Nov. 3, 2010
Read: My Carolina Alumnia Association – “Bob Fulton, Voice of the Gamecocks for 43 Years”
Bob Fulton, legendary voice of the South Carolina Gamecocks, died today at his home in Lexington, S.C. at the age of 89.
Fulton retired in 1995 after 43 years as the radio voice of the Gamecocks, announcing thousands of Carolina football, basketball and baseball games during that time. His tenure with the Gamecocks was the fourth-longest among NCAA Division I broadcasters with one school at the time of his retirement.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Bob Fulton,” said South Carolina Athletics Director Eric Hyman. “Bob left an indelible mark on thousands of fans who listened to his distinctive voice describing Gamecock football, basketball and baseball for years and years. A virtual walking encyclopedia of Gamecock Athletics, Bob had the unique ability to recall events and tell a story of the memorable moments in Carolina history. He will always be regarded by the Gamecock Nation as “The Voice.”
Fulton was an eight-time selection as the state of South Carolina’s “Sportscaster of the Year.” In 1990 he became the first non-coach or athlete to be inducted into the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame and in 1993 was inducted into the University of South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame. In 1994 he received the state’s highest award, The Order of the Palmetto, from Governor Carroll Campbell.
“It is the passing of a legend,” said head baseball coach Ray Tanner. “I am grateful for the time I spent with him, talking baseball and hearing stories of Carolina past. Bob Fulton is synonymous with Gamecock Athletics and our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time. He will always be the Voice of the Gamecocks.”
“When you hear Bob Fulton’s name – you think Gamecocks,” said longtime Carolina men’s soccer coach Mark Berson. “Bob’s resonant tones and descriptions of Gamecock athletic events have been Gamecock Nation’s window to the world for a generation. His name is truly one and the same with the University of South Carolina. We have lost one of our truly great ones.”
Fulton, a native of Ridley Park, Pa., is survived by two daughters, Nancy and Robin, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, according to The State newspaper.
