Moving Ahead In The Action With . . . Quint Kessenich
As more live sports return to ESPN platforms, meet some of the people working to deliver these events to fans
This past weekend, the 20th anniversary season of Major League Lacrosse began on ESPN+ and ESPN2. A small number of commentators are on-site to cover and deliver the action to viewers at home, including longtime ESPN commentator Quint Kessenich.
A staple on ESPN’s lacrosse coverage, Kessenich is in Annapolis this week, calling MLL games from Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. He took Front Row through his preparation and what he’s looking forward to as sports return.
Coverage details are available here.
How have you prepared for the abbreviated season and games?
My preparation is parts video, lots of Google searches and reading, and plenty of conversations with players and coaches.
What are you looking forward to most about this season of MLL?
It’s the 20th anniversary of MLL. The players drive this product. They are exceptional players and young men who balance careers with family and their love of lacrosse. They are not playing for money or fame. It’s similar to the early days of the NFL or MLB.
What’s your approach to covering the sport safely?
My homework has been accomplished via Zoom, conference calls, or Instagram Messenger – where I’ve been able to gather information. At the venue, our booth is up top, and I’ll text coaches and players as needed. Our booth also has a giant shower curtain to separate announcer Joe Beninati and myself.
BIO BLAST
Name: Quint Kessenich
Hometown/Residence: Reisterstown, Md.
Role/Years at ESPN: First ESPN show in 1995. Analyst and reporter for a variety of sports.
Favorite Team: Baltimore Ravens
Favorite Athlete: Muhammad Ali
The thing I missed most about live sports was . . .: Adrenaline. Without the NCAA championships (wrestling and hockey) and nearly the entire spring lacrosse season I found myself missing the juice. The excitement of the arena and the pinnacle moments. The pandemic reminded me of how much energy I draw from these events.
The ESPN game/studio personality I want to see back in action most is . . .: Jason Benetti. He is my college football play-by-play man, an exceptional young announcer, and a caring teammate. He makes me laugh, and I’m eager to hopefully work this fall.
My favorite thing I watched on ESPN and/or ESPN+ since the middle of March was . . . : “The Last Dance” was outstanding, but “Be Water” has resonated strongly with me. As a former wrestler and lacrosse goalie, I find Bruce Lee to be a fascinating athlete/performer.
In the booth, play-by-play commentator Joe Beninati and analyst Quint Kessenich are separated by a shower curtain.
Sideline reporter Courtney Fallon practices safety guidelines as she interviews New York Lizards star Dylan Molloy.
The abbreviated MLL season is being played at Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, in Annapolis, Md.
