He was on air for 3 decades.
Mike Patrick, a longtime ESPN broadcaster whose voice became a mainstay in American sports coverage, has passed away at 80. His death was confirmed on Tuesday by both the City of Clarksburg, West Virginia, and his doctor, who stated he died of natural causes on Sunday.
Patrick’s career at ESPN spanned more than three decades, beginning in 1982. He gained widespread recognition in 1987 when he was named the lead announcer for Sunday Night Football, a position he held until 2005. Over those 18 years, he shared the broadcast booth with notable names like Joe Theismann and Paul Maguire, becoming one of the most familiar voices in football coverage.
In addition to his NFL work, Patrick was a prominent figure in college sports. He regularly called Thursday Night Football and Saturday Night Football on ESPN, making him a consistent presence during the fall football season. His contributions extended to college basketball as well, especially in covering the NCAA Women’s Final Four from 1996 to 2009, helping to elevate the visibility of women’s collegiate athletics.
After a storied run, Patrick retired in 2018, expressing gratitude for a career that aligned perfectly with his passions. He reflected on the joy of working with talented colleagues and doing what he loved for so many years. His versatility across different sports helped define ESPN’s coverage through several decades.
The City of Clarksburg honored his legacy in a public statement, recognizing his national impact and connection to the local community. Further details about funeral or memorial services have not been shared. Patrick is remembered by his family, peers, and countless fans as one of the most influential voices in sports broadcasting history.
