Favourite sporting personalities

EVERY Saturday The Chronicle sport team talks about the big (and not so big) issues in sport. With the tragic passing of Darrell Eastlake this week the team has turned its attention to sporting personalities – picking out their favourites.

Sean Teuma: Commentator Warren Smith would have to be top of my list.

I’ve respected Smith’s views for a long time.

His ability to analyse the game is second to none, as well as his ability to view the game of rugby league from an impartial standpoint.

In the modern day where shows such as The Footy Show are fast declining, I would love to see him join the likes of Peter Sterling for a panel show.

I’d certainly be tuning in each week.

In terms of a local identity, how could you go past Pop Dickerson.

I had the chance to meet Pop for the first time during the Big Q grand finals last year, and you’d struggle to find a man with more charisma.

The work he has done for basketball in the Toowoomba region over the years has been phenomenal, and to have a figure like this in our own town is a blessing.

Here’s hoping he continues his involvement in this year’s Big Q season. Glen McCullough: This is a tough one for me.

As someone who writes about sport for a living I admire so many people in my field, be it print, radio or television.

I confess I do try to take something from as many of them as possible in an endeavour to help me make a better fist of what I do.

I’ve written here previously about my admiration for golf and cricket writers and the talents of Australian motor racing commentator Neil Crompton.

But does Australian sport have a better friend and professional mouthpiece than Bruce McAvaney?

The bloke has everything. Most importantly he has a genuine love of each sport he broadcasts and what he might occasionally lack in knowledge on the subject he more than makes up for with tireless homework.

His dedication to research and learning is clearly evident in his commentary and presentation, leaving us all the better educated.

Probably his greatest quality is being able to pass on that knowledge and self tuition in a pleasant and entertaining style.

Pleasingly, he pulls it off without sounding like a knowall or loud mouth.

Locally I’ve seen too many talented and dedicated sport leaders and personalities to unfairly single one out above any other.

But what I will do is leave you with one name who inspired and supported all of us as we try to make this town a better place through the promotion of sport: Pat O’Shea.

Jason Gibbs: I could listen to Martin Tyler every day of the week.

His ability to call more than what he is seeing on a football field has made my viewing experience all the more memorable.

In my book his knowledge of the game at all levels is second to none. He adds a wonderfully intricate layer of depth to every game he calls.

He has also been the voice I associate with some of my favourite football moments.

Here’s the real kicker for me though – the cherry on top – he’s also an unashamed fan of the game.

If someone finds space and slides a goal of the year he’s on the mike celebrating just like the fans in the stadium - you have to love that.

Even the most ardent Tour de France fan will admit it’s not a very visually appealing event – aside from the landscape.

But it always draws a massive viewing audience,.

Last year’s coverage felt a little wrong though – like watching the Yellow Jersey holder negotiate the Avenue des Champs-Elysées on a busted rim.

Since 1991 Phil Leggett has been the Voice of Cycling here in Australia and around the world.

As polarising as they may have been Leggett and his trusty sidekick Paul Sherwen bought colour and passion to cycling.

Last year they were relegated to “special guest” roles and the rolling coverage of the tour was lacking as result.

Bring back the dynamic duo full time I say.