Thursday, 16 April 2026

Myron Cope

Contest: The US Athletic Hall of Fame - Commentators 2026
Embed from Getty Images
Sport(s): Football
Statistics & Accolades: Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame
National Radio Hall of Fame
Myron Cope was an excellent journalist, but it was his work as the voice of the Pittsburgh Steelers where he became interwoven into the fabric of the city of Pittsburgh.

From 1970 to 2005, Steelers fans heard Cope's voice, which, while nasally and high-pitched, had a Pittsburgh flair that cut deep with the Western Pennsylvania faithful. Developing his own signature catchphrases (“Yoi” and “Okel Dokel”), Cope also coined many nicknames for many Steelers stars, but perhaps his greatest cultural accomplishment was his involvement in the formation of the “Terrible Towel”.

In 1975, Cope encouraged fans to wave a yellow towel during games, and it rapidly morphed into one of the most well-known symbols of any sports team. Cope, who owned (and later sold the rights to a local school that helped people with disabilities), raised millions.

Cope was the voice of five Steelers’ Super Bowls, and he made history as the first football announcer to enter the National Radio Hall of Fame.

We are proud to nominate Myron Cope for the United States Athletic Hall of Fame.