WKAR Sports Journalist William Szczesny Retires After 30 Years

Longtime sports reporter and anchor leaves legacy of award-winning coverage of Michigan State athletics.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:19pm

William Szczesny, a fixture in the WKAR Sports department for the past three decades, has announced his retirement effective immediately. Szczesny, who has been the lead sports anchor and reporter for the East Lansing, Michigan public radio station since 1996, is stepping down to spend more time with his family.

Why it matters

Szczesny's departure marks the end of an era for WKAR and Michigan State University sports fans, as he has been the authoritative voice covering Spartans athletics for a generation. His retirement will leave a significant void in the station's sports coverage and the local sports media landscape.

The details

During his tenure, Szczesny has covered numerous Big Ten championship teams and NCAA tournament runs for Michigan State basketball and football. He has won several state and regional awards for his play-by-play coverage and in-depth reporting. Szczesny began his career at WKAR in 1992 as a part-time sports reporter before being promoted to lead anchor in 1996.

  • Szczesny has worked at WKAR since 1992.
  • Szczesny has been the lead sports anchor and reporter since 1996.
  • Szczesny announced his retirement effective immediately on March 17, 2026.

The players

William Szczesny

A veteran sports journalist who has been the lead sports anchor and reporter for WKAR in East Lansing, Michigan for the past 30 years.

WKAR

A public radio station licensed to Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan, known for its comprehensive coverage of Michigan State athletics.

Michigan State University

A public research university located in East Lansing, Michigan, known for its successful NCAA Division I sports programs, especially in basketball and football.

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What they’re saying

“It's been an honor and a privilege to cover Michigan State sports for the past three decades. I'm grateful to the WKAR team and our loyal listeners for allowing me to do what I love.”

— William Szczesny

“William Szczesny has been the voice of Spartan sports for a generation. His dedication, expertise, and passion for Michigan State athletics will be deeply missed.”

— Debbie Brogger, WKAR Station Manager

What’s next

WKAR plans to conduct a nationwide search for Szczesny's replacement in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Szczesny's retirement marks the end of an era for WKAR and Michigan State sports fans, as he has been the authoritative voice covering Spartans athletics for the past 30 years. His award-winning coverage and dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the local sports media landscape.