The PAC-12 made a big splash Wednesday as it prepares for the August 2012 launch of its television network, by announcing a trio of on-air personalities.
Joining the network will be three former PAC-12 athletes: Ronnie Lott (USC football), Summer Sanders (Stanford volleyball) and Rick Neuheisel (UCLA, football). Neuheisel also was the head coach at three PAC-12 member schools: UCLA, Washington and Colorado, though Colorado was a member of the Big XII during his tenure.
From the PAC-12's press release:
"This is an exciting day for the Pac-12 Networks as we bring on three of the greatest leaders and personalities in Pac-12 history as the initial members of our on air broadcast team," said Lydia Murphy-Stephans, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Pac-12 Networks. "Exceptional storytelling is going to be the foundation of the Pac-12 Networks and with the success of our universities and student-athletes the storylines are never-ending. With Ronnie, Rick and Summer, we have three professionals who have a passion and deep understanding for the history and excellence that exists in the Pac-12. Their skills, expertise and unique insights will help us elevate our coverage and deliver the most compelling stories to our fans."
Ronnie Lott:
"When I first heard that the Pac-12 was planning to build seven networks to showcase all of the incredible student-athletes and programs throughout the Conference it was one of those WOW moments," Lott said. "What is being created is truly remarkable and I'm excited to be part of it. If you are a fan or alum of the Pac-12 you have to have these networks."
Summer Sanders:
"I am thrilled to be a part of the Pac-12 Networks," Sanders said. "It's like coming home for me. Being a Stanford alum who was born and raised in Northern California, I truly believe there's no greater Conference in the country. It puts a huge smile on my face to know that I am now going to be one of its voices in sports broadcasting."
Rick Neuheisel:
"This is an amazing opportunity. I have such a deep passion and respect for the Conference and for all of the schools," Neuheisel said. "I have been affiliated with the Pac-12 since I was six years old when my dad taught at Arizona State. I never missed a Sun Devils game growing up. Then I got the chance to play at UCLA and went to law school at USC. I began a coaching career at UCLA that took me to Colorado then to Washington and back to UCLA. The launch of the Pac-12 Networks is very exciting and I am thrilled for this opportunity to help deliver unprecedented exposure to the Conference of Champions."
Lott and Neuheisel will serve as football analysts for the network, while Ssnders will serve as a host and an "expert analyst for a variety of shows and events."
The network will provide 24/7 coverage of PAC-12 athletics utilizing one national network and six regional networks.
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For more on the PAC-12 visit Pacific Takes.