In August, two rich traditions came together as Fairfield Community Schools and Willie 103.5 Sports started a journey that will highlight student athletes and community events throughout the fall and winter months. It’s a move that solidifies Fairfield’s standing as one of the top corporations in the area, while allowing Willie 103.5 to get back in the business of carrying a local team on the air.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for us to tell our story,” said Fairfield Schools Director of Communications and Marketing Dean Huppert. When I was hired last March, Dr. Carrie Cannon, Superintendent of Fairfield Community Schools, wanted us to find a quality station that would align with our corporation’s values of excellence. Our plan was to showcase our outstanding events and give our students a professional venue to have a “live” hands-on experience. We wanted local sponsors to know that our students are trained and expected to live up to the professional standards already in place at Willie 103.5.”
Both sides agree that the plan for this is to be a long-term deal. Woody Zimmerman, Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of WAWC 103.5 and WRSW 107.3 said, "We are very excited about this opportunity to partner with Fairfield Jr/Sr High School and their media department, allowing students to learn about the broadcasting industry while delivering a professional product and highlighting Falcon Sports throughout the community. Fairfield has a long reputation of producing quality players and teams, and Willie 103.5 is proud to be the new home of Falcon Sports." Huppert said, “It’s a big deal for our fans to be able to find us on the FM station, and online during football and boys and girls basketball seasons.”
The first football game was on August 22nd with Fairfield against Goshen. Fairfield Seniors Garrett Lash and Joshua Polasky were on air. A week later, Abram Hattery was added to the broadcasts. Listeners can expect a pregame coaches show, play-by-play of the game, and a halftime show featuring employees and alums who have a positive impact on Fairfield Schools.
“Make no mistake,” said Huppert. “This is a big deal for our school. We all know how important Friday nights are. I’ve listened to 103.5 FM for years. Fairfield is on the rise, and this will help to take our academic, fine arts and sports programs to the next level.”