Lesley Candace Visser, known widely as Lesley Visser, is an iconic figure in American sports journalism. Born on September 11, 1953, in Quincy, Massachusetts, Visser has left an indelible mark on the industry, breaking barriers and setting new standards for excellence. With an illustrious career spanning decades, she holds the distinction of being the only sportscaster to have covered a remarkable array of sporting events. Let’s delve into the life and achievements of this trailblazing journalist.
Lesley Visser Early Life and Education
Growing up in Quincy, Massachusetts, Visser’s love for sports was evident from a young age. While other girls donned costumes of fictional characters, Visser chose to emulate her sports heroes. From the age of ten, she harbored a dream of becoming a sportswriter, even though it was a field predominantly dominated by men. Encouraged by her parents, who instilled in her the belief that sometimes you have to forge ahead despite the odds, Visser pursued her passion.
After completing her high school education in South Hadley, she enrolled at Boston College, majoring in English, laying the foundation for her future in sports journalism.
Lesley Visser Career Milestones
Visser’s journey into sports journalism was propelled by a Carnegie Foundation grant in 1974, which granted her a position as a sportswriter at The Boston Globe. Over the course of 14 years, she covered an extensive range of sports, from college basketball to the NBA, Major League Baseball, tennis, college football, golf, and horse racing.
In 1976, Visser made history as the first female NFL beat writer, covering the New England Patriots. Her tenure at The Boston Globe, from 1975 to 1980, led to the recognition of their sports section as the finest in its time by Sports Illustrated in 2009.
In January 1981, Visser gained national attention with her coverage of the 1978-79 Boston College basketball point-shaving scandal. Although she was initially misinformed, her dedication to investigative journalism remained unwavering.
Lesley Visser Breaking Barriers
Visser’s pioneering spirit led her to CBS, where she joined part-time in 1984 and transitioned to full-time work in 1987. Her assignments included prestigious events such as the NBA Finals, Final Four, World Series, U.S. Open, and the Olympics. Notably, in 1990, Visser became a regular on The NFL Today show, marking a historic milestone for female sports commentators.
In 1992, she shattered another glass ceiling, becoming the first and only female sportscaster to oversee the Super Bowl Trophy presentation.
Lesley Visser Personal Life and Legacy
Visser’s personal life is a testament to her dedication to sports. Her first marriage was to sportscaster Dick Stockton, a union that lasted from 1983 to 2010. She later found love again and married businessman and former Harvard basketball captain, Bob Kanuth, in July 2011.
Lesley Visser’s indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to sports journalism have paved the way for future generations of female sportscasters. Her contributions to the industry are immeasurable, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire.
FAQs
- What is Lesley Visser’s net worth? Lesley Visser, a prominent figure in sports journalism, has an estimated net worth of $11 million.
- What are some of Lesley Visser’s career highlights? Lesley Visser’s illustrious career includes covering events like the NBA Finals, Final Four, World Series, U.S. Open, and the Olympics. She also holds the distinction of being the first female NFL commentator on television.
- Who was Lesley Visser married to? Lesley Visser was initially married to sportscaster Dick Stockton from 1983 to 2010. She later married businessman and former Harvard basketball captain Bob Kanuth in July 2011.
