NEW YORK – LSU’s long-time “Voice of the Tigers” Jim Hawthorne said Tuesday morning about listening to LSU games as a child with no idea he would spend 30-plus years calling Tiger football games.
Hawthorne spoke at the press conference for award winners that would be honored Tuesday evening at the 58th-annual National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame Banquet at the Waldorf-Astoria.
Hawthorne will receive the Chris Schenkel Award which recognizes individuals who have had long, distinguished careers broadcasting college football with direct ties to a specific university.
“As a youngster growing up in the state of Louisiana back in the 1950s, listening to LSU football on the radio every Saturday night was one of the highlights of the week for me,” Hawthorne said. “I never had any idea that I would be fortunate to be the Voice of the Tigers.
“I can say the first football game I broadcast for LSU was in 1984 and prior to a little bump in the road this year I was able to do 387 consecutive games without missing a game. There have been so many great highlights in that period of time, including the opportunity to cover three national championship (games). I have been exceptionally fortunate to represent LSU, the state of Louisiana and of course, the Southeastern Conference in doing that. I’m very honored and humbled to be here.”
Moderator Chris Cotter of ESPN asked Jim about staying on his toes in case LSU Coach Les Miles pulled one of his fake field goals or “trick plays.”
“That’s what makes it fun,” said Hawthorne. “You have to be able to cover those spontaneous moments. I think that is what makes radio broadcasting a challenge and part of the reason I have enjoyed it so much.”