Latest news with #AutoZoneLibertyBowl
USA Today
22-06-2025
- Business
- USA Today
FedEx's Fred Smith had unparalleled impact on Memphis sports including a PGA Tour stop
FedEx founder Fred Smith made his fortune and found his fame as a businessman. But, for all the renown he received by revolutionizing the global shipping industry, Smith's impact on sports in Memphis is equally immeasurable. It's a big reason former Memphis mayor Jim Strickland has described Smith as 'the most significant Memphian in history' on multiple occasions. Smith, who died June 21 at 80, leaves behind an unmatched legacy of involvement, investment and influence on much of what has made Memphis a proud and passionate sports city. 'Every big opportunity that we've had, either Fred Smith or Fred Smith and FedEx, they were always the game changer,' Memphis Tourism president and CEO Kevin Kane told The Commercial Appeal in 2023 when the publication named Smith its Sports Person of the Year. 'They were the reason why things happened.' Memphis is an NBA city thanks to Smith. Memphis is in position to remain an NBA city for the foreseeable future thanks to Smith. "Fred Smith has been a driving force in the Memphis community since day one, and his endless contributions as a civic leader and corporate citizen are a part of an incredible legacy that will be remembered in our community and country forever," Grizzlies owner Robert Pera said in a statement. Memphis (that is, the University of Memphis) is pushing for a Power 4 conference invitation by showing it can invest at the same level as Power 4 schools – thanks to Smith. Ed Scott, who was named Tigers athletic director in June 2024, said in a prepared statement on June 22 that the school and the athletic department are "deeply grateful to Fred Smith and his family for their unwavering support." "Fred was more than a visionary businessman – he was an icon and a servant leader whose impact on the Memphis community is immeasurable," Scott's statement continues. "Without his foresight and extraordinary generosity, neither Memphis Athletics nor the City of Memphis would be what they are today. On a personal note, over the past 11 months, Fred has been both a mentor and a friend to me." Scott also indicated the university looks forward to "honoring (Smith's) remarkable contributions in the days ahead." In 2023, when it seemed like the Tigers' vision of a $220 million renovation project at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium might never come to fruition, Smith came to the rescue. Former Memphis athletic director Laird Veatch, who is now the AD at Missouri, worked closely with Smith during his tenure with the Tigers. 'I am so grateful to have the opportunity to spend time with Mr. Fred Smith," he said in a statement to The Commercial Appeal. "He was the definition of a visionary − he saw things that others didn't see, and he saw them clearly. I am thankful for his impact on Memphis and America. Prayers and blessings to the Smith and FedEx families.' Memphis has established a rich football tradition in the form of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, the Southern Heritage Classic and, currently, as home to the UFL's Memphis Showboats thanks to Smith. Fred Smith made Memphis a key stop on the PGA Tour Memphis is home to one of the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup Playoff events (the FedEx St. Jude Championship), which since 2019 has brought dozens of the world's best golfers to TPC Southwind, shining one of the sport's brighter spotlights on Memphis – thanks to Smith. And the list goes on. Jack Sammons, general chairman of the FedEx St. Jude Championship and dear friend of Smith's for more than 30 years, said Smith deserves more credit than he could ever get. 'You take him out of the equation and the sports scene in Memphis – the highlight would be Babe Howard's Olympic (USA Stadium) or something. AutoZone Park would never have been built. Hell, The Peabody might never have been remodeled," Sammons told The Commercial Appeal June 22. "You start by the (Mississippi) river and go all the way to Collierville, you wouldn't get very far without saying, 'Yep, without Fred, that wouldn't be there,' just over and over." FedEx has been a title sponsor of Memphis' PGA Tour event since 1986, just 13 years after Smith oversaw the company's first flights take off from the Bluff City. Since then, it has become the title sponsor of the FedExCup (since 2007). In a prepared statement issued on June 22, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan called Smith 'the visionary of FedEx who led every day with tremendous character and values.' 