Every town has its share of favorite sports speakers. Denver has John Elway. Dallas has Roger Staubach. But few cities can boast the number of well-known sports speakers as St. Louis. Let’s take a look at a few of my favorites…
Ozzie Smith…Affectionately known as “The Wizard” for his magical plays at shortstop, Ozzie Smith is considered one of the top shortstops of all-time. During his 19 years in the Majors, Smith was a 15-time All Star and 13-time Gold Glove winner. He helped lead the Cardinals to the 1982 World Series title and was inducted in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2002.
Lou Brock…Best known for his base-stealing prowess, Lou Brock was one of baseball’s most exciting players during his era. Brock helped lead the Cardinals to National League pennants in 1964, 1967 and 1968 and to World Series championships in 1964 and 1967, a year in which he also became the first player to steal 50 bases and hit 20 home runs in the same season. Brock’s 938 stolen bases rank only second to Rickey Henderson’s 1,406 on the all-time list.
Bob Gibson…Few pitchers instilled fear in opposing hitters like Bob Gibson. Ask any old-timer which pitcher he feared most and chances are good that Gibson will be among the ones mentioned. In 17 seasons with the Cardinals, Gibson went 251-174 with a 2.91 ERA. As impressive as those numbers are, arguably his most impressive feat occurred in 1969 when he threw 28 complete games, something unheard of in today’s game.
Kurt Warner…Few football players can boast a rags to riches story like Kurt Warner, who went from stocking shelves at a grocery store to Arena League quarterback to Super Bowl champion. Warner was a five-time All-Pro, was named AP NFL MVP in 1999 and 2001 and was named mvp of Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000 after leading the Rams to a 23-16 victory over the Tennessee Titans.
Others notable sports speakers who either reside in St. Louis or maintain close ties include sportscasters Bob Costas and Joe Buck, baseball Hall of Famer Whitey Herzog and catcher Mike Matheny and football players DeMarco Farr and Marshall Faulk.
Published by PFP Sports and Celebrity Talent Agency top booking agent for sports speakers, athlete appearances and endorsements.
