industry, honing his skills as a play-by-play announcer and developing a style that would later become his signature.

After college, Kesling began working in various local radio markets, gaining experience covering high school and college sports. His work in Ohio caught the attention of larger markets, and in 1990, he took a significant step forward in his career by joining the University of Tennessee’s radio network as a color commentator for football broadcasts. It was a pivotal moment that would eventually lead to Kesling becoming the iconic voice of the Volunteers.

Becoming the Voice of the Vols

In 1999, Kesling’s career took a monumental leap when he was chosen to replace the legendary John Ward as the play-by-play announcer for Tennessee Volunteers football. Ward had been the voice of the Volunteers for over three decades, becoming a beloved figure in Tennessee sports history. Replacing such an iconic figure was no small task, and the pressure on Kesling was immense. However, he was undeterred. Kesling embraced the challenge, understanding the responsibility of carrying on the rich tradition of Tennessee athletics and serving as the voice of a fanbase that expected nothing but the best.

From the very beginning of his tenure as the voice of the Vols, Kesling endeared himself to fans with his warm, engaging style and his knack for calling the game with an enthusiasm that matched the energy of the crowd. His ability to paint vivid pictures of the action, paired with his understanding of the nuances of the game, made every broadcast feel like a personal experience for listeners. He wasn’t just narrating plays; he was capturing the emotion, the drama, and the triumphs of Tennessee athletics in a way that resonated with fans, whether they were at Neyland Stadium or listening from their living rooms.

Kesling’s voice became synonymous with Tennessee football, basketball, and baseball. His rich, gravelly tone would ring out over the airwaves during critical moments in games, and his catchphrases, such as “Touchdown, Tennessee!” and “It’s good! It’s good!” became part of the lexicon of Volunteer fans. For decades, Kesling’s voice was not just heard; it was felt.

More Than Just Football: A Voice for All Tennessee Sports

Though Kesling is best known for his work calling Tennessee football games, his influence extended far beyond the gridiron. He became the play-by-play announcer for Tennessee basketball as well, providing the same level of enthusiasm, insight, and passion that made him a fan favorite in football. His calls of Tennessee’s thrilling victories in the NCAA Tournament, including their eventual run to the Final Four, will remain etched in the memories of fans who were fortunate enough to hear them live.

Kesling’s versatility as a broadcaster was on full display as he expanded his role to include baseball, calling games for the Volunteers’ baseball program. Whether it was football, basketball, or baseball, Kesling brought the same level of commitment and professionalism to every broadcast, treating each sport with the same respect and passion.

Tennessee fans were treated to a full spectrum of Kesling’s talents over the years, and he became a cherished voice not just for football but for every Volunteer sport. His tireless work ethic and devotion to the program made him a truly unique figure in the world of college sports broadcasting.

The Connection With Fans: Building Relationships Through the Mic

One of the most enduring aspects of Kesling’s career has been the personal connection he has built with Tennessee fans. Over the years, he has become more than just a voice; he has become a trusted companion to Vol Nation. Fans who tuned in every week did not just hear a broadcaster calling a game—they heard a friend, a guide, and a voice that understood the emotional highs and lows of being a Tennessee fan.

Kesling’s rapport with fans is a testament to his character and his love for the Tennessee program. He made it a point to engage with the Volunteer community, showing genuine interest in the lives of fans and the traditions that made Tennessee sports so special. Whether he was sharing anecdotes about his experiences with coaches, players, or fans, Kesling always kept the focus on the people who made Tennessee athletics so vibrant.

Perhaps one of the most endearing qualities of Kesling as a broadcaster was his ability to make every listener feel like they were part of the action, no matter where they were. Through his descriptive play-by-play, his ability to convey the drama of every game, and his infectious enthusiasm, Kesling created an experience for fans that went beyond the game itself. His broadcasts were not just about the action on the field—they were about the passion, the tradition, and the pride of being a Tennessee Volunteer.

Legacy and Impact on Tennessee Athletics

As Bob Kesling steps away from the microphone, his legacy within the Tennessee athletic community is secure. Over the course of his 26 years calling Tennessee games, Kesling became a beloved figure whose voice was as much a part of the program as any player or coach. His contribution to Tennessee athletics goes beyond simply calling games; it is about the relationships he built, the memories he helped create, and the sense of community he fostered.

Kesling’s work has had a profound impact on the Tennessee athletic department. His professionalism, commitment, and passion for the program set a standard for excellence that those who follow in his footsteps will be expected to uphold. He has set a bar for future broadcasters to not only capture the action but to create an emotional connection with the fans that transcends the game itself.

A Final Salute: Thank You, Bob Kesling

As Bob Kesling wraps up his career with the University of Tennessee, it’s important to acknowledge the gratitude that Vol Nation feels for his tireless dedication. His voice will forever be associated with some of the most iconic moments in Tennessee sports history, from the “Miracle at Mississippi State” in 2004 to the Vols’ comeback win over Florida in 2020. Through thick and thin, Kesling was always there, calling the action with enthusiasm, professionalism, and love for the program.

While Bob Kesling may be stepping away from the booth, his impact will be felt for years to come. Tennessee Volunteers fans will continue to remember his iconic calls, the way he captured the energy of Neyland Stadium, and the sense of pride he instilled in every listener. His voice will forever echo in the hearts of Tennessee fans, and his legacy will live on in the rich history of Tennessee athletics.

As he leaves the microphone for the final time, all that remains to say is a simple but heartfelt thank you. Thank you, Bob Kesling, for 26 unforgettable years. For every touchdown, every basket, every home run, and every victory, you were there, and we were all lucky to have you. You will always be a cherished part of Volunteer history, and your legacy will never be forgotten.

Vol Nation will forever be grateful.