About the Guest(s):
Van Vance is a veteran sportscaster renowned for his association with WHAS TV and radio in Louisville, Kentucky. He served as the iconic play-by-play voice for the Kentucky Colonels of the American Basketball Association (ABA) and University of Louisville's football and men's basketball teams. With a career that spans decades, Van has witnessed thrilling sports milestones, including the 1975 Kentucky Colonels ABA Championship and the University of Louisville's 1986 NCAA basketball victory.
Episode Summary:
Join host Gary Fogle as he dives into the incredible life and career of Van Vance in this week's episode of Kentucky Sports Memories. Van Vance, known for his dynamic voice in sports broadcasting, shares his journey from a small town in Kentucky to becoming a prominent sportscaster in the region. With a passion for sports ignited early in his life, Van's story is peppered with anecdotes from his high school basketball days, his transition into sports broadcasting, and his love for fishing.
This episode shines a light on Van Vance's illustrious career as a sportscaster who covered significant basketball events, such as the Kentucky Colonels' triumph in the 1975 ABA Championship and being the voice behind the Louisville Cardinals' 1986 NCAA Championship win. Relive the captivating moments of the 1983 Dream Game between UK and UofL as Van recounts his experiences. Despite stepping back from active broadcasting, Van remains vibrant, fueling his passion for fishing and continuing to influence the sports community. This engaging conversation captures the essence of an industry veteran's impactful journey through the realms of sports journalism and lifelong hobbies.
Key Takeaways:
Van Vance paved his path to sportscasting greatness after honing his skills as an athlete in Barron County, Kentucky.
He served as the charismatic voice of the Kentucky Colonels during their successful ABA Championship win in 1975.
Van shares personal stories from the iconic 1983 “Dream Game” between UK and UofL, crystallizing historical sports moments.
His legacy continues to inspire aspirant sportscasters, echoing his substantial contributions to sports journalism.
Notable Quotes:
"Two of the greatest moments in my career... was in 1975 when the Colonels won the championship." - Van Vance
"The dream game in Knoxville, Tennessee... all of the people in there for... were all wearing either blue or red." - Van Vance
"I actually like... drove 3 hours to Salina, Tennessee and fished... that's how much I was into fishing." - Van Vance
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