Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – After an illustrious career spanning 30 years as the play-by-play announcer for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bill Hillgrove has announced his retirement. Hillgrove, who was handpicked for the job by late owner Dan Rooney, will be stepping away from his role with the Steelers but will continue to call University of Pittsburgh basketball and football games.
Hillgrove’s journey began in 1994 when he took over as the play-by-play announcer for the Pittsburgh Steelers, succeeding Jack Fleming. Despite facing a significant pay cut, Hillgrove embraced the opportunity to fulfill his dream of being a full-time play-by-play announcer in the NFL. His devotion to the Steelers lasted three decades, during which he called four Super Bowls, witnessing championship wins and numerous playoff appearances.
Aside from his work with the Steelers, Hillgrove has also been the voice of the University of Pittsburgh basketball and football teams for over five decades, demonstrating his versatility and passion for sports broadcasting. His dedication to both the NFL and college football has solidified his legacy as a respected figure in the sports broadcasting industry.
Throughout his career, Hillgrove’s storytelling abilities have captivated audiences, providing colorful anecdotes and memorable accounts of his experiences covering the Steelers and Panthers. His distinctive “INTERCEPTED!” call during the 2008 AFC Championship Game stands out as one of his most iconic moments, encapsulating the excitement of Troy Polamalu’s game-changing interception.
A native of Pittsburgh, Hillgrove’s connection to the city runs deep, having grown up in the Garfield section and graduated from Central Catholic and Duquesne University. Over the years, he has received numerous accolades for his broadcasting excellence, including the Chris Schenkel Award and the Woody Durham Voice of College Sports Award.
As Hillgrove embarks on a new chapter in his life, his contributions to sports broadcasting in Pittsburgh leave a lasting impact on fans and the community. His talent, dedication, and storytelling prowess have left an indelible mark on the sports world, earning him a place among the greats in the industry.