Minneapolis – In a remarkable turn of events, Randy Shaver, the longtime television broadcaster known for his deep passion for high school football, has shown that retirement may not be his style. Just three months after hanging up his broadcasting hat, Shaver is