The Voice Of The Wildcats: Uncovering the Legacy of Kentucky's Iconic College Radio Station

Welcome to the ultimate guide to the Voice Of The Wildcats, the renowned college radio station of the University of Kentucky. For decades, this radio station has been the heartbeat of the university, serving as a platform to champion local talent, promote cultural diversity, and keep the community connected. Join us as we dive into the rich history, influential shows, and behind-the-scenes stories that have made Voice Of The Wildcats a beloved institution among students, alumni, and music enthusiasts alike.

The Birth of a Legend

Established in 1955, Voice Of The Wildcats emerged as a groundbreaking initiative that revolutionized the college radio scene. With a vision to provide an outlet for students to express their creativity and explore their passion for music, the Voice Of The Wildcats quickly gained popularity and became an integral part of student life.

Voice of the Wildcats: Claude Sullivan and the Rise of Modern Sportscasting

by Joe Cox (Kindle Edition with Audio/Video)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	39288 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	328 pages
Paperback	:	103 pages
Item Weight	:	5.3 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.24 x 9 inches

FREE

A Soundtrack of Kentucky

Beloved by Wildcats past and present, Voice Of The Wildcats has been weaving an eclectic tapestry of musical brilliance throughout its existence. Whether it's jazz, rock, hip-hop, or classical, there's something for every musical taste on this iconic radio station. From featuring local bands to hosting live performances from renowned artists, Voice Of The Wildcats continues to be a driving force in promoting both emerging and established talent.

Behind the Mic: The Voice of Triumph

Shining the spotlight on the people behind the mic, the Voice Of The Wildcats has been home to exceptional radio personalities who have become synonymous with the station's identity. Their captivating voices, engaging storytelling, and remarkable ability to connect with listeners have played a pivotal role in fostering a loyal community around Voice Of The Wildcats. From their early morning talk shows to late-night music features, these radio hosts have left an indelible mark on countless Wildcats' memories.

The Student Experience: Empowering Voices

Being a part of Voice Of The Wildcats offers students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the world of radio broadcasting. From hosting their own shows to curating playlists, the station allows aspiring broadcasters to hone their skills and explore their passions while balancing their academic pursuits. The welcoming atmosphere, supportive staff, and cutting-edge equipment make Voice Of The Wildcats the ultimate training ground for the radio stars of tomorrow.

Community Engagement: Beyond the Airwaves

While the airwaves capture the hearts of listeners, the Voice Of The Wildcats extends its influence beyond the radio. Engaging with the local community, the station actively participates in fundraising events, charity drives, and awareness campaigns, making a real difference in the lives of Kentuckians. The invaluable contributions made by Voice Of The Wildcats in areas such as education, healthcare, and social welfare have earned them a special place in the hearts of the community they serve.

The Legacy Continues

In , Voice Of The Wildcats stands tall as an iconic institution in the realm of college radio stations. Its rich history, diverse programming, and student-driven approach have made it an integral part of the University of Kentucky experience for generations. As the station continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of media, one thing remains constant – the unwavering commitment to providing a voice for the Wildcats and celebrating the power of music and community.

Voice of the Wildcats: Claude Sullivan and the Rise of Modern Sportscasting

by Joe Cox (Kindle Edition with Audio/Video)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	39288 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	328 pages
Paperback	:	103 pages
Item Weight	:	5.3 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.24 x 9 inches

FREE

As one of the first voices of the University of Kentucky men’s basketball program, Claude Sullivan (1924–1967) became a nationally known sportscasting pioneer. His career followed Kentucky’s rise to prominence as he announced the first four NCAA championship titles under Coach Adolph Rupp and covered scrimmages during the canceled 1952–1953 season following the NCAA sanctions scandal. Sullivan also revolutionized the coverage of the UK football program with the of a coach’s show with Bear Bryant—a national first that gained significant attention and later became a staple at other institutions. Sullivan’s reputation in Kentucky eventually propelled him to Cincinnati, where he became the voice of the Reds, and even to the 1960 Summer Olympic Games in Rome.

In Voice of the Wildcats: Claude Sullivan and the Rise of Modern Sportscasting, Claude’s son Alan, along with Joe Cox, offers an engaging and heartfelt look at the sportscaster’s life and the context in which he built his career. The 1940s witnessed a tremendous growth in sportscasting across the country, and Sullivan, a seventeen year old from Winchester, Kentucky, entered the field when it was still a novel occupation that was paving new roads for broadcast reporting. During the height of his career, Sullivan was named Kentucky’s Outstanding Broadcaster by the National Association of Sportscasters and Sportswriters for eight consecutive years. His success was tragically cut short when he passed away from throat cancer at forty-two

Featuring dozens of interviews and correspondence with sports legends, including Wallace “Wah Wah” Jones, Babe Parilli, Cliff Hagan, Ralph Hacker, Jim Host, Billy Reed, Adolph Rupp, and Cawood Ledford, this engaging biography showcases the life and work of a beloved broadcast talent and documents the rise of sports radio during the twentieth century.