Thursday, 07 May 2026

Chris Schenkel

Contest: The US Athletic Hall of Fame - Commentators 2026
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Sport(s): Football, Basketball, Boxing, Golf, Tennis, Horse Racing, Olympics & Bowling
Statistics & Accolades: National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame
Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame
American Sportscasters Association Hall of Fame
Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award
PBA Hall of Fame
USBC Hall of Fame
Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award
The smooth, baritone voice of Chris Schenkel was also among the most versatile in the sports world in the second half of the 20th century.

While he covered a multitude of sports, Schenkel was known mostly for football and bowling. Hired by DuMont in 1952, Schenkel was the network's lead sports executive. When DuMont faltered, he joined CBS, covering its gamut of sports, which included the NFL Championship Game, but it was his move to ABC in 1965 that cemented his legacy.

Schenkel continued his diverse range of sports, but added the Professional Bowlers Tour, and at its apex from the late 60s to early 80s, Schenkel was its voice.

We are proud to nominate Chris Schenkel for the United States Athletic Hall of Fame.