ATLANTA — Larry Munson, the legendary voice of University of Georgia football, suddenly retired recently.
Munson has been the play-by-play announcer for the Bulldogs since 1966.
 CURTIS COMPTON/Cox News Service Larry Munson began calling play-by-play for Georgia football games on radio in 1966. For a larger, high resolution image, click HERE |
"I can't express enough my deep feelings toward the Georgia football fans," said Munson, 85. "They have been so friendly especially during this most recent period of time. I feel I owe them so much more than I can give. I'll remember all the great times with the Dogs and have the fondest wishes and good luck toward them all."
"Larry made the decision over the weekend after consultation with his family, doctor, and close friends," said Michael Munson, Larry's son. Munson underwent brain surgery for a blood clot in April.
Munson has been calling only home games for past two seasons. His last game was the Georgia game against Central Michigan on Sept. 6. Georgia won, 56-17.
"I want to thank Larry Munson on behalf of this great university for 42 dedicated years of delivering the Georgia Bulldogs to fans on fall Saturdays around the world," UGA Director of Athletics Damon Evans said in a press release announcing Munson's retirement. "I truly appreciate his return at the start of this season from surgery to give us all another opportunity to hear him describe the tradition and pageantry of Georgia football as only he could do it.
"This is a day that we all knew would come for the Bulldog Nation, Larry Munson is and will always be a part of what is great about being a Georgia Bulldog."
Added UGA President Dr. Michael F. Adams, also in the press release: "Larry Munson has given the bulk of his professional life in the service of the Bulldog Nation and we thank him for it. He has been a unifying element and rallying point for many years. We are grateful for his many contributions and wish for him improved health and many good times to come."
Chip Towers writes for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. E-mail: ctowers AT ajc.com.
