MONTICELLO – Jimmy Sledge, the radio voice of University of Arkansas at Monticello athletics, has been announced as the 2025 recipient of the Spirit Award, presented annually at the UAM Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet. This year’s banquet is scheduled for 6 p.m. Oct. 2 at the University Center Green Room.
Introduced in 2006, the UAM Spirit Award is presented to individuals who demonstrate exceptional support and unwavering dedication to UAM’s athletic programs. This honor recognizes those who go above and beyond for UAM’s student-athletes, teams, and department. According to a news release, the recipient embodies the heart and soul of UAM Athletics: “… Through every win, every loss, every rain delay, and every nail-biting moment, they are there. They truly bleed green and white.”
Sledge, a 1983 graduate of UAM, began broadcasting for UAM Athletics in 2000 as the radio voice of the Boll Weevils and Cotton Blossoms. He provides play-by-play and color commentary for Boll Weevil football, baseball, and basketball, as well as Blossom basketball and softball.
Prior to every Boll Weevil football game, Sledge interviews Coach and Athletic Director Hud Jackson to preview the upcoming matchup. After each game, regardless of the sport, he conducts in-depth postgame interviews with coaches, capturing their perspectives on both wins and losses, as well as game highlights.
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Most recently, Sledge provided game day and play-by-play coverage for the Weevils baseball team during their 2025 NCAA Central Regional appearance in Mankato, Minn.
“We are truly honored that Jimmy Sledge is going to be the spirit award winner this year for athletics,” Jackson said. “Jimmy has been a true supporter of our athletic department, making many sacrifices to bring the Weevils and Blossoms to the living rooms of many UAM fans across the country. Jimmy is a friend, and he is very passionate about athletics at our great university.”