Episode 147

Tribute to Rick Wolff

Published on: 2nd May, 2023

Prepare to embark on a special episode of WGBB's Sports Talk NY radio show, where esteemed host Rob Fried takes a heartfelt moment to pay tribute to a true sports aficionado, Rick Wolff. With deep reverence, Rob honors the memory of Rick, a multifaceted individual who left an indelible mark on the world of sports as an American book editor, author, college coach, broadcaster, and even a onetime professional baseball player. As the airwaves resonate with the warmth of nostalgia, Rob fondly recalls Rick's long-running show, The Sports Edge, a beloved program that graced the airwaves on Sunday mornings on WFAN. Listeners are encouraged to join Rob in celebrating Rick's profound contributions to the realm of amateur sports, as his legacy continues to inspire and resonate with sports enthusiasts around the world.

In a seamless transition, Rob dives into a captivating conversation with Joel Pasternak, a national class runner whose annual show on the NYC Marathon became a tradition in its own right. Joel's passion for running shines through as he shares his exhilarating experiences and insights garnered from years of participation in this iconic event. Listeners are taken on a journey through the excitement, the endurance, and the triumphs of the NYC Marathon, as Joel's vivid descriptions transport them to the very heart of this extraordinary race. With each word, Joel ignites the spirit of determination and the joy of overcoming challenges, inspiring runners and enthusiasts alike to lace up their shoes and pursue their own athletic aspirations.

But the excitement doesn't stop there! Rob continues to captivate listeners as he welcomes Bill Mitaritonna to the show, an accomplished author of Last of the Redmen: Memoir of a St. John’s Basketball Walk-On. The air crackles with anticipation as Rob delves into Bill's inspiring journey as a walk-on player for the renowned St. John's basketball team. Listeners are treated to a glimpse behind the scenes of college basketball, as Bill shares his firsthand experiences, the challenges faced, and the resilience required to pursue one's dreams against all odds. Through Bill's story, the power of determination and the importance of seizing opportunities come to life, resonating with listeners who yearn for stories of grit, passion, and unwavering dedication.

In this extraordinary episode, Rob Fried crafts a tapestry of tribute, inspiration, and gripping storytelling, honoring the legacy of Rick Wolff, celebrating the spirit of the NYC Marathon, and shining a spotlight on the resilience and determination of a St. John's basketball walk-on. Through these narratives, listeners are reminded of the enduring power of sports, the captivating stories they generate, and the way they inspire individuals to reach for greatness in their own lives. So tune in and let Rob guide you through this captivating journey, where memories are cherished, achievements are celebrated, and the magic of sports continues to ignite our souls.

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About the Podcast

WGBB Sports Talk New York
Talking New York sports on Long Island's WGBB Radio.
Broadcasting LIVE Sunday nights at 8:00PM on Long Island's WGBB Radio 95.5FM | 1240AM. We're talking NEW YORK SPORTS! The Yankees, Mets, Giants, Jets, Knicks, Nets, Rangers, Islanders, Devils and the New York metro-area college scene are all up for discussion.

Listen for our interviews with past and present professional New York athletes- as well as local sports writers, authors, broadcasters and others with something new, interesting and different to say about New York sports. Join our hosts live on the air by calling in on the WGBB studio hotline at (516) 623-1240.

The podcast includes a WGBB SPORTS TALK FLASHBACK bonus episode each week! Available ONLY to podcast subscribers, bonus episodes will consist of old sports talk shows and interviews with former pro New York athletes, all originally aired on WGBB. Don't miss out- Subscribe Today!

WGBB Sports Talk New York replaced the long running SPORTSTALK1240 on WGBB (2007-2020) in January 2021.

UPCOMING SHOWS
April 21st... Hosted by Bill Donohue, followed by Andy Suekoff at 9:00pm.
April 28th... Mike Guidone and Chris Caputo host, followed by TBD at 9:00pm.
May 5th... Bill Donohue hosts, followed by TBD at 9:00pm.
May 12th... Mike Guidone and Chris Caputo host, followed by TBD at 9:00pm.
May 19th... Bill Donohue hosts, followed by TBD at 9:00pm.
May 26th... Mike Guidone and Chris Caputo host, followed by TBD at 9:00pm.

About your hosts

Rob Kowal

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Rob is the Executive Producer of WGBB's Sports Talk New York. While he still gets behind the mic from time to time to host the show, Rob mostly works behind the scenes helping to book guests, maintain the website and promote the show on social media.

Bill Donohue

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Bill's first vivid recollection of sports revolves around the magical seasons of 1969 – when the Mets, Knicks and Jets all won championships – and Bobby Cox was playing 3B for the Yankees. A history buff and ports “purist,” he enjoys the comparison of the eras and discussing those contrasting viewpoints. Bill is a benefactor of the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and enjoys visiting the hallowed shrine to our national pastime whenever possible.

Mike Trezza

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Mike is a veteran of the local sports media scene. He's done play-by-play work for football, basketball and lacrosse on local TV, radio and digital platforms, and hosted various talk shows since 1995. He also serves as the public address announcer for several local colleges and high schools. Mike teaches at Farmingdale State College and Suffolk Community College. Since January 2021 Mike has been hosting Spot on Sports with Mike Guidone.

Mike Guidone

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Mike is the girls' varsity basketball coach at Locust Valley High School. This past winter, his team broke the all-time Long Island consecutive victory record for girls' basketball, winning 54 straight over the course of 3 seasons. He also coaches boys' and girls' tennis. Mike is a teacher at Westbury High School. Since January 2021 Mike has been hosting Spot on Sports with Mike Trezza.

Andy Suekoff

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Andy is an in-game analyst for Stony Brook University Hockey, as well as an Ingest Coordinator for Encompass Digital Media in Stamford, CT. A graduate of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University, Andy was a play-by-play announcer for five NCAA Division I sports during his time as the school, and hosted a half hour weekly talk show, Bottom of the 6th. Andy is an avid fan of all the major sports, college football/basketball and MMA, specifically including the Yankees, Rangers, Jets and St. John’s.

Anthony Stabile

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Bio coming soon!