When you reach a milestone birthday and receive a big lifetime achievement honor at the same time, the finish line to a career comes into clearer focus.
Chris Berman definitely will have reason to be reflective this week. Tuesday, the long-time ESPN anchor will be among this year’s inductees into the Cable Hall of Fame at a ceremony at Navy Pier. Sunday, he turns 60.
Berman, an avid golfer, put the current stage of his career in golf terms.
“I’m putting on the 14th hole,” Berman said. “I still have a few more holes to affect the overall score. There’s no other way to look at it.”
When told many prominent sports announcers are working well into their 70s, Berman said, “I won’t go that long.” However, he also stressed he isn’t making any plans to retire just yet.
“Sixty is an eye-opener,” Berman said. “The belly’s bigger and you have less hair. But I still enjoy what I’m doing and I still think I’m good at it. I think people like getting their football from us.”
The Cable Hall of Fame honor also has Berman taking stock in his career. He was an unknown 24-year-old broadcaster when he joined ESPN in Oct., 1979, one month after the new network launched. The six-time National Sportscaster of the Year helped put ESPN on the map.
“Cable has been around for about 40 years, and I’ve been around for almost all of that,” Berman said. “I realize people are appreciative of what ESPN has done. Me being the quarterback, I get a little more credit than I deserve, or a little more blame than I deserve. They’re honoring the network.
“I think of all the people whose names you’ll never know. A piece of them shares in this award.”
You’re with me, BERMAN!