Today's interviewee is Durwood Dominy, the play-by-play announcer for Colquitt County football on WMTM 93.9.-FM (aka Cruisin' 94) for more than 30 seasons and more recently for Colquitt's NFHS Network live streams. Dominy, known for his distinctive Southern voice and clear calls, has been a businessmen and active citizen in Moultrie since the 1970s. He was inducted into the Colquitt County Sports Hall of Fame in 2018.
Durwood Dominy, Colquitt County play-by-play announcer
1. How did you get started as a play-by-play man for the Packers? "Sitting at my desk one morning, I got a call from a local radio station manager who asked me about broadcasting football games on their station. I told him I was flattered. Even though I had done some radio and TV commercials, I had never played football or seen a game until I was 21. I grew up in Twiggs County, a small school that did not have a football program. I also told him one of my best friends was Donnie Turner, who owned another station in town [WMTM 100,000 watts] and I needed to talk with him before I made a decision. When I called him, he said he never dreamed I would consider broadcasting but to call the other station back and tell them I would be broadcasting on WMTM next Friday night. The other station graciously understood, and the next Friday night I was behind the mic, and here we are 31 years later. I've only missed one game, when I went with the Atlanta Hawks to London to play the Orlando Magic."
2. What do you enjoy most about it? What are some of the joys you get? "I really enjoy what I do. I truly see it as a ministry. God has blessed me and opened some doors for me to give some enjoyment to those that can't get out on Friday nights to see the game live. I certainly could not do it alone and am blessed to have Jim Turner and Darrell Strange along by my side. I have so many people that come up and talk about games they have heard and how much they enjoyed it and that it means so much. I had one man, Mr. Paul Glass, who called me one day at work and talked about an hour about the Packers. He knew every player and everything about the games. After we finished talking, I asked him to come up to the press box at the next game so I could meet him. His answer was 'I've never seen a football game. I'm blind, but I have seen every play from the 50-yard line through your voice.' I got cold chills, and that's why I say it's a ministry and that's my payback. I have met some super people, coaches and players and watched them mature and see what football taught them."
3. It was an eventful offseason for Colquitt County football. How has the fan base dealt with the unexpected coaching transition? "We had a change in head coaches this year from Rush Propst, who was extremely successful in wins, championships and numerous players entering college. Justin Rogers, who came from Jones County, has replaced Rush and has come in hitting the ground hard. He only came in April but has done a good job organizing and getting his coaching style in place and has been very successful on the football field. We have had numerous coaches since I have been broadcasting, and I liked them all and consider them all friends. All had different coaching styles but loved coaching young men. Our community has always been a football-loving county and supported our athletes and all coaches and will continue to do so now and in the future. Go Pack!"
4. What are the most memorable moments or games you've broadcast? Do you have a single favorite? "You know, I am asked all the time, 'Who's your favorite payer, favorite team or favorite play?' Over 31 years, there is not room enough to tell you all the exciting plays and players we have had. Obviously, the 1994 team that won the state championship, going undefeated, is a highlight. They had a great defense, and the offense got it done on their side of the ball. Also going 30-0 over two seasons in 2014-2015 is certainly a standout. Any time you win 30 in a row and two state championships, that's big time. I am most proud of athletes who have had the opportunity to further their education and football abilities at the next level. Football, as well as all other sports, teaches so much about the game of life. We have been paying football in Colquitt County since 1913 - 106 years - and it continues to blossom. Our facilities with our indoor facility, dining and weight room speak volumes about our community. It will continue long after my time, but it certainly is a great ride."
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