Drew Goodman – Colorado Rockies Broadcaster Celebrates 30 Years Behind the Mic

When it comes to the voices of baseball, few are as recognizable to Colorado fans as Drew Goodman. The veteran broadcaster has been the television play-by-play voice of the Colorado Rockies for over two decades, bringing the team’s highs and lows into living rooms across the Rocky Mountain region. His 23-year tenure with the Colorado Rockies makes him one of the most established and respected voices in Major League Baseball.

Goodman’s career extends well beyond just calling baseball games. Born on April 13, 1963, he has established himself as one of the most versatile broadcasters in sports, working various events throughout his career before finding his home with the Rockies in 2002. His distinctive voice and deep knowledge of the game have made him a trusted companion for fans through rebuilding years and playoff runs alike.

Beyond the broadcast booth, Goodman has expanded his media presence with The Drew Goodman Podcast, where he takes listeners behind the scenes of Denver sports. He’s also authored a book about the Rockies and maintains an active presence on social media, where fans can follow him under the username @drewgoodman42 on Instagram.

Early Life and Education

Drew Goodman’s journey to becoming the voice of the Colorado Rockies began with his New York roots and was shaped by his educational experiences in communications. His formative years laid the groundwork for what would become a distinguished broadcasting career.

Birth and Family Background

Drew Ian Goodman was born on April 13, 1963, in New York. Growing up in a diverse “melting pot neighborhood” in suburban New York City, he developed an early love for sports, particularly baseball. This passion wasn’t random – it was passed down to him, creating a foundation for his future career.

His New York upbringing exposed him to some of the most passionate sports markets in the country. The regional sports culture likely influenced his broadcasting style, which would later be characterized by both enthusiasm and professionalism.

Though details about his immediate family are limited in public records, his early environment clearly nurtured his sports interests and communication abilities.

College Years at Ithaca College

Goodman pursued higher education at Ithaca College in upstate New York, graduating in 1985 with a bachelor’s degree in communications. Ithaca College is well-regarded for its communications program, providing Goodman with the technical training and theoretical knowledge essential for broadcasting.

During his college years, Goodman likely participated in the school’s student media outlets. This gave him hands-on experience that would prove valuable for his future career. Ithaca’s communications program is known for its practical approach, giving students opportunities to work in real broadcasting environments.

His time at Ithaca College established the professional foundation that would eventually lead him to over 30 years as an award-winning sportscaster, culminating in his role as the TV voice of the Colorado Rockies since 2002.

Broadcasting Career

Drew Goodman’s broadcasting journey spans decades, establishing him as one of the most respected voices in sports broadcasting. His career has taken him from early beginnings to becoming the iconic voice of the Colorado Rockies.

Early Broadcasting Experience

Drew Goodman built his foundation in sports broadcasting long before becoming a household name in Colorado. He honed his craft working in various markets, developing the versatile style that would later become his trademark.

His early career included radio and television work where he covered multiple sports. This diverse experience helped him develop a well-rounded approach to broadcasting.

Goodman’s attention to detail and ability to paint a picture with words set him apart from his peers. These skills would prove invaluable as his career progressed.

Before Colorado, he worked at several stations where he refined his distinctive broadcasting style. His early experiences prepared him for the bigger opportunities that awaited.

The Move to Denver

Goodman’s career took a significant turn when he relocated to Denver, a move that would define his professional trajectory. The Mile High City offered him a platform to showcase his talents to a passionate sports fanbase.

In Denver, he quickly established himself across multiple sports platforms. His versatility allowed him to connect with local audiences who appreciated his straightforward delivery and knowledge.

He became a familiar voice on 104.3 The Fan, building relationships with Denver sports enthusiasts. His work covering the Denver Nuggets helped him gain recognition throughout the region.

From 2002-2004, Goodman juggled duties calling both Nuggets basketball and Rockies baseball, showcasing his remarkable range as a broadcaster.

Rise with the Colorado Rockies

Goodman’s career reached new heights when he became the television voice of the Colorado Rockies. What began as an opportunity has evolved into a legendary tenure spanning more than two decades.

As of 2024, Goodman has completed his 23rd season calling Rockies games. His consistency and professionalism have made him synonymous with the franchise.

Goodman has been recognized as the NSMA Colorado Broadcaster of the Year thirteen times, a testament to his excellence behind the microphone. His broadcasts on AT&T SportsNet (previously Root Sports) have become the soundtrack of summer for Colorado baseball fans.

He’s called numerous memorable moments in franchise history, from no-hitters to playoff runs. His voice has become inseparable from Rockies baseball.

Beyond Baseball: Other Sports Coverage

While the Rockies have become his primary focus, Goodman’s versatility extends well beyond baseball. His knowledge across multiple sports has allowed him to excel in various broadcasting roles.

He’s covered NFL games and college football throughout his career. His work with Fox Sports demonstrated his ability to transition seamlessly between different sports.

Goodman has also provided commentary for ACC basketball games, showcasing his basketball acumen. His broadcasting portfolio includes work on regional and national platforms.

In recent years, he has expanded his reach with the Drew Goodman Podcast, where he discusses Colorado sports and interviews notable figures. This platform has allowed him to connect with fans in new ways while sharing insights from his decades in sports media.

Achievements and Recognition

Drew Goodman has earned widespread acclaim for his exceptional broadcasting skills during his tenure with the Colorado Rockies. His distinctive voice and insightful commentary have made him one of the most decorated sportscasters in Colorado history.

Colorado Sportscaster of the Year

Goodman’s talent has been consistently recognized at the state level, where he has won more than a dozen Colorado Sportscaster of the Year awards. This remarkable achievement demonstrates his enduring excellence in the broadcasting booth.

His first such honor came early in his Rockies career, setting the stage for what would become a pattern of recognition. The frequency of these awards speaks to his consistency and reliability as the voice of Colorado baseball.

Industry insiders point to Goodman’s versatility as a key factor in his repeated recognition. He brings the same level of professionalism to each broadcast, whether calling a routine regular season game or an intense playoff matchup.

National Recognition and Awards

Beyond state honors, Goodman has gained national attention for his work. His association with the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association has further cemented his status in the broadcasting community.

After 23 seasons as the Rockies play-by-play announcer, Goodman’s voice has become synonymous with Colorado baseball. This longevity is itself a testament to his skill and professionalism.

His expansion into podcast hosting with “The Drew Goodman Podcast” and his role as co-host of the “Charlie Blackmon Show” on The Fan demonstrate his versatility across media platforms. These additional ventures have broadened his professional footprint and brought further recognition.

Goodman’s reputation extends beyond baseball, as he’s considered one of the most versatile broadcasters in sports, having provided commentary across multiple sports throughout his distinguished career.

Personal Interests and Side Projects

Beyond the broadcast booth, Drew Goodman has cultivated a variety of interests and community engagements that showcase his passion for Colorado sports culture and giving back to the community.

Involvement in Local Sports

Drew Goodman’s sports interests extend well beyond baseball. He’s been an avid follower of the Denver Nuggets for years, often attending games during the MLB off-season. His knowledge of basketball runs deep, having covered college basketball tournaments earlier in his career.

Goodman is also an enthusiastic golfer. According to Colorado AvidGolfer, he inherited his love of baseball from his father but developed his own passion for golf. He participates in several charity golf tournaments throughout Colorado each year.

His versatility as a sportscaster reflects his genuine interest in multiple sports. Before focusing primarily on the Rockies, Goodman covered a wide range of Colorado sports events, demonstrating his comprehensive knowledge of the local sports scene.

Charity and Community Service

Goodman has established himself as a committed community servant in Colorado. He regularly participates in Rockies charity events, using his platform to raise awareness for various causes.

His community work often intersects with youth sports programs. Goodman has helped raise funds for underprivileged children to participate in baseball and other sports activities across Colorado.

Through The Drew Goodman Podcast, launched in recent years, he not only discusses sports but also highlights local charities and community initiatives. The podcast serves as another avenue for Goodman to support causes he believes in while connecting with fans.

His longevity in Colorado media—23 years with the Rockies as of 2024—has allowed him to build lasting relationships with numerous charitable organizations, making him a valuable advocate for community development through sports.

Impact on Sports Broadcasting

Drew Goodman has established himself as a cornerstone in sports broadcasting through his remarkable tenure with the Colorado Rockies. His distinctive voice and analytical approach have influenced how baseball games are called and presented to viewers across the region.

Contributions to Sports Media

As the voice of the Colorado Rockies for over 17 years, Goodman has transformed the regional sports broadcasting landscape with his versatile approach. His ability to blend detailed analysis with engaging storytelling has set a standard for baseball broadcasters nationwide.

From 2002-2004, Goodman demonstrated exceptional versatility by calling games for both the Denver Nuggets and the Colorado Rockies, handling an impressive workload of more than 190 games annually. This dual-sport broadcasting achievement remains relatively uncommon in the industry.

Goodman’s broadcasting style emphasizes educating viewers about baseball’s nuances while maintaining accessibility for casual fans. His consistency has provided stability during a period when regional sports networks have faced significant challenges.

Mentoring Aspiring Broadcasters

Goodman has developed a reputation for nurturing the next generation of sports broadcasters, most notably including his own son. Zach Goodman has followed in his father’s footsteps, with Drew listening to almost every one of his son’s broadcasts during the MLB offseason.

His mentorship extends beyond family, as he regularly provides guidance to young broadcasters entering the field. Goodman’s willingness to share insights from his extensive career has helped shape broadcasting talent throughout the Rocky Mountain region.

With MLB potentially acquiring Rockies’ TV rights and producing games for the current season, Goodman’s expertise becomes even more valuable as broadcasting models evolve. His adaptability through various media landscapes demonstrates why he remains an influential figure for aspiring sports commentators.

Personal Life

Beyond the broadcast booth, Drew Goodman has built a fulfilling personal life that balances his demanding career with family commitments and diverse interests.

Family

Drew Goodman shares his life with his wife Kristi. Together, they’ve raised three sons: Jacob, Zach, and Gabriel.

Family connections run deep in the Goodman household, particularly when it comes to baseball. Drew’s father passed down his passion for the sport, creating a multi-generational love of the game.

His son Zach has notably followed in his father’s footsteps. At 61 years old, Drew has watched proudly as Zach has embarked on his own broadcasting career.

The family’s Colorado roots have grown strong since Drew moved to the state in 1986, where he landed his first job after graduating from Ithaca College.

Off-Camera Interests

When Goodman isn’t calling Rockies games, he finds time to pursue other passions. He’s an avid golfer who enjoys hitting the links during the baseball offseason. His love for golf provides a welcome contrast to the intensity of baseball broadcasting.

Goodman has also channeled his broadcasting expertise into The Drew Goodman Podcast, where he explores sports topics beyond his television role. The podcast showcases his versatility and deep knowledge across multiple sports.

His educational background at Ithaca College included a brief stint as a baseball player before focusing fully on broadcasting. This playing experience, though limited, has informed his insightful commentary throughout his career.

Goodman’s versatility extends beyond baseball. His career spans over 30 years and has established him as an award-winning sportscaster in both television and radio.