The retirement of a high-profile Iowa sports announcer could be delayed. Former University of Iowa football player and radio analyst Ed Podolak announced on January 14th that he was retiring from his job on the Hawkeye football broadcasts.
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Podalak said he had been considering retirement as his real estate business is in northern California, and the commute to the Midwest each weekend to do the games has been challenging.
But the announcement led to much speculation as it came after unflattering photos of Podolak celebrating at the January Outback Bowl had circulated on the internet. U-I Athletic Director Gary Barta said that he was “disappointed” with Podolak after the photos turned up.
Podolak has now released a statement saying after considerable deliberation with his family and close friends, Podolak has decided to seek professional treatment. Podolak’s statement says the people closest to him in his life have convinced him that treatment is in his best interest.
U-I athletic director Gary Barta also issued a statement saying he “wholeheartedly supports” Podolak’s decision to enter treatment. Barta says he talked with Podolak and says while Podolak has not idicated he will come out of retirement, the search for his replacement has been put on hold.