“Voice of the Vols” Bob Kesling Retiring This Year

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Bob Kesling raises his left hand in a wave to a crowd in the arena. Next to him is a framed orange basketball jersey with his last name Kesling and the number 26.

Bob Kesling (’77) has served as the legendary “Voice of the Vols” for 26 years. He started out working for former “Voice of the Vols” John Ward. Kesling went on to serve as the radio voice for Lady Vols basketball from 1978 to 1999, announcing Pat Summitt’s first six national championships. He was the sports director for two different stations for several years until 1999, when he was named lead announcer for Vol Radio Network. During that time Kesling was also an announcer for Jefferson-Pilot’s telecast of SEC football and basketball. The Volunteer community is sad to see him leave, but excited for Kesling’s next steps as he becomes a fulltime granddad. 

“The past 26 years have been rewarding, challenging, and fun on the Vol Network,” Kesling says, “I’m grateful to the University of Tennessee for preparing me, and to all the people across the state who listened all the years.” 

Join Kesling at the 2025 Retirees Spring Luncheon!