So, I know that I'm not the first one to do this...

Sep 25, 2011, 12:58 PM

and I also know that it's ultimately a waste of time that will gain no traction, but after glowing in the win yesterday...as always ESPN started getting under my skin. I couldn't take it...here is the result I sent to ESPN.

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing to express some ongoing frustrations concerning the announcing/commentating/writing that happened yesterday, and continues to happen year after year. I usually am not one to take the time to write a letter, but I am truly disappointed in some of the efforts by your staff, particularly as it relates to the Clemson Tigers.

As an alumni of Clemson University, I am truly passionate about Clemson Athletics, and specifically enamored with our rich tradition. I believe, for all college athletics, this is something that truly sets it apart. In the past ESPN has done a terrific job covering things such as Howard's Rock and "Running Down the Hill - The Most Exciting 25 Seconds in College Football." When Gameday came to Clemson in 2006 the atmosphere was electric, and your coverage team was phenomenal. Even as recently as last week versus Auburn, Urban Meyer did an outstanding job in the booth.

However, I am continually aggrivated, and ultimately distracted from my programming, by two things:

1: Clemson is pronounced EXACTLY how it is spelled. There is not a 'Z' or a 'P' in the name (ie. ClemPson/ClemZIN).

2: Clemson is the ONLY Division 1A school that still allows their fans to come onto the field after a football game. Our fans always do it...WIN OR LOSE. While it may be more excitable after a win, it ALWAYS happens, and should not be considered as our fans "rushing the field after a 'mediocre' win."

After yesterday's great win by our football team I went onto the field, rubbed the rock and left the stadium. Immediately after I checked ESPN Mobile for a post game recap, only to find the writer literally berating our team for "rushing the field like we just won the National Title." I noticed this was changed, but also heard one of the announcers on College Football Final taking another jab at us for "two weeks of field rushes."

As it relates to the pronunciation of our school's name, well honestly it's just embarrassing. Imagine your announcers mispronouncing Oklahoma, Alabama, Nebraska or any other school's name. How is this continually allowed to happen?

All I ask is that someone does a little research before incorrectly mocking our school on national television. You are THE respected authority in sports reporting, and I expect better. Schools rely on you as their outlet to the nation. After many years of broadcasting/coverage I am blown away when I continue to see these two things so blatantly wrong and freely broadcasted. Many announcers are guilty over the years and I understand that not every announcing team can have a Brent Musburger/Kirk Herbstreit or Brad Nessler/Todd Blackledge combo. But every announcing team should take pride in their broadcast and show enough respect to give the school it's due diligence.

I would truly appreciate your future correction in this matter. Thank you very much for your time and all you do. Here's to a great finish to the best time of year, College Football season. GO TIGERS!

Regards,

Philip C. Kidd

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So, I know that I'm not the first one to do this...

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