06/23/2026
Cheers to our friend the Sarge!! If you've been to or have been watching the World Cup games in Foxboro, you've probably heard the familiar voice of Needham Channel alum and NHS graduate Mike Riley as the Public Address Announcer! Mike has been on the mic for many events there for years, but told us Tuesday morning: "Announcing the FIFA World Cup games have been amazing! Having done PA Announcing since my days on the hill at Needham High for football it’s surreal to think about me doing this on a global stage. I’ve been fortunate to be game day voice of Gillette for the last nine years (Boston for the next 2 weeks!). It's different at the World Cup. Usually Patriots games I arrive no later than 4 hours before kickoff and Revs no later than 3 hours. For match days with FIFA it’s been 7 hours before the match. The protocol that goes into it is so precise from start to finish with meetings and rehearsals leading up to match days - it almost feels like a full time job! But it’s been worth it working with a fantastic staff at FIFA and Kraft sports who are essentially my second family. In addition, I wouldn’t be doing this without the help and guidance for my many years of volunteering at the Needham Channel! And that’s a fact, Jack!!!" Thanks to Mike for sending us these pics from the games, but be sure to swipe through to hear him announce the Scotland anthem! Also, after a one year absence, Mike will be returning to our live Needham 4th of July Parade coverage, co-hosting with Colleen Lavery once again, so be sure to tune in at 9:30am on-air, streaming on needhamchannel.org, Roku and our TNC YouTube Channel!!
