Springfield MO Radio: KWTO To Carry ESPN Radio

On Jan. 1 as KWTO 98.7 FM will switch to ESPN Radio after more than a decade as a Fox Sports Radio affiliate.

ESPN Radio will move from its location at the Clear Channel Communications' KGMY 1400 AM. The network features the popular Mike & Mike in the Morning program from 5-9 a.m.

KWTO FM, known as "Jock 98.7," will continue to air two long-running local-based programs — the Sports Reporters with Ned Reynolds from 9-11 a.m. and Sports Talk with Art Hains from 4-6 p.m.

"We are proud to be able to reward our loyal listeners by adding the ESPN Radio affiliation to the Jock," Ken Meyer, president of Meyer Communications, said. "By adding ESPN to our 100,000-watt signal, we are greatly increasing the coverage area for area sports fans."

Among the syndicated programs that 98.7 no longer will carry are the Jim Rome Show, s midday staple of the station for more than a decade, and the Dan Patrick Show, which has aired since earlier this year. Also going away is the non-sports syndicated program Imus in the Morning, on 98.7 since the late 1990s.

KWTO 98.7 FM (100Kw) 60dBu Coverage

“This partnership was a no-brainer,” said Jeff Clinkingbeard, consultant for Meyer Communications, and broker of the new agreement. “The Meyer Communications family of stations, and especially The Jock 98.7 FM, has been dedicated for years in providing outstanding coverage and play by play of local collegiate and high school sports.

Adding the #1 brand in sports to complement our local coverage is a win for sports fans throughout the market.”

“We are proud to be able to reward our loyal listeners by adding the ESPN radio affiliation to the Jock,” said Ken Meyer, president of Meyer Communications. “By adding ESPN to our 100,000 watt signal, we are greatly increasing the coverage area for area sports fans. This is not only great for the fans, but for advertisers too. We will be creating an excellent opportunity for area businesses to reach out listeners".