When the IAHS Indians take the field on Friday nights, one voice fans know well is Sam Farris.
As the play-by-play announcer on 98.5 FM, Farris also works with Mooreville High School and Itawamba Community College athletics. His booming voice and signature calls have become part of the game-day experience across northeast Mississippi. We caught up with Sam to hear about his journey into broadcasting and what makes local sports so special.
How did you get into broadcasting?
“In high school the PA guy didn’t show up for a softball game. I was keeping stats, so they handed me the mic. I was terrible at first, but I stuck with it. Over time I found my announcer voice.”
Who were your influences growing up?
“A mix of real and fictional voices. Bob Uecker in Major League. Glen Waddle with his ‘First down Ole Miss.’ Even cartoon voices like Hubie Mouse helped me practice.”
Was broadcasting always your dream job?
“Not really. But when I look back, the signs were there. I even got to sit in on a Memphis Redbirds broadcast as part of a St. Jude patient experience years earlier.”
How do you prepare for a game?
“Talking to coaches. Research. Looking for storylines. I want to give fans more than just the score.”
Got a pre-game ritual?
“Coffee. And singing the National Anthem in the shower. It loosens my voice and prepares me in case I have to sing it at the game.”
How would you describe your broadcasting style?
“Professional with a touch of entertainment. Just the facts, but with energy when the moment calls for it.”
Do you have a signature call?
“Yes. For football it’s ‘FIRST DOWN I C C.’ For baseball home runs I go with ‘Put it on the board and touch ’em all.’”
Ever broadcast from a crazy or unusual location?
“One time I called a game from the roof of a concession stand in New Albany. I had to climb out of a bus window to get up there.”
How do you handle calling games where one team is overmatched?
“I don’t draw attention to the gap. I try to highlight the positives so fans know their team’s effort is respected.”
What role does a local broadcaster play in the community?
“You’re the lifeline. The connection for people who can’t be there. You guide them through the action.”
Do you get recognized or contacted by fans?
“All the time. People say they read my texts in my announcer voice. Kids want me to say their names like pros. A preacher even told me once that the only two voices fit for a holy play were Morgan Freeman and Sam Farris.”
One call or game you’ll never forget?
“Mooreville against East Webster in 2023. We came back from down 27-6 in the fourth. Took the lead with eight seconds left. Then an onside kick was returned for a touchdown. We lost. I’ll never forget calling that one.”
Go-to postgame meal?
“Waffle House. The All-Star plate. Hash browns extra crispy. Coffee strong.”
Ever lost your voice or had tech fail during a call?
“I’ve never fully lost my voice, but I’ve had plenty of mic and equipment failures. You just roll with it.”
What do you hope people remember about your broadcasts?
“That I cared. That I gave my heart to the job and the teams. That I always did it the right way and for the love of the game.”
Advice for aspiring broadcasters?
“Just start. Don’t wait until you’re perfect. You’ll mess up, but keep going. To you it’s just another step. To others it looks like magic.”
Sam’s voice has become part of Thursday and Friday nights in Northeast Mississippi. Fans can hear his calls on 98.5 FM and with Itawamba Community College athletics.
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