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I listened to John Ward do UT football and basketball as a kid. He was my introduction and lifeline to UT sports. He made me a fan.

About the time he retired, I went in to the radio business, first in advertising sales, and then as a high school football play by play guy. About three years later, by happenstance, I ran in to him at an advertising seminar that he was speaking at. I introduced myself to him and before I could say anything else, he said "you are a high school football radio broadcaster, aren't you? I've listened to you a few times. You do a great job." After I said, yes, I am, the first thing that went through my mind was, geez Louise, the great John Ward actually knew who I was and had listened to me work.

The fact that he made it a point to say that to me struck me like a ton of bricks. For a man who was one of the best ever in his profession to tell me that just left me speechless. Here I was just a lowly high school radio play by play guy, yet he made it a point to encourage me. That meant the world to me.

He then told me that if I ever needed anything from him, to let him know, and he gave me his business card. I sincerely believed that he meant every word.

I had the chance to talk to him a couple of more times over the years, and he was always kind and complimentary of my work.

That's just the kind of guy he was. Although I tried not to emulate him on the air, John Ward certainly influenced me in my on the air personality and the way I made sure I was prepared for my broadcasts. That's what made him great. He was never surprised, and he was always prepared.

RIP, John Ward. You influenced entire generations.

Great story, Herb... thanks for sharing.

Yes, that is a great story.  I never had the fortune to cross paths with him, but like you, I grew up listening to him.  I remember listening to him call the football games while I was outside playing and took along my transistor radio.  And then there were all those winter nights where we heard him call the basketball games.  It seems like we had a radio on in every room at those times.

That just sums up the man and why he is so beloved in Tennessee. Nice post Herb.

Good story...Thanks! He was a incredible man. :powert:

Awesome