Longtime Nebraska broadcaster Larry Cotnoir was surprised with the Nebraska Broadcasters Association’s Career Achievement Award during halftime of Saturday afternoon’s University of Nebraska-Kearney football game against Northwest Missouri State.
Cotnoir, who provides color commentary alongside Jayson Jorgensen for UNK home football games on KRVN, was unaware of the recognition until KCNI/KBBN Station Manager and NBA board member Jeremy Shipe took a mic at halftime to present the surprise.
Cotnoir’s broadcasting career has included stops at KCNI/KBBN in Broken Bow, KUVR in Holdrege, KKAN/KQMA in Phillipsburg, Kansas, KZMC in McCook, and KAMI/KOOC in Cozad. His roles have included announcing, sports play-by-play, program direction, sales, and advertising writing and production. He has also contributed to Nebraska’s newspaper industry throughout his career.
Cotnoir returned to KCNI/KBBN in 2005 and has continued working part time at the station since 2007. His work in sports broadcasting has connected him with schools, coaches, athletes, and listeners across Nebraska, with generations of fans becoming familiar with his voice and presence at high school sporting events.
During his remarks, Shipe recognized Cotnoir’s commitment to the craft and the impact he has had on those who have worked alongside him.
“The memories mean a lot to me, but they’re just a small piece of what Larry has meant to broadcasters, student athletes, and listeners across Nebraska. Lots of people have their own memories with Larry,” said Shipe.
NBA President and Executive Director Jim Timm spoke to Cotnoir’s long term commitment to the industry and the importance of local broadcasters serving their communities.
Timm then presented Cotnoir with the award, which recognizes NBA member station personnel who have demonstrated a significant, long term commitment to radio and/or television broadcasting in the state. Nominees must have worked in Nebraska broadcasting for at least 25 years.
