Meet the voice of Cyclones football, Mark Pfleiger. Mark has been announcing football games since 1988, back when the La Harpe High School football team were known as the Eagles.
Mark and his wife of 21 years, Linda, work together at the Friday night games. She is Mark's spotter, helping him keep an eye on all the action.
In a sense, Mark fell into the announcing position. He always hung around the press box while watching the games. He stated that there was no one who permanently had the position, so he decided to give it a try. Mark has had previous experience, working in his own sound and mic show. He has also worked in radio while attending college.
Mark enjoys "watching the young men be successful and he also likes to see them bring home a victory for the home team." Growing up in Colchester, Mark did not have the opportunity to play football, so he is envious of the boys in his hometown that now get the chance to participate in this sport. He says he lives vicariously through them.
Mark's most memorable season thus far is the first year the team went to state. He also stated the worst weather he has ever witnessed at a game was played at the West Prairie field during a playoff game against Carthage. It was 20 below and very windy.
When Mark's not announcing for our favorite team, he works as the Dean of Occupational Programs for Carl Sandburg College. He also enjoys boating, woodworking and hunting.
Mark does an excellent job as our announcer. The football games just would not be the same without his voice.