WTVC sports director Darrell Patterson has announced he will retire after nearly 40 years with the Chattanooga,TN, ABC affiliate.
“Darrell’s presentation has always been about more than just scores and highlights,” WTVC news director Tom Henderson said in a statement. “He is a talented and enthusiastic sports storyteller.”
Patterson started at WTVC in 1974 as a part-timer and credits his longevity to advice he got early in his career to treat the camera as a real person.
“Since being given that advice,” said Patterson. “I’ve always imagined the camera as my younger brother, Panky, in Athens. I imagine myself talking to him, figuring if he can understand what I’m trying to say, anyone can. Panky has never understood that that’s a compliment, by the way!”
“Darrell is a tremendous asset to both the station and this community,” said WTVC general manager Mike Costa. “It’s difficult to imagine, after nearly 40 years, he will no longer be reporting the scores and stories of our favorite sports. We’re sad that he’ll be leaving us, but also very honored to have had him as part of our team for so long.”
Patterson’s last day will be December 12.