Former WHIZ Sports Anchor To Work MLS Cup Sunday

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- The Columbus Crew and Portland Timbers will go toe to toe at MAPFRE Stadium on Sunday for the MLS cup. And a familiar voice to Southeastern Ohio couldn’t be more excited.

Russ Thaler got his very first taste in front of the camera here at WHIZ in the mid 90’s. Since his career at WHIZ he has worked in Lincoln Nebraska, Washington DC and nationally for FOX, NBC, and Major League Soccer.

“It’s amazing to be back because this is where it all begin” Russ Thaler said. “This is where I first realized that not only do I love doing television but that I can do TV. My confidence grew so much with the two years I was at WHIZ.”

Thaler will serve as commentator for Sunday’s match up. Thaler said he’s thankful for his Zanesville roots.

“I’ve been really fortunate in this industry to do a lot that I never dreamed of,” Russ Thaler said. “But it all started here. And I think the people in the building and in this town should be proud of the fact that you can start here and fulfill so many of their dreams. I’m really appreciative of what’s come from here.”

Thaler will be posting actively on mlssoccer.com. The game is at 4 o clock Sunday on ESPN.