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Chepke’s query changed Balputnis’ career
By Greg Gulas
AUSTINTOWN
When Andris Balputnis first became a registered track and field official some 27 years ago, he started out like many of his colleagues in that he timed, worked field events and anything else just to ensure the success of a meet.
When former Fitch athletic director Gene Chepke asked him to fill in as announcer for an upcoming Optimist Meet, he had no idea his role would drastically change, taking a 180-degree turn to the finish line.
That was 1991 and while speaking to the Curbstone Coaches during their weekly Monday luncheon meeting at Luciano’s Restaurant, Balputnis said when he became an announcer his passion for the sport just got kicked up a notch.
“After working as public address announcer for Gene [Chepke], he suggested my name to others that had the same need and since that time I’ve worked quite a few other meets, as well as district, regional and state competitions,” Balputnis said. “In addition to high school, I’ve been asked to work college meets as well.”
Recently retired after spending 40 years in public education, Balputnis, a former high school director of athletics and assistant principal, has been the voice of the state track meet since 2001.
“The unique thing about being the public address announcer for the state track meet is that person also has to be a registered [Ohio High School Athletics Association] official,” he said. “I don’t believe that is a requirement for any other sport and it is stated right in the Federation rule book. We wear the same officials’ uniform as other meet officials, except at the state level where the OHSAA has special uniform requirements.”
To work the state meet you have to apply each January, and then are notified by March if you are selected.
When Balputnis receives official word that he will be returning, he begins his preparation in early May in order to give fans pertinent information about each team and individual champion.
“Track is a sport of statistics and in addition to giving information out about the many champions, we are constantly reminded to announce information regarding our many corporate sponsors,” he added.
In addition to his high school assignments, he has served as announcer for the Big Ten Conference track and field championships, Midwest Meet of Champions, NCAA Division III track championships, Jesse Owens Track and Field Classic, Presidents’ Athletic Conference track championships as well as the Horizon League indoor and outdoor championships.
On Nov. 2, he’ll add a first to his lengthy resume when he serves as public address announcer for the Horizon League cross country championships, which will be held at Boardman High School.
Next week, YSU sports information director Trevor Parks will serve as guest speaker.