'Fred and his company made significant contributions to the growth and popularity of PGA TOUR golf, and the TOUR continues to benefit from his and FedEx's influence, which will be felt for generations to come,' Monahan said. Smith's fingerprints are forever tattooed on Memphis' sports scene. Perhaps, however, none more prominently so than the Grizzlies. When the franchise's owner, Michael Heisley, decided to move it out of Vancouver in 2001, several cities were in the running for its ultimate destination. New Orleans (pre-Pelicans) and Anaheim were contenders. So, too, was Louisville. Memphis – which had long desired to be home to a major league sports organization only to come up short – emerged. Despite being the smallest market among the final four contenders, Smith's role in the negotiations was the difference. 'Heisley said the turning point in choosing Memphis over Louisville was the involvement of Memphis-based FedEx Corp., which will pay him for naming rights to the new arena,' The Commercial Appeal reported in 2001, when the deal came to fruition. FedEx paid a reported $92 million in the naming rights deal. In 2023, when the Grizzlies' immediate future in Memphis appeared, at least, a bit shaky, Smith stepped up again. The franchise's FedExForum lease agreement was soon due to expire, and officials were reluctant to renew without a major renovation project to update the downtown facility. Smith brokered a deal with local and state lawmakers that resulted in $230 million worth of state money being earmarked for FedExForum renovations. Smith's son, Richard Smith (president and CEO of airline and international at FedEx), said his father always believed deeply in the power of sports on community. "Look at your great cities in the U.S., look at your thriving cities, and they all have vibrant sports and entertainment," Richard Smith told The Commercial Appeal in 2023. "That's one of the great factors, the quality of life factors, that contributes to a great city. We think that's very important as far as being able to attract people to Memphis and to get them to want to stay in our headquarter city." Reach sports writer Jason Munz at follow him @munzly on X, and sign up for the Memphis Basketball Insider text group.
USA Today
23-04-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Remembering Mike Patrick: The Voice of ESPN's Sunday Night Football
Remembering Mike Patrick: The Voice of ESPN's Sunday Night Football On April 20, 2025, the sports broadcasting world lost a legend with the passing of Mike Patrick at age 80. Patrick, who died of natural causes in Fairfax, Virginia, had a 36-year legacy at ESPN, where his voice became synonymous with some of the most thrilling moments in sports. Most notably, he was the play-by-play announcer for ESPN's Sunday Night Football from 1987 to 2005, where he became one of the network's most influential voices. Patrick's journey began in 1982 when he joined ESPN, just three years after its inception. He had the honor of calling the network's first-ever regular-season NFL game in 1987, a matchup between the New England Patriots and the New York Giants, he launched ESPN's Sunday Night Football's 18-year run. Alongside analysts like Joe Theismann and Paul Maguire, Patrick's energetic delivery and insight brought games to life. His ability to capture the intensity of NFL Sundays made him a household name. Beyond football, Patrick had the same kind of excitement covering college basketball, where he called over 30 ACC championships, and the Women's Final Four from 1996 to 2009. "Mike had great energy and a keen knowledge of ACC basketball, and I truly enjoyed sitting next to him calling so many special games over the years." said Dick Vitale, his longtime broadcast partner and who gave Patrick the nickname 'Mr ACC'. Patrick's final call was the 2017 AutoZone Liberty Bowl, marking the end of an illustrious career. His voice, a soundtrack to American sports, will echo in the hearts of fans forever.
Irish Daily Star
23-04-2025
- Sport
- Irish Daily Star
Tributes paid to legendary ESPN commentator Mike Patrick after death, aged 80
Veteran ESPN commentator Mike Patrick has passed away at the age of 80, it was announced on Tuesday. According to ESPN, Patrick's doctor confirmed that he died of natural causes in Fairfax, Virginia. Patrick had been off the air since 2017, with his final broadcast being the AutoZone Liberty Bowl on December 30, 2017. Before his retirement, Patrick was the voice of ESPN's 'Sunday Night Football' coverage from 1987 to 2005. He also worked alongside Joe Theismann on ESPN's first NFL regular season game and spent many years partnering with Paul Maguire. The news of Patrick's passing was first shared by John Antonik, West Virginia University's Senior Director of Content, on social media. Antonik wrote on X: "Was passed along the very sad news from former broadcasting colleague Kevin Kiley that Mike Patrick passed away on Easter Sunday. Read More Related Articles Terry Bradshaw vows not to retire and lists three things he'll do until he dies Read More Related Articles Notre Dame star awaits NFL Draft shot despite ACL injury cutting season short "Although Mike didn't attend WVU, he was an unapologetic Mountaineer supporter and one the great broadcasters to ever call college and pro sports." The Athletic's Chris Vannini added on X: "RIP Mike Patrick, one of the great voices of ESPN college football in the 2000s and 2010s." ESPN's women's basketball reporter Holly Rowe shared her sorrow, starting her tribute with "This is heartbreaking. We spent many wonderful days mostly laughing then sprinkled in calling games. Mike Patrick was always an absolute delight." Fans and admirers of Patrick also expressed their condolences and offered prayers for his family. Former ESPN commentator Mike Patrick (C) died on Easter Sunday at the age of 80 (Image: Photo by) A fan reflected on their childhood memories, saying, "I grew up watching a lot of 'Sunday Night Football' as a kid and enjoyed Mike Patrick's calls with Joe Theismann in the booth," adding, "One of the best to do it in his field. Thinking of Mike Patrick's family, friends and colleagues." Patrick, who passed away recently, was not only known for his nearly two decades of 'Sunday Night Football' commentary but also for being a staple voice in ESPN's college sports coverage. He called over 30 ACC basketball championships and was a prominent figure in ESPN's Women's Final Four broadcasts from 1996 to 2009. In college football, Patrick lent his voice as the play-by-play announcer for 'Thursday Night Football' and 'Saturday Night Football,' as well as for the College World Series. Reflecting on his extensive tenure at ESPN, Patrick once shared his contentment and gratitude, remarking, "It's wonderful to reflect on how I've done exactly what I wanted to do with my life. At the same time, I've had the great pleasure of working with some of the very best people I've ever known, both on the air and behind the scenes." As he bid farewell to ESPN in 2018, he acknowledged his fulfilling career and cherished colleagues.
Time of India
23-04-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Mike Patrick, veteran ESPN broadcaster and voice of 'Sunday Night Football,' dies at 80
Mike Patrick , a familiar voice to generations of sports fans and one of ESPN 's earliest and most enduring broadcasters, has died at age 80. He passed away on Sunday in Fairfax, Virginia, due to natural causes, according to his longtime physician and friend. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Patrick joined ESPN in 1982, during its formative years, and spent 35 years with the network. He quickly became a prominent voice across multiple sports, most famously anchoring Sunday Night Football from 1987 until the franchise moved to NBC in 2006. During his tenure, he worked with analysts like Roy Firestone, Joe Theismann, and Paul Maguire . 'Mike Patrick called countless significant events over decades at ESPN and is one of the most influential on-air voices in our history,' said Burke Magnus, president of content at ESPN. 'In addition to calling ESPN's first-ever regular season NFL game and voicing the Sunday Night Football franchise, Mike's work on college sports was exceptional.' Beyond Football: A Versatile Sports Voice Patrick's broadcasting reach extended far beyond professional football. He called college football and both men's and women's basketball games for ESPN, becoming a trusted and recognizable presence on marquee matchups , especially those within the Atlantic Coast Conference. He covered over 30 ACC basketball championships and was the voice of ESPN's Women's Final Four from 1996 to 2009. His resume also included more than a decade of work on the College World Series between 2003 and 2014. 'Mike had great energy and a keen knowledge of ACC basketball, and I truly enjoyed sitting next to him calling so many special games over the years,' said longtime colleague Dick Vitale, who affectionately dubbed Patrick 'Mr. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now ACC.' Patrick's final broadcast was the 2017 AutoZone Liberty Bowl. He retired from ESPN the following year in 2018. Humble Beginnings and Lasting Legacy Born in 1944 in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Patrick grew up in the Chestnut Hills neighborhood and graduated from Washington Irving High School. He discovered his passion for broadcasting at George Washington University after stumbling on a campus poster inviting students to join the college radio station, WRGW. 'I went upstairs at 12:30 on a Monday afternoon and said, 'I'd like to be a sportscaster.' They said, 'Oh, we've got a show at 4.' … I had no idea what I was going to do, but I did the show from 4 to 5 that day, and I was hooked,' he recalled in a 2018 interview. After college, Patrick worked in various broadcast roles, including stints as a local sports reporter in Jacksonville, Florida, and Washington, D.C., before joining ESPN. In retirement, he remained a celebrated figure in his hometown. The city of Clarksburg honored him with a commemorative sign on the Second Street Parking Garage ramp. 'Mike Patrick's voice may have fallen silent, but his legacy as one of America's greatest sportscasters and a proud son of Clarksburg will endure,' the city said in a statement. Remembering the Man Behind the Mic Reflecting on his career, Patrick once said: 'It's wonderful to reflect on how I've done exactly what I wanted to do with my life. At the same time, I've had the great pleasure of working with some of the very best people I've ever known, both on the air and behind the scenes.' Mike Patrick leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, passion, and an unmistakable voice that became part of the soundtrack of American sports.
New York Post
23-04-2025
- Sport
- New York Post
Mike Patrick, longtime ESPN broadcaster and ‘Sunday Night Football' voice, dead at 80
Mike Patrick, who spent nearly four decades at ESPN as a broadcaster, died on Sunday. He was 80. The network said Patrick passed away in Virginia from natural causes. Advertisement 'Mike Patrick called countless significant events over decades at ESPN and is one of the most influential on-air voices in our history,' said Burke Magnus, president of content for ESPN. 'In addition to calling ESPN's first-ever regular season NFL game and voicing the 'Sunday Night Football' franchise for 18 seasons, Mike's work on college sports was exceptional. 3 Former ESPN broadcaster Mike Patrick (C) is honored by Duke Senior Associate Director of Athletics Jon Jackson (L) and Duke Deputy Director of Athletics Mike Cragg during the game between the Louisville Cardinals and the Duke Blue Devils at Cameron Indoor Stadium on February 21, 2018 in Durham, North Carolina. Getty Images 'For 36 years, he called football and men's and women's basketball, including the Women's Final Four and so many historic matchups between ACC rivals Duke and UNC. Our deepest condolences to Mike's family and his many friends throughout the industry.' Advertisement Patrick, a graduate of George Washington University, started broadcasting in the 1960s and joined ESPN in 1982 after calling games for Maryland's basketball and football teams and preseason contests for Washington's NFL franchise. He was on the call for the channel's first-ever regular season NFL game and was the play-by-play voice of 'Sunday Night Football' from 1987-2005. He was also a prominent fixture for ESPN's college basketball coverage and called at least three dozen ACC men's tournaments while also announcing women's March Madness for 13 years (1996-2009). 3 ESPN announcer Mike Patrick at dinner after Booz Allen Classic Pro Am, Congressional Country club in Bethesda, Maryland on Wednesday, June 8th, 2005. Getty Images Advertisement He called his final game during the 2017 AutoZone Liberty Bowl and officially retired a few months later in 2018. There was an outpouring of memories and tributes from around sports and sports media following the news of his death. 'So sorry to learn of the passing of the great Mike Patrick. Mike was the voice of ACC Basketball when I was a player, and I had the honor of working with him and calling him a friend,' ESPN analyst Jay Bilas wrote on X. 'Mike Patrick was a pro's pro. RIP Mike Patrick.' 3 ESPN television announcers Len Elmore (L) and Mike Patrick pose for pictures dressed in 1980s clothing before the start of a retro night game between the Virginia Cavaliers and the North Carolina Tar Heels in an Atlantic Coast Conference game on February 16, 2005, at the Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Getty Images Advertisement 'This is heart breaking,' ESPN colleague Holly Rowe wrote. We spent many wonderful days mostly laughing then sprinkled in calling games. Mike Patrick was always an absolute delight.' I was so saddened to just learn of the passing of MIKE PATRICK – loved working with Mike on many fantastic @theACC hoop games,' Dick Vitale added. 'I called Mike Mr ACC ! My sympathy goes out to his wife Janet.'
