In a stunning press release, long time Texas A&M football radio broadcaster Dave South announced his intention to step down following the 2017 season.
A fan favorite, the booming voice of Dave South defines Aggie athletics for many including myself. Hearing of South’s decision to leave the booth is tough to swallow. So many iconic moments happened for the Aggies with South’s strong voice on the call.
There is a highlight video played during the pre-game festivities at each Aggie home game. That video spans decades of Texas A&M football history, but no matter what new history is made, there are always a few plays that stand the test of time.
It was South on the call for the Aggies’ 1998 Big 12 Championship over the Kansas State Wildcats. “He got it a touchdown” gives every Aggie fan chills to this day. When Texas A&M went into Tuscaloosa and took down Alabama in 2012, South’s voice rang over the most improbable fumble-turned-touchdown in school history. Both of those highlights are played before just about every home game at Kyle Field.
In a release distributed by the university, South announced that this would be his final season calling Aggie football games:
"After discussions that started last August with Texas A&M Ventures and my wife Leanne, I have decided that the 2017 Texas A&M football season and the 2017-18 men’s basketball season will be my last with both teams. I will continue doing play-by-play for the Aggie baseball team on a year-by-year basis."
He also shared a heartfelt good-bye to everyone that made his broadcast experience special:
"To the coaches, athletes, staff and athletic directors, our experiences together over these many years have created a lifetime of wonderful memories. If memories were memorabilia, there wouldn’t be a room big enough to hold my collection. To the Aggies and radio listeners who have been so gracious and kind for these many years, thank you for your words, texts, emails, and letters. I am humbled by your thoughtful generosity."
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Thank you Dave South, for encapsulating every major moment in Texas A&M history over the last few decades. You will be missed by Aggies everywhere. Hopefully the 2017 Texas A&M football team can send you out on a high note. Thanks and Gig’em.