ESPN Celebrating 45-Year Anniversary, Bill Rasmussen Reflects on Launch

Posted Sep 7, 2024
ESPN is celebrating its 45-year anniversary this month, recognizing the launch of the network at 7 p.m. EST on Sept. 7, 1979. The idea to launch the 24/7 all-sports network came from Bill Rasmussen, former communications manager for the Hartford Whalers, and the vision was further expanded upon in discussions with his son Scott. (Barrett Sports Media)

Related: Other News

Dabo Swinney says Clemson focused on fixing mistakes, not on outside expectations
Clemson coach Dabo Swinney struck a familiar tone Wednesday at the ACC Football Kickoff, expressing confidence in his program's direction despite a disappointing 2025 season...
Thu Jul 16, 2026

'Business is business.' QB Darian Mensah describes his move from Duke to Miami
After an ACC championship at Duke, after being one of the nation’s passing leaders, quarterback Darien Mensah transferred to Miami in January and reportedly will...
Thu Jul 16, 2026

ACC implements new tiebreaker policy for football title game
After a five-way tie for second place put Duke in the ACC championship game over higher-ranked Miami last season, a new tiebreaker policy was announced...
Wed Jul 15, 2026

ACC football media days are here — five on-field questions for the 2026 season
So, college football is coming. Training camps begin later this month. This week, though, gives ACC coaches and players a chance to talk up their...
Wed Jul 15, 2026