In September, news broke that Detroit Tigers play-by-play man Mario Impemba and his partner Rod Allen had been involved in a physical altercation. The outcome was that both Impemba and Allen were relieved of their positions at Fox Sports Detroit.
http://gty.im/452330348
On Wednesday, Impemba broke his silence by posting a message on Twitter for his supporters.
“The last three months have been challenging for both myself and my family. I would like to thank the countless Tigers fans who have reached out to me to offer support. I would also like to thank my broadcasting colleagues who have provided both support and encouragement.
“It was always my intention to return to the Tigers booth in 2019, but that decision was out of my hands.
“As a native Detroiter, I grew up in this city and chose to raise my family here. I will always view Detroit as my home.
“I have spent 32 years building my professional reputation in broadcasting and stand by that reputation today. I truly appreciate the opportunity I had to broadcast for my home town team the last 17 seasons.
“I look forward to what the new year may bring and to my next opportunity. Again, to those that have reached out, thank you for all of your support.”
To all Tigers fans: pic.twitter.com/0OkfXzX5BM
— Mario Impemba (@mario_impemba) December 12, 2018
A day later, Fox Sports Detroit Senior VP/General Manager Greg Hammaren released the following statement regarding Impemba and Allen.
“Rod and Mario’s unique and enthusiastic approach to Tigers’ broadcasts have created many lasting memories for Tigers’ fans. We have appreciated their commitment to baseball in Detroit and wish them all the best in the future.”
Fox Sports Detroit SVP/GM Greg Hammaren's statement:
“Rod and Mario’s unique and enthusiastic approach to Tigers’ broadcasts have created many lasting memories for Tigers’ fans. We have appreciated their commitment to baseball in Detroit and wish them all the best in the future.” https://t.co/xocoiXhpK2— Bill Shea (@Bill_Shea19) December 13, 2018
BONUS CONTENT:
Dear Detroit Tigers, FSD: Please bring back Mario Impemba
Dear Detroit Tigers, FSD:
On behalf of many Detroit Tigers fans, I am writing to request that you please bring back Mario Impemba for the 2019 baseball season.
Late last season, you suspended Mario and his longtime broadcast partner Rod Allen following an altercation that took place in Chicago following a Tigers game against the White Sox. About a month later, you announced that both men had been relieved of their duties and that they would not be returning for the 2019 season.
Though I certainly respect your decision, I am hoping that you hear me out.
To read the rest of the letter, please click on the link below.
https://detroitsportsnation.com/detroit-tigers-news/ddrysdale/dear-detroit-tigers-fsd-please-bring-back-mario-impemba/12-2018/199251/
