Before becoming the radio voice of his own Pacific Lutheran University football and basketball teams during his last two years of college, Trent Ling spent the two previous seasons as the voice of NCAA Division II powerhouse and 1976 basketball national champion University of Puget Sound.
“UPS went out on a limb and hired a cross-town-rival’s student to broadcast its football and basketball games,” Trent recalls. “Hired by the Loggers at age 19, I was already impartial but animated in my calls. The UPS gig was great. We traveled the entire Western and Midwestern United States, and those teams excelled at a high level of competition.”
One day, a fresh 21-year-old Trent received a commending letter from the University of Puget Sound President, Dr. Philip Phibbs. “Here was the UPS President sending his thankful letter to a kid living in a PLU dorm,” Trent laughs. “This just goes to show the incredible lengths and depths of support I have received through the years. For as much trouble as I have always caused, people in the order of Dr. Phibbs have always been just too good to me.”
President Phibb’s letter is reproduced below:
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This is cool. You made a mark on this man’s life; typical of you. I agree with Melvin, I’m amazed at how you (or any broadcaster) do play-by-play coverage. My brain doesn’t work that quickly. I think broadcasting was God letting you practice for a greater message one day…
Yes, I agree with Siauw–what a great example of gratitude from President Phibb; taking his time to recognize what you did. And I agree with what he wrote. UPS & PLU got talent! =)
Thanks Phil (late in the game). Effort is so inline with appreciation is so inline with gratitude is so inline with love is so inline with God. Thank you.
But can you dance? Seriously, you’ve made a lot happen with your opportunities in life and I look to do the same, even as late in the game as I am. Thanks for sharing!
I agree with Dr. Phibbs’ perception of how you cover sports events from the broadcasts you have uploaded to the website. Cool stuff, Brother :)!
Wow, what a great example of one who is grateful, Dr. Phillip Phibbs. No doubt, you’re “the lively” broadcaster he talked about. You can give us the clear picture/play by just listening to you in person or on audio. Thanks for sharing this letter with us.
See, I told you that you should pursue a career in broadcasting! You’ll probably end up there eventually anyway. We also loved ‘seeing’ the game through your broadcasts. What a nice letter.