Harry Kalas was more than the voice of the Philadelphia Phillies. He was the voice of Philadelphia and generations of sports fans across the region.
With the most recognizable voice in the city, no one could deny the excitement, which poured from his veins into your own each game, each play. The pulse of that ballpark lived in Kalas for 38 years.
"I wouldn't say I'm a cheerleader...but I think you could tell in the excitement of my voice, I want the Phillies to win every day come to this ballpark," he told WHYY in a previous interview.
Before Monday's game, before his death in Washington, D.C., we're sure he was pulling strong for the Phils as he always did.
As Phillies fans, we can only be grateful he called the winning game of the 2008 World Series-- a call, which will stick with us all through each baseball season. Kalas was the man, the legend, to do it.
But, he would never call himself a legend. "I don't know if i would gain legendary status. I'm just honored to have been here this many years," he told WHYY.
We were honored to have you Harry. We grew up with you, we cheered on the Phils with you and you will always be the voice of Philadelphia.
Sports
In partnership with NBC Sports Philadelphia
Harry Kalas on being called a legend on WHYY's "Hometown Legends" show.
Harry Kalas on the highlights from his career at Veterans Stadium on WHYY's "Hometown Legends" show.
Harry Kalas' advice to aspiring sports announcers on WHYY's "Hometown Legends" show.
Harry Kalas on choosing his career on WHYY's "Hometown Legends" show.
