Voice Of The Vols Mike Keith On John Ward: ‘He’s The Reason I Do This’
By Cody McClure
Voice of the Vols Mike Keith joined Fanrun Radio’s “The Drive” this afternoon to speak about his new role at UT.
Afternoon host Russell Smith — who did not ask Keith whether or not he would still say “SAAAAAAAAACCCCKKKKKKK” on broadcasts even though I asked him to — wanted to know how John Ward’s influence has made an impact on the Vols’ new play-by-play man.
“How long you got?” Keith asked before going into detail about his relationship with Ward.
Keith mentioned three or four things Ward left him with, including the need to be highly prepared. He pointed out how Ward emphasized describing the action on the field as opposed to being worried about making witty comments.
“Your job is to tell me what’s happening… Style points come from what happens in the game but you’re not trying to throw out quips … not trying to be the funny guy but calling the game.”
And simply — be yourself.
“Be yourself. Be prepared. That’s all you can do.”
Keith said some of his cadence was learned from Ward. Phrasing and using as few words as possible to help the listener visualize the action were influenced by Ward.
But he never tried to sound like him — as there is only one John Ward.
“I refer to him constantly because he’s the primary influence on me,” Keith added.
He went on to note that there are a couple things he does on occasion just to honor the legendary UT play-by-play voice.
“Everybody who ever calls a game at UT is going to be compared to him… and that’s OK.
“He’s the reason I do this.”