Larry Munson

Larry Munson was an iconic American sports commentator best known as the passionate radio voice of the University of Georgia Bulldogs football team for over four decades. His dramatic, emotionally charged play-by-play style, filled with legendary catchphrases, made him a beloved figure throughout the Southeastern Conference and the state of Georgia. Munson's career, which began in the Midwest before his defining tenure in Athens, cemented his status as one of the most distinctive broadcasters in college football history.

Early life and career

Larry Kenneth Munson was born in Minneapolis and developed an early interest in radio while attending Roosevelt High School. He served in the United States Army during World War II before beginning his broadcasting career in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Munson's early work included calling minor league baseball for the Wyoming Cowboys and hosting a music show, but he soon transitioned to football and basketball play-by-play. His big break came when he was hired by Vanderbilt University in Nashville to broadcast Commodores games, a role that first brought him recognition within the Southeastern Conference.

University of Georgia broadcasting

In 1966, Munson was hired by station WGAU to become the lead announcer for the Georgia Bulldogs, beginning a 42-year association with the University of Georgia Athletic Association. He quickly became synonymous with the program's most memorable moments, calling games during the tenure of legendary coach Vince Dooley. Munson's voice was the soundtrack for Georgia's 1980 national championship season, the rise of stars like Herschel Walker, and numerous dramatic victories over rivals like the Florida Gators and Auburn Tigers. In 2001, his broadcasts moved to the Georgia Bulldogs Sports Network, where he continued until his retirement in 2008.

Signature calls and style

Munson was renowned for his intensely partisan, gravelly-voiced delivery, often openly pleading for Bulldog success and lamenting opponent's plays. He created a lexicon of unforgettable phrases that entered University of Georgia folklore, such as "Run, Lindsay, run!" from the 1980 victory over the Gators and "My God, a freshman!" heralding Herschel Walker's debut touchdown against the Tennessee Volunteers. Other famous exclamations included "We just stepped on their face with a hobnail boot" after a last-second win over the Volunteers in Neyland Stadium and "Look at the sugar falling out of the sky!" to celebrate clinching the Southeastern Conference title. His style was a stark contrast to the objective tone of many contemporaries, forging a deep, personal connection with his audience.

Legacy and honors

Munson's impact on University of Georgia athletics and broadcasting is permanently enshrined through numerous honors. He was inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame and the University of Georgia's Circle of Honor. The press box at Sanford Stadium was named the Larry Munson Memorial Press Box in his honor. In 2005, he received the prestigious Chris Schenkel Award from the National Football Foundation for his career contributions. His legendary calls are frequently replayed on broadcasts by the SEC Network and are integral to the cultural history of the Southeastern Conference. The Associated Press named him Georgia's Sportscaster of the Year multiple times.

Personal life and death

Munson was married to his wife, Gerry, from 1953 until his death, and the couple had four children. He was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman, interests he often mentioned during broadcasts. In his later years, Munson battled significant health issues, which contributed to his decision to retire from full-time broadcasting. He passed away in 2011 at his home in Athens due to complications from pneumonia. His funeral was attended by a host of University of Georgia dignitaries, former players, and coaches, including Vince Dooley, and was a statewide event covered extensively by media outlets like the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Category:American sports announcers Category:Georgia Bulldogs football broadcasters Category:2000 deaths