Bob Kesling: The Legendary Voice of the Tennessee Vols
As Bob Kesling looks toward retirement, the iconic voice of the Tennessee Vols reflects on a remarkable 50-year career, offering listeners a glimpse into his often serendipitous sports broadcasting journey. Kesling’s legacy was created with a mix of good fortune and gumption, and he offers listeners valuable life lessons from a legacy rooted in positive thinking, focus on community service, and strong mentorship.
The Journey: From Walk-On Fullback to Broadcast Icon
Growing up in Dayton, Ohio, his path to the University of Tennessee (UT) started with a chance visit arranged by a friend’s father, who knew the basketball coach, Ray Mears, who had coached at Wittenberg University in Springfield. Bob decided to wander down to the football department for some information about joining the team as a walk-on and found himself speaking directly with the head coach, Bill Battle. He became a walk-on freshman fullback for the UT football team in 1972, and although his playing time was short, the connections he made there laid the groundwork for what became a 50-year broadcasting career.
Bob reflects that he’s never formally applied for a job, and instead has gotten them based on merit, fortuitous timing, and a positive attitude. When he was a sophomore studying public relations, he went to a Knoxville Sox baseball game with some friends, and because they sat in the wrong section, wound up talking to the owner of the team - and walked away with a summer job as Assistant General Manager for the team. While there, he decided to step up the team’s marketing efforts, submitting short audio spots to local news and radio stations, and found himself with another job, this time at the local radio station, WIVK. From there, he transitioned into TV broadcasting with WBIR-TV and Jefferson-Pilot Sports, eventually settling back in with the Vol Network in 1999.
Unforgettable Tennessee Vols Moments
Kesling’s voice has narrated Tennessee sports moments for generations. From the Vols' Sugar Bowl triumph in 1985 to thrilling basketball victories, his calls have become synonymous with the passion and resilience of Tennessee athletics. His ability to bring games to life made him a fixture in the lives of fans across the state and beyond.
His contributions extend beyond play-by-play. As the host of shows like Vol Calls and the Big Orange Hotline, Kesling has provided fans with a deeper connection to their favorite teams and athletes.
Beyond the booth, Kesling has dedicated himself to mentoring others in the industry. He has helped shape the careers of prominent broadcasters like Charles Davis and Courtney Lyle, emphasizing the importance of lifting others in an industry that gave him so much.
Life After Broadcasting and Giving Back
Kesling’s success has always been grounded in the support of his family. Married to his high school sweetheart, Tami, since 1978, Kesling looks forward to spending more time with her, their children, and five grandchildren in retirement. Kesling notes that he plans to travel, including a trip to Normandy and spring training sessions with the Cincinnati Reds.
Kesling’s work with organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters also highlights his commitment to community. His mentee, William Large, became a part of his family over the last decade, and is now paying it forward as a Navy recruiter and helping others to reach their highest potential through strong mentorship himself. In addition, Kesling’s diagnosis with T Cell Lymphoma several years ago has inspired him to become active in the Leukemia and Lymphoma society.
A Legacy Beyond the Mic
Mr. Kesling’s impact on Tennessee Athletics and his community is undeniable. With a career spanning five decades, his voice has become a cherished part of countless lives. Kesling leaves behind not just a legacy of memorable calls, but also a model of mentorship, service, and passion for future generations. This episode of Southern Character brings it all together and celebrates Bob’s enduring legacy of integrity, hustle, and positivity.