Bob Ley Comes Home To WSOU
• Did you know that legendary sportscaster Bob Ley, one of the original ESPN SportsCenter anchors, learned his craft back in the day at Seton Hall University’s WSOU 89.5 FM? It’s true.
Ley’s involvement with WSOU began back in 1972, as seen here in this pre-color photo. During his time at the student-run station, Ley served as PD, Sports Director and engineer, among other duties, and did play-by-play and color commentary for basketball and baseball games. After graduating in 1976, Ley’s experiences at WSOU led to several broadcasting jobs in New York and New Jersey, including a stint as the P.A. announcer for the New York Cosmos soccer team, before joining ESPN as a SportsCenteranchor in 1979. In June of last year, Ley announced his retirement from ESPN, capping a 40-year career with the network. Throughout the years, Ley regularly spoke with current Seton Hall students, presented workshops and master classes, and mentored several members of the WSOU sports staff.
To celebrate Ley’s remarkable broadcasting career, WSOU will hold a reception in his honor this Sunday, Feb. 23 at the Prudential Center. In addition to reminiscing with alumni and current students, Ley (pictured, right with co-legend Bob Costas during an appearance at Seton Hall on November 11, 2019), will reprise his role as a WSOU sportscaster during part of the Seton Hall vs. St. John’s men’s basketball broadcast on Sunday afternoon. Ley’s career achievements and Seton Hall roots will be recognized during a pre-game on-court ceremony.
“Bob speaks often about the critical role WSOU played in launching his career and through the decades he has taken the time to mentor and encourage generations of students who were following in his footsteps at WSOU,” said WSOU GM Mark Maben. “With Bob entering retirement, we felt it was important for the station to honor him for both his extraordinary career and all that he has done for the station and the campus community.” [Photo Credits: Seton Hall University Archives]
