WFAN’s Historic Closure: A Fond Farewell to Sports Radio

The world of sports broadcasting is changing, and the recent closure of WFAN’s iconic operation marks the end of an era. Peter Schwartz, a familiar voice on the airwaves, had the honor of delivering the station’s last “sports flash.”

The End of a Broadcasting Era

On Sunday evening transitioning into Monday morning, Schwartz, who has served WFAN since 2009, concluded his final update with a heartfelt delivery. This sports recap, which highlighted local teams like the New York Jets, Giants, and Islanders, was a cherished segment among listeners.

• Jets: Suffered a tough loss against the New England Patriots.
• Giants: Celebrated a victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.
• Islanders: Faced defeat at the hands of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Schwartz made a significant change during this final update—he omitted the customary reminder of a follow-up "flash" every hour, symbolizing the station’s last moment in radio history. “We live in a different world now,” he reflected, recognizing the evolution of sports media.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

In this emotional moment, Schwartz paid tribute to the history of sports broadcasting on WFAN. He expressed gratitude to the legendary voices who shaped his career.

"On behalf of every update anchor in the history of WFAN, that’s what’s happening, I’m Peter Schwartz,” he stated, signaling a poignant farewell to his listeners.

Remembering His Mentors

Schwartz acknowledged mentors like John Minko and Bob Heussler, drawing from their influence as he wrapped up this final segment:

• John Minko: A pivotal figure in Schwartz’s training.
• Bob Heussler: Contributed greatly to Schwartz’s broadcasting acumen.

Community Tribute: Connor Kasin

Amid the sports updates, another profound event unfolded in Massapequa. The community paid homage to Connor Kasin, a hockey star who tragically passed away in 2024 during a charity game. His memory is now immortalized in the Chiefs’ gym with his No. 37 jersey retired, sparking both tears and celebration.

Tribute Highlights

• Banner Unveiling: A commemoration hung in the gym ensures that Kasin’s spirit endures in every game played.
• Family Reflection: Kasin’s father expressed, “Nobody loved that school more than Connor. I tell you that is the perfect place for him.”

Hundreds gathered for the Connor Kasin Memorial Game, reinforcing the legacy of the kind-hearted athlete known for his unwavering support of his peers.

Reflecting on a Legacy

Peter Schwartz’s poignant farewell from WFAN and the touching tribute to Connor Kasin highlight the deep connections forged through sports. While WFAN moves into a new phase, the memories created within its walls will continue to inspire both listeners and players alike.

Why It Matters

• Connection to Community: These events underline the importance of local broadcasting in uniting communities around shared passions.
• Legacy and Remembrance: Honoring figures like Kasin ensures that their contributions live on, enriching the fabric of local sports culture.

The evolution of sports media will undoubtedly continue, but moments like these remind us of the irreplaceable charm of radio and the power of community remembrance.