By: Zach Davis (@AssuredFame)
The CFSL has been lucky enough to have many great broadcasters call the action. But few have had the impact that Cole Mantell has had. The four-time Broadcaster of the Year’s voice has become synonymous with the CFSL. It is with a heavy heart that we bring you the news of his retirement from the booth.
I sat down with this living legend to talk about his career and what the future holds.
Zach:
Looking back on your incredible career in broadcasting, can you share some of the standout moments or experiences that left a mark on you? How have these experiences influenced your perspective on sports broadcasting?
Cole:
For me, the people I got to work with every day were what set this job apart. When I started broadcasting, I had been in the CFSL for a few seasons, and I was looking to find a remote work job that fit my college schedule. I had previously been involved in youth sports (referee, player, administrator, etc.) so it felt like a good fit. The CFSL was the first job I ever was a broadcaster in, however. Mike and Frosty taught me all I know in this field, so I’m eternally grateful for their help honing my craft. As for my favorite games I’ve called, I think the Pro League Season 3 Championship and the Season 17 Semifinal (Michigan vs Florida) are both up there for me.
Zach:
Broadcasting has seen some significant changes over the years. In your view, how has the industry transformed during your time, and what advice do you have for up-and-coming broadcasters who want to thrive in today’s CFSL?
Cole:
As for advice to broadcasters getting into the game, the biggest thing I found that helped me was twofold. First, watch your previous broadcasts in full. Listen to what you say, and how you might improve. Listen to your broadcast partner too. You’ll notice I have a very different style of broadcasting if I am calling with Ryan or Josh (Wookie), for example.
The second part [is] to find what makes your broadcasting style unique. For me, it was data and my ability to quickly see how that might inform a developing play. Everyone has a unique talent to bring to the broadcast booth. Find what works well for you and build that talent.
Zach:
As you prepare to step back from your role in the CFSL, what kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind? And when you think about the future of sports broadcasting in CFSL, what do you envision?
Cole:
As for the future, I think the CFSL broadcast booth is stronger than ever. Long gone are the days when someone (or two) could win multiple Broadcaster of the Year awards in a row. I think as the league evolves, we will see teams continue to join the league, and the jobs of broadcasters will continue to grow. I’m excited to see how the booth evolves on this.
Zach:
Thank you, Cole! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Cole:
Not much. I’ll still be around. [I] still got a Championship to win at Auburn. War Eagle.
As we conclude our conversation today, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Cole, a broadcasting icon in the CFSL. Cole, your dedication to the league, your remarkable insights, and the invaluable advice you’ve shared will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on both aspiring and seasoned broadcasters alike.
