VOICE OF VICTORY: WVU Iconic Broadcaster Tony Caridi Clinches Dual ESPN Awards for Excellence in Sports Broadcasting —From the heart of Mountaineer Nation to the pinnacle of national recognition, Tony Caridi proves why his voice is unforgettable..

VOICE OF VICTORY: WVU Iconic Broadcaster Tony Caridi Clinches Dual ESPN Awards for Excellence in Sports Broadcasting
From the heart of Mountaineer Nation to the pinnacle of national recognition, Tony Caridi has long been the voice that defines West Virginia University athletics. Now, the voice that has echoed through generations of Mountaineer fans has earned its most resounding accolade yet. Caridi has been honored with two prestigious ESPN Awards for Excellence in Sports Broadcasting, cementing his legacy as one of the most iconic figures in collegiate sports media.
Caridi, who has served as the lead play-by-play broadcaster for WVU since 1997, is synonymous with Mountaineer football and basketball. Whether narrating the thrill of a last-second buzzer-beater or the grit of a hard-fought gridiron battle, his voice is not just heard—it’s felt. It’s the voice fans turn to in moments of triumph and heartbreak alike, a constant thread through decades of Mountaineer history.
The dual honors from ESPN—Outstanding College Sports Broadcaster and Best Live Sports Call—are a testament to Caridi’s enduring excellence, versatility, and emotional connection with his audience. The Outstanding College Sports Broadcaster award recognizes Caridi’s lifetime contributions and consistent quality over the years. Meanwhile, the Best Live Sports Call award was given for his electric narration of WVU’s stunning upset over a top-10 opponent this past season—a call that instantly went viral and captured the soul of West Virginia sports.
“Tony’s ability to bring the energy of the game to life is unmatched,” said an ESPN spokesperson. “He’s more than a broadcaster—he’s a storyteller, a historian, and a steward of WVU’s athletic spirit.”
Caridi’s unique blend of professionalism and passion has made him a beloved figure beyond Morgantown. While he’s deeply rooted in West Virginia, his impact reaches a national audience. His style is distinguished by its clarity, emotion, and an unwavering respect for the athletes and fans he represents. For Caridi, every call is more than just a job—it’s a tribute to the state and the people who call it home.
In accepting the awards, Caridi remained characteristically humble. “I’ve always just tried to do right by West Virginia,” he said. “To be recognized by ESPN, and to know that our stories resonate on a national level, is incredibly humbling. This is as much an honor for Mountaineer Nation as it is for me.”
With these honors, Caridi joins a rarefied group of broadcasters who have left an indelible mark on college sports. Yet for him, the true victory lies not in trophies, but in the shared moments of joy, heartbreak, and pride that come with every Mountaineer game. His voice may now be nationally celebrated, but it will always belong to West Virginia.
Tony Caridi’s journey—from a regional treasure to a national icon—is a reminder that authenticity, passion, and excellence still matter. And as long as there are stories to tell in Morgantown, you can be sure that the Voice of the Mountaineers will be there to tell them.