Hometown Calls: Breck Riley

When the Kosciusko Whippets take the field on Friday nights, one voice guiding listeners through the action is Breck Riley.

As the play-by-play announcer on WLIN-FM Breezy 103.7, Breck brings energy and a love for local sports to every broadcast. Fans can catch his calls on Breezy 103.7 FM, the Breezy 103 app, breezynews.com, and on YouTube with Boswell Media Sports. He also serves as part of the Holmes Community College Radio Network. We caught up with Breck to hear about his journey into broadcasting and what makes local radio so special.

How did you get into broadcasting?

“I always loved sports and radio. It started with high school football coverage, and I just kept chasing opportunities.”

Who were your influences growing up?

“I listened to a lot of baseball broadcasters. Guys like Vin Scully and Skip Carey showed me how much storytelling can matter.”

Was broadcasting always your dream job?

“Yes. I studied communications with the goal of being in radio and sports in some way.”

How do you prepare for a game?

“Talking to coaches, keeping up with stats, and making sure I’ve got solid background on the players.”

Got a pre-game ritual?

“Nothing too wild. I just like to be set up early and have time to settle in.”

How would you describe your broadcasting style?

“Energetic and conversational. I want people to feel like they’re sitting next to me in the stands.”

Do you have a signature call?

“I try to let the moment create its own energy, but I’ve been known to stretch out a ‘Touchdown Whippets!’ when the timing feels right.”

Do you change your tone depending on the team or moment?

“I stay authentic, but I always want to match the importance of the play.”

What’s the hardest part about calling games at this level?

“Getting rosters and pronunciations right can be tough. Small details matter.”

Ever broadcast from a crazy or unusual location?

“We’ve had setups in some pretty tight press boxes and even outdoors in the elements. You make it work.”

How do you handle calling games where one team is overmatched or when your alma mater is playing?

“You focus on telling the story of the game and the effort from both sides.”

What role do you think a local broadcaster plays in a small community?

“We’re the connection for fans who can’t be there in person. It’s about more than the score, it’s about community pride.”

Do you get recognized or contacted by fans?

“All the time. That’s the great part of small-town sports, people appreciate what you do.

Most heartfelt feedback you’ve received?

“I’ve had families tell me that listening to the games made them feel closer to their kids or grandkids who were playing.”

Go-to postgame meal?

“Whatever’s open on the way home. Usually fast food or a late-night snack.”

Ever lost your voice or had tech fail during a call? What did you do?

“Tech problems happen. You just stay calm and roll with it until you’re back on the air.”

One call or game you’ll never forget?

“The Whippets’ playoff run a couple of years back was special. The atmosphere and the community support made it unforgettable.”

What do you hope people remember about your broadcasts?

“That I cared about the kids and gave everything I had to make the game come alive.”

Advice for aspiring broadcasters, especially at the small-school level?

“Take every opportunity. Get in front of a mic, even if it’s not glamorous at first. Experience is everything.”

Breck’s voice brings Friday nights to life for the Kosciusko community. You can hear his broadcasts on Breezy 103.7 FM, the Breezy 103 app, breezynews.com, or on YouTube with Boswell Media Sports.

Be sure to check out his webpage BreckRiley.com and his YouTube channel.