Martin named SIU broadcasting director

CARBONDALE – Southern Illinois University and LEARFIELD/Saluki Sports Properties, announced Friday the naming of Luke Martin. Martin will become 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. He would also produce 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. He also was the 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. 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.

“I won’t be filling his shoes, as only Mike could wear them”

Martin said it was an honor to be chosen to follow Reis. Reis stepped down from the broadcast chair last May after completing his 44th season of radio play-by-play.

“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 his career, I can’t wait to earn the respect and trust of Salukis everywhere.”

Martin and his broadcast resume

While living in Terre Haute, Martin served a stint as sports director at 1130 The Fan radio. In his time there, he would host 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 on a frequent basis.

As an undergrad at Ball State, he 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.”

LEARFIELD/Saluki Sports Propertiesmanage the SIU radio network and its multimedia rights.