Eli Gold, the voice of Alabama football for 33 years, will not be returning to the broadcast booth for the 2024 season. The University of Alabama announced that it has decided not to renew Goldâs contract, and that he will be replaced by Chris Stewart, who has been with the Crimson Tide Sports Network since 2009. This decision has sparked a lot of reactions from fans, players, and coaches, who have expressed their appreciation for Goldâs contributions to the Alabama football program. In this article, we will explore what happened to Gold, how people reacted to his departure, and what possible reasons led to the decision not to retain him.
What Happened to Eli Gold?
Gold, who was born in Brooklyn, New York, began his broadcasting career in 1972, working for various radio and television stations. He joined the Crimson Tide Sports Network in 1991, and became the play-by-play announcer for Alabama football games. He also hosted the weekly radio show âHey Coachâ with the head coach of the football team, and covered other sports such as basketball, baseball, and hockey. Gold was known for his distinctive voice, his passion for the game, and his catchphrases such as âTouchdown Alabama!â and âItâs good, itâs good, itâs good!â
Goldâs contract with the University of Alabama was set to expire after the 2023 season, which ended with Alabama winning its 19th national championship. However, in January 2024, Gold was informed by the university that he would not be returning for the 2024 season, and that his contract would not be renewed. He was also told that his replacement would be Chris Stewart, who had been working as the sideline reporter and the host of the pregame and postgame shows for the Crimson Tide Sports Network. Stewart had also filled in for Gold in 2019, when Gold underwent heart surgery and missed four games.
Gold said that he was surprised and disappointed by the decision, and that he had hoped to continue his broadcasting career with Alabama. He said that he had no hard feelings towards Stewart, who he considered a friend and a colleague, and that he wished him the best. He also thanked the fans, the players, the coaches, and the university for their support and loyalty over the years. He said that he was proud of his work, and that he had enjoyed every minute of it.
Reactions to Goldâs Departure
The news of Goldâs departure was met with shock and sadness by many fans, who had grown accustomed to hearing his voice on the radio and on the television. Many fans took to social media to express their gratitude and admiration for Gold, and to share their favorite memories of his calls. Some fans even started a petition to keep Gold as the broadcaster, which gathered over 10,000 signatures in a few days. Some fans also criticized the university for its decision, and questioned its motives and rationale.
Goldâs impact on the Alabama football program was also recognized by the players and the coaches, who praised him for his professionalism, his enthusiasm, and his dedication. Some of the former players who played under Goldâs tenure, such as Derrick Henry, Tua Tagovailoa, and DeVonta Smith, posted messages of appreciation and respect for Gold, and thanked him for being a part of their journey. The current head coach, Nick Saban, also issued a statement, saying that Gold was âa legend in the broadcasting industryâ, and that he was âa tremendous ambassador for the University of Alabama and our football programâ. Saban said that he enjoyed working with Gold, and that he wished him well in his future endeavors.
Possible Reasons for Not Retaining Gold
The University of Alabama did not provide any official explanation for its decision not to retain Gold, and said that it was a âmutual agreementâ between the parties. However, some speculations and rumors have emerged, suggesting some possible reasons for the decision. Some of these reasons are:
- Budget cuts: The university may have faced some financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and may have looked for ways to reduce its expenses. Goldâs contract may have been too costly for the university, and it may have opted for a cheaper option in Stewart, who may have agreed to a lower salary.
- Desire for a younger voice: The university may have wanted to appeal to a younger and more diverse audience, and may have felt that Goldâs voice was too old-fashioned and outdated. Stewart, who is 47 years old, may have been seen as a more modern and dynamic voice, who could attract more listeners and viewers.
- Lack of innovative broadcasting techniques: The university may have wanted to improve its broadcasting quality and technology, and may have felt that Goldâs style was too simple and boring. Stewart, who has experience in television and digital media, may have been seen as a more creative and versatile broadcaster, who could use more advanced and interactive techniques to enhance the fan experience.
- Differences in negotiating contract terms: The university and Gold may have had some disagreements or conflicts over the terms and conditions of the contract renewal. Gold may have asked for more money, more benefits, or more control over the broadcast, and the university may have refused to meet his demands. Stewart, who may have been more flexible and cooperative, may have been seen as a more suitable and agreeable partner.
Conclusion
Eli Goldâs departure from the Alabama football broadcast team is a significant and controversial event, that has generated a lot of emotions and opinions from the fans, the players, and the coaches. Gold, who has been the voice of Alabama football for 33 years, will not be returning for the 2024 season, and will be replaced by Chris Stewart, who has been with the Crimson Tide Sports Network for 15 years. The reasons for the decision are not clear, but some possible factors include budget cuts, desire for a younger voice, lack of innovative broadcasting techniques, and differences in negotiating contract terms. Gold said that he was surprised and disappointed by the decision, but that he had no hard feelings towards Stewart, and that he thanked the fans, the players, the coaches, and the university for their support and loyalty over the years. He said that he was proud of his work, and that he had enjoyed every minute of it. Goldâs impact on the Alabama football program is undeniable, and he will be remembered as one of the best and most beloved broadcasters in the history of college sports.
