“Voice of the Lions” retiring after 28 years

The “Voice of the Lions” for home football games is retiring at the end of this 2025 season.

Jim Sanford has announced the YHS home football games for some 28 years but has decided it is time to step aside for a younger voice. So the October 25 JV and varsity games vs. Incline will mark the end of his participation at the microphone.

“I want to thank the YHS administration and athletic directors over the years for allowing me to pursue a dream/passion as announcer for the home football games for nearly three  decades. I have truly enjoyed it and can only hope coaches, players and fans have appreciated the effort,” says Sanford.

“Lo and behold, I think it is time for me to step aside in favor of someone with younger eyes, a younger brain and a younger voice. I have to admit part of this decision comes from advancing age and health which make it more difficult these days to keep up with things,” he adds.

“I will always cherish serving as the “Voice of the Lions” – as a proud YHS Class of 1966 graduate who will forever bleed “Purple and White”.

“Those who have helped me in the enjoyable efforts over the years (special shout out to Carl Hakin my partner in crime for so many years) deserve a huge thank you from  me and since I cannot begin to name them all, I hope in some small way this message will suffice. Of course, I wish whoever is fortunate enough to take my place the very best. Have fun with it!”

Sanford has also served as the announcer for a variety of events in the local community over the years, such as the parades, etc., and hopes to continue that enjoyment if and when asked.