j) Dennis Fithian

Dennis Fithian is among the most versatile and experienced sports broadcasters on Detroit’s airwaves. Since 1994, Dennis has covered all of the major professional sports teams in Detroit, as well as major college athletic programs. Dennis’ significant experience allows him to perform a broad array of broadcast roles, including hosting his own programs, serving as a beat reporter for specific teams and serving in-studio as a pre-game, post-game, and update correspondent.

Dennis has developed a loyal following throughout his broadcast career through his “down to Earth” approach that appeals to true sports fans who value substance over style.

Prior to joining 97.1 FM The Ticket, Dennis had a 12-year career in Ann Arbor where he became one of the most recognizable voices on sports talk radio and a recognizable face at an array of University of Michigan sports venues. In Ann Arbor, Dennis led his own afternoon drive-time radio program, Sportsbeat, as well as hosting pre-game and post-game programs for University of Michigan football and conducting weekly coaches shows for the U-M football, men’s basketball, and women’s basketball teams. Dennis also became the play-by-play voice for U-M women’s basketball and for select baseball and softball games. In Ann Arbor, Dennis was known for being a true fan (not only covering the sports he talked about on the radio but also attending games in person) and drawing attention to non-revenue sports such as gymnastics, wrestling, field hockey, and track.

Prior to hosting his own program, Dennis also co-hosted a morning show and produced a variety of the station’s programs. Dennis also was a contributor for The Wolverine, a weekly sports newspaper covering U-M sports.

Dennis’ professional and personal sports highlights include being in the locker room following the Tigers’ victory at Comerica Park in the American League Championship Series in 2006, covering Justin Verlander’s no-hitter in Comerica Park in 2007, covering the U-M Rose Bowl in Pasadena in 2004, attending his first baseball game in Yankee Stadium, and watching the U.S. national team play in the world rugby championships in England.

One of the most humorous moments in Dennis’ career occurred when ESPN’s Dick Vitale, having listened to Dennis’ impression of the famous college basketball announcer on the radio, called (un-planned) into Dennis’ program as “Richard from Sarasota” to challenge Dennis’ impression and engage in a bit of fun and games.

Throughout his career, Dennis has taken great pride in lining up guests and special interviews that bring unique and interesting perspectives to his listening audience. Dennis’ notable interviews have included the late, Pulitzer-Prize winning journalist David Halberstam, Hall of Famer George Kell, U-M icon Bo Schembechler, and the actress Jane Seymour. Dennis is also the first and only sports broadcaster to be granted permission by coach Lloyd Carr to broadcast live from a private Michigan Football spring practice.

Prior to starting his professional broadcast career, Dennis graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Telecommunications from Eastern Michigan University. While at EMU, Dennis hosted a sports talk program on campus radio station WQBR and wrote for the school’s newspaper, the Eastern Echo. Dennis also attended university for two years in England. While in England, Dennis became a fan of rugby and played two years of “rugby union.” Dennis’ college career began at Schoolcraft College where he sat on the bench/played college basketball for one year.

A life-long resident and fan of Southeastern Michigan sports, Dennis was born in Detroit and graduated from Livonia Franklin High School. Dennis still enjoys playing basketball, poker, pool, darts, tennis, golf, reading and attending tailgates.