Ray “Rabs” Warren calls it quits

Legendary Wide World of Sports commentator Ray “Rabs” Warren has announced he will be stepping away from calling live sport after 55 years. 

Making the announcement on Wednesday night’s 9News bulletin, the veteran commentator said he will remain an important member of the Wide World of Sports NRL production team, but will no longer be featured in live match commentary.

Warren said, “After talking with my family and calling rugby league and other sports for 55 years, I have decided my time in the commentary box is over. I will miss calling immensely but I think it’s time to move on with my 80th birthday only 12 months away.”

“I really want to thank everybody so much. All my workmates at Channel 9, Channel 10, Radio 2GB and where I got my start at Radio 2LF in Young, who each gave a youngster from Junee a chance to turn his dreams into reality. Hopefully my story will carry some inspiration into the lives of other young kids from the country.”

“To the game, the NRL and the players, for giving me the privilege of calling such a great product. And finally the viewers, for allowing me to share a little time in your living rooms since the early 1970s.”

Ray first made his way to TV 1974 with Channel 10 before joining Channel 9 in 1988 to call the Rugby League World Cup Final, launching an incredible career in rugby league commentary that led to him being titled as “The voice of rugby league” and honoured in the NRL Hall of Fame.

Nine CEO Mike Sneesby honoured Ray as the announcement was made, saying, “The great Ray Warren is synonymous with Nine and rugby league for fans, players and most of all everyone here at the Wide World of Sports. We are so pleased that he will remain an integral part of the team and thank him for his five decades of calling live sport.”

“We look forward to his insights, memories and character in our broadcast next week for Origin I and beyond. He brought the game to life for generations of fans in their loungerooms. You are the voice of rugby league, Rabs. Thank you.”

Image credits: Supplied