CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University and LEARFIELD/Saluki Sports Properties, which manages the SIU radio network and multimedia rights, announced today the naming of Luke Martin as the new director of broadcasting and radio “Voice of the Salukis.” Martin, who succeeds Saluki Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike Reis, begins on July 24.
For the past six seasons, Martin was the play-by-play voice for Indiana State football, men’s basketball and baseball, while also producing news and features for GoSycamores.com and the school’s digital platforms.
Martin is a 2014 graduate of Ball State’s nationally acclaimed Digital Sports Production program and was host of the Emmy Award-winning “3rd Down Chirp.” After graduation, Martin served as the play-by-play broadcaster for UNC Greensboro for one season, where he also hosted weekly coaches shows, produced the school’s video content, and produced/directed ESPN3 telecasts.
SIU’s search committee screened more than 90 applicants for the position before selecting Martin, according to Tim Leonard, director of athletics for the Salukis.
“The committee reviewed countless hours of demo reels from some of the best radio talent in the country, and Luke was our top choice, not only for his distinctive on-air delivery, but for the passion he brings to this important position,” Leonard said. “Luke is an outstanding storyteller, with a love of sports and people. Much like Mike Reis, he has a warm, genuine personality that shines brightly during his broadcasts.”
Martin said it was an honor to be chosen to follow Reis, who stepped down from the broadcast chair last May after completing his 44th season of radio play-by-play for SIU.
“I won’t be filling his shoes, as only Mike could wear them,” Martin said. “I owe it to Saluki fans to honor his legacy by being who I am, while instilling the relentless work ethic I learned from watching him in my career. I can’t wait to earn the respect and trust of Salukis everywhere.”
While living in Terre Haute, Martin served a stint as sports director at 1130 The Fan radio, hosting a popular daily talk show, “In The Haute.” Martin brought national names such as Dan Shulman, Seth Greenburg, Reggie Wayne and others on the air in the Terre Haute market on a frequent basis.
As an undergrad at Ball State, Martin interned with Major League Baseball Productions, Turner Sports NCAA March Madness Live and the Indianapolis Colts.
“I’m humbled beyond measure to be named the next voice of the Salukis,” Martin added. “I want to thank Tim Leonard, Tom Boman, Jon Ihrig, Tom Weber and the rest of the committee for putting their faith in me to continue the strong tradition of Saluki radio.”