Gopher tales from a voice of the U

Ray Christensen was the voice of Golden Gopher football for 50 seasons and men's basketball for 45 seasons.

January 31, 2006

Chances are that you know him best for his voice, which was a signature of men's football and basketball at the University of Minnesota for half a century. Ray Christensen was the play-by-play announcer for Golden Gopher football for 50 consecutive seasons and announced Gopher basketball for 45 straight seasons. And his recent book, Gopher Tales: Stories From All Eleven University of Minnesota Men's Sports, will be the topic of discussion at the next gathering of the Friends of Eastcliff Book Club on Thursday, February 2, at 7 p.m. at Eastcliff.

In the book, Christensen offers Gopher fans his unique insights into some of the most memorable moments in the history of Minnesota men's sports. You can relive the excitement, humor, and character of the Golden Gopher tradition as Christensen reflects on all 11 men's sports at the University of Minnesota. Christensen, who retired from the airwaves in 2001, is a U of M Alumni Service award-winner, as well as a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Friends of Eastcliff Book Club provides an opportunity for members of the University of Minnesota faculty, staff, alumni, and community to share literature and ideas at Eastcliff, the historic home of the University's president and family.

President Bob Bruininks and his wife Susan Hagstrum, with the support of the Friends of Eastcliff, have established the book club to showcase University of Minnesota authors who are faculty, staff, and alumni, or others who have a strong connection to the University.

You can join the Friends of Eastcliff and participate in the Friends of Eastcliff Book Club and other activities throughout the year for an annual membership fee of $100 for individuals or $150 per couple. Friends of Eastcliff works to raise funds to maintain, enhance, and preserve the historical residence and meeting place of the University of Minnesota.

Those interested in attending the event should call 612-627-6800 to reserve a seat, as seating is limited. You can find more information and join the book club online by visiting Friends of Eastcliff.