The Leach Report

As a high school senior, Tom listed his ultimate career goal “to become the next Voice of the Wildcats.” Almost every broadcaster in Kentucky wants that best seat in Rupp Arena, but the dream came true for Tom. Now, he follows in the footsteps of Cawood Ledford, Ralph Hacker, Claude Sullivan, Jim Host and the others who have called the games for the Cats.

Tom began his work on the UK Radio Network in 1989 as host of the postgame scoreboard and call-in shows. Eight years later, he was named the play-by-play voice for Kentucky football and he added the basketball responsibilities in 2001. Since then, he’s been named Kentucky Sportscaster of the year five times.

Tom has been at the mic for many memorable moments for UK sports. These include the 2012 national championship for the Kentucky basketball team and an upset of number one-ranked LSU on the gridiron in 2007. He’s worked four Final Fours and seven bowl games while covering the Wildcats.

Another Bluegrass tradition is part of Tom’s broadcasting resume–horse racing. Tom is a two-time winner of the prestigious Eclipse Award for excellence in coverage of Thoroughbred racing and he covers racing throughout through his association with Keeneland.

Leach’s love of sports was passed down from father to son. Alvin Leach was a member of the Lexington Hustlers, a historic semi-pro baseball team. The Hustlers team, formed in the 1940’s, is believed to be one of the first integrated squads in the south. Leach’s brother, Steve, was a standout quarterback at Georgetown College in the early 1960’s. And Leach’s uncle, Billy Hall, received a football scholarship to the University of Kentucky and played under the legendary Paul “Bear” Bryant.

Through his Tom Leach Productions company, Tom also hosts a daily radio show on UK sports, And Tom is an author, having penned “Rich Tradition,” about Rich Brooks and his revival of the UK football program. Tom Leach Productions also manages Tom’s endorsement partnerships and speaking engagements.

Tom is a 1979 graduate of Bourbon County High School and a 1983 graduate of the University of Kentucky. Tom is married to Robyn Rabbeth, a former anchor for WLEX-TV. They have two children: Connor and Caroline.

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