Voice of RiverDogs heading to UMass

The Post and Courier

Maurer

If he had a choice, he would have finished out the season, but sometimes timing isn't perfect for a new opportunity.

Josh Maurer, whom many radio listeners have known as the voice of the Charleston RiverDogs, has moved on to the next stage of his career, taking the job of manager of broadcast properties at the University of Massachusetts. The school announced the move on Tuesday, and Maurer plans to broadcast to the Lowcountry for the final time during the upcoming homestand from Sunday through the following Thursday.

"I hate to leave in the middle of the season. I hate to do it to my bosses, the coaches and the players. I always like to finish a job, but the timing of the job prohibited me from staying any longer," he said. "I loved my time in Charleston more than I could say. It was a time for me to personally and professionally grow."

Maurer, 27, has been broadcasting in the Charleston area since 2005, when he became the RiverDogs' radio broadcaster. He has also been the voice for Charleston Southern football and basketball games. He grew up in Pennsylvania and graduated from the University of Maryland.

"I think my biggest regret in leaving is leaving the Southern lifestyle," he said. "I'll miss the sweet tea and friendliness of the people."

One of the unique aspects of his broadcasts was the numerous local guests he had on air. Maurer had no problem sharing the microphone with visiting celebrities, dignitaries and any of the other local media personalities who were willing to provide color commentary.

"I think it's the best thing we did," he said. "The fact that we had guests made the broadcasts better and made me better."

It also gave him the chance to show that he could talk about the other local college and professional sports with the same ease as he did with baseball.

Danny Reed, the assistant director of media relations, has taken over Maurer's radio role. He has been with the RiverDogs during their current road trip in anticipation of Maurer's hiring at UMass becoming official.

Reach Bill Henley at 937-5595 or bhenley@postandcourier.com.