Beloved Cincinnati Sports Broadcaster Greg Hoard Passes Away at 73

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati broadcasting community is mourning the loss of former sports anchor Greg Hoard, who passed away on February 28, 2025, at the age of 73. Hoard was a beloved figure in local sports journalism, particularly recognized for his coverage of the Cincinnati Reds during their World Series championship season in 1990.

Hoard, a native of Blocher, Indiana, moved to Cincinnati in 1979, initially working as a sportswriter for the Cincinnati Post. He later took his talents to the Cincinnati Enquirer in 1984, where he gained prominence covering the Reds and the legendary Pete Rose.

“Greg was tenacious,” said Bill Thompson, a colleague at the Enquirer. “He could talk to anybody and was always breaking news. He was made for that job.” Hoard’s reporting during the investigation surrounding Pete Rose was particularly noted for its thoroughness.

In April 1990, after a successful stint as a sports writer, Hoard transitioned to television as a sports anchor at WLWT-TV, shortly before the Reds’ championship win. “Greg gave up a job he loved, and it just wasn’t about money,” said his friend Greg Noble. “Family was important to Greg.” Hoard left the Reds beat to spend more time with his family, including his wife, Cindy, and their children.

Hoard’s television career continued when he joined FOX19 NOW in 1993, where he became its first sports anchor. “He was a riot and set the groundwork for a different type of sportscast in Cincinnati,” said Tricia Macke, a FOX19 NOW reporter who worked with Hoard. “He will forever be remembered as one of the great sports reporters in Cincinnati.” Hoard remained at FOX19 until 2004, after which he returned to writing and editing for local magazines.

He authored several books, including biographies of radio humorist Gary Burbank and notable figures in Cincinnati sports. “He was a gifted writer,” recalled Ron “Rufus” Millennor, Hoard’s producer. “He was just a good man with a great sense of humor.”

As the news of his passing spread, many in the community shared their reflections on Hoard’s career and character. “He was the most authentic person I’ve worked with,” said Joe Danneman of FOX19 NOW. “He showed me that your best professional self is your authentic self.”

Hoard’s contributions to both newspaper and broadcast journalism helped shape the sports landscape in Cincinnati. His legacy will be remembered by colleagues, family, and fans alike. Funeral arrangements are forthcoming.