2022 Countdown to IUFB Kickoff: 20 Days (Don Fischer)

Written by Matt Smith

Welcome to the 2022 edition of the Hoosier Huddle Countdown! We are now officially underway as we countdown from 100 to the beginning of the 2022 Indiana University football season. Each day, we will take a look at one (or two) players on the current roster and highlight the players' role in the upcoming season. Number 20 on the list is legendary broadcaster Don Fischer.

Fischer is often recognized as the radio voice of the Hoosiers, during his long tenure of calling the football and basketball games. Fischer is celebrating his 50th year behind the mic with IU Athletics.

Prior to the season Fischer was named the 2022 recipient of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame's Chris Schenkel Award, which recognizes individuals who have had long, distinguished careers broadcasting college football with direct ties to a specific university.

"For the last 50 years, Hoosier fans like myself have had the privilege of enjoying the absolute best in the business in Don Fischer, and I am thrilled to see him honored with one of his industry's most prestigious honors," IU Vice President and Director of Athletics Scott Dolson said.

Fellow IU radio personality Joe Smith has been with Fischer for nearly 40 years and has the utmost respect for his friend.

“I would not miss Don’s 50th season for anything in the world,” Smith said. “Nothing has made me happier than being a part of Indiana football and men’s basketball broadcasts with the best play-by-play man in the country. Don is a true friend and to share the booth with him one final year, well, it doesn’t get any better than that.”

Fischer has been named Indiana sportscaster of the year 26 times. He was also inducted into the ISSA Hall of Fame.

Fischer has broadcasted over 1600 Hoosiers sporting events. This includes eight bowl games, four  basketball national championships, and 2 NIT championships.

Don Fischer will have Rhett Lewis join him in the booth this season.