When the Ohio High School Athletic Association Boys State Basketball Championships begin on Friday, behind the microphone calling the games on 103.1 WNDH will be one of the longest-running sports broadcasters in the country, Dave Kleck. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Kleck has become synonymous with high school basketball, bringing the excitement and drama of the game to countless listeners.
A Storied Career
Dave Kleck estimates he has called around 4,500 high school basketball games over the years. His dedication to the sport and his ability to capture the essence of each game have made him a beloved figure in the community. Among these games, Kleck has had the honor of calling approximately 180 state championship games, each one a testament to his passion and expertise.
Memorable Moments
When asked about the most memorable state championship games he has called, Kleck's eyes light up as he recalls several unforgettable moments. "I have to put several on this list," he says. "The two local teams from my home county that won boys championships: Patrick Henry boys knocked off powerhouse Cleveland St. Joe in 1997, and Holgate beat defending state champ Marion Local for the 2004 boys title. And then there was 1985, Jackson Center sub off the bench, Jeff Teeters has the ball in his hands with 1 second to go, and hits a half-court shot to give his team the state title. That was his only points of the tournament!"
Kleck’s recall and fondness of the games was confirmed by Keith Kennedy, Regional Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia, the parent company of WNDH-FM. “The first time I met Dave about 15 years ago, I mentioned that Patrick Henry played my alma mater in the state championship in 1992. Dave shot up from his chair, left the room and returned about two minutes later with four cassette tapes and his notes of the game”. Kennedy added “The notes weren’t necessary; he was able to name players and stats from both Patrick Henry and Orrville as if the game had been played the day before”.
The Heart of the Game
For Kleck, broadcasting these games is more than just a job; it's a celebration of the purity of the sport. "It's the pureness of the sports," he explains. "These kids are not doing it for NIL money. They play their hearts out for their teammates, their coaches, their families, and their communities." This genuine passion and dedication are what make high school basketball so special and what drives Kleck to continue his work year after year.
It's not only his heart into the games. "I couldn’t have the fun of calling these great games for decades without the support of my wife LouAnn" added Kleck. "She has allowed me the opportunity to become a companion for those who couldn't attend but could listen on the radio each of those 4,500 nights".
As Dave Kleck prepares to broadcast the state basketball championships this weekend, on 103.1 WNDH, we celebrate his remarkable career and the countless memories he has created for fans and players alike. His voice has become a staple of high school basketball, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
All seven divisions of the Boys basketball Championships will air on 103.1 WNDH. Listen: 103.1 WNDH