A substitute teacher and die-hard Philadelphia Phillies fan, Lewis Kalb, recently experienced the thrill of a lifetime by announcing a portion of one of the team’s games.
Medford Lakes’ Voice Takes the Big Stage
Lewis Kalb, affectionately known as the “voice of Medford Lakes,” is no stranger to a microphone. The 73-year-old has been a substitute teacher and volunteer announcer for various local events, including recreational and middle school basketball games, canoe carnivals, and 5K runs.
Kalb’s lifelong passion for broadcasting was realized when he won a bid to call the third inning of a Philadelphia Phillies game against the Washington Nationals for 94 WIP Radio. “When you have something that’s a lifelong dream, and you get one shot at it, one inning, really, make the best of it,” Kalb said, expressing his enthusiasm for this unique opportunity.
A Dream Come True
Kalb’s preparation for this moment has been years in the making. He humorously likened his practice to those who sing in the shower, remarking, “I don’t have a good singing voice, but I might drive down the road and go, here is Bryce Harper, and the pitch. Swung on. Long drive to right. That one is gone.”
During the game, Kalb got to call a Bryce Harper at-bat, which resulted in a single. Although the Phillies did not score in the third inning, and ultimately lost the game 10-4, Kalb’s performance was well-received. Reflecting on the experience, he noted, “I like the way the inning concluded because it was with a strikeout. And I said something like, got him, strike three, and that’s it. The inning is over. And so, you know, we got to the break, and it went pretty well.”
A Local Legend
Despite the newfound fame and praise on social media, Kalb remains committed to his roots and the community of Medford Lakes. He cherishes the recognition but emphasizes the joy it brings to his local engagements. “All of this fame and publicity, anybody would appreciate it. But what I love most about it is when I go do a game now, that’s going to be Mr. Kalb, the Phillies announcer in the broadcast booth who’s doing my game. It’s just going to have more meaning. It’s going to be more special for all the great kids in our wonderful town,” he shared.
Lewis Kalb may have had his big-league moment, but for many in Medford Lakes, he will always be the voice that brings their hometown events to life.
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