Tuscaloosa, AL – Legendary broadcaster Eli Gold, the iconic voice of Alabama Crimson Tide football, has etched his name further into the annals of broadcasting history, winning not one, but two prestigious awards: an ESPN National Award for Excellence in Sports Broadcasting and the coveted “Best Play-by-Play Announcer” honor from the National Sports Media Association (NSMA).
Gold, whose voice has become synonymous with Alabama football over the past three decades, was celebrated at ceremonies in New York and North Carolina, respectively. The dual honors recognize not just his longevity in the booth, but his distinctive style, dedication to the craft, and unwavering passion for college football.
“I’m humbled and truly honored to receive these awards,” Gold said during his acceptance speech at the NSMA gala. “To be recognized by both my peers and fans means more than I can put into words. I’ve had the privilege of calling some of the greatest moments in college football history, and every game still feels like the first.”
Gold’s career spans more than 40 years, with the last 35 spent as the voice of the Crimson Tide. He began his journey in sports broadcasting in the 1970s, calling hockey games before transitioning to football, where his rich baritone and expert storytelling found a lasting home. Since joining the Alabama broadcast team in 1988, Gold has become a Saturday staple for generations of fans, his voice providing the soundtrack to the Tide’s many national championship runs under coaches like Gene Stallings, Mike Shula, and, most notably, Nick Saban.
The ESPN National Award for Excellence in Sports Broadcasting is given annually to a broadcaster who exemplifies outstanding skill, integrity, and impact on the sports world. Gold’s work was cited as “a masterclass in clarity, emotion, and professionalism.” His colleagues praised his preparation, attention to detail, and uncanny ability to turn even routine plays into memorable moments.
The NSMA’s “Best Play-by-Play Announcer” award, meanwhile, is voted on by fellow sports media professionals across the country. It honors the top talent in live game calling, and this year, voters overwhelmingly pointed to Gold’s call of Alabama’s thrilling overtime win against Auburn as a standout moment. His dramatic narration of the game-winning touchdown was replayed countless times on social media and sports networks, becoming an instant classic.
Despite his recent battle with health issues that briefly sidelined him from the broadcast booth, Gold returned stronger than ever this past season. His resilience and passion have further endeared him to fans and colleagues alike. Many in the Alabama community see him not just as a broadcaster, but as an essential part of the Crimson Tide tradition.
University of Alabama Athletics Director Greg Byrne congratulated Gold, saying, “Eli is more than just the voice of Alabama football – he’s part of the family. These awards are a testament to his incredible talent, commitment, and love for the game. We couldn’t be prouder.”
As Gold continues to inspire and entertain with each broadcast, these awards serve as a fitting tribute to a man whose voice has become a treasured part of college football lore.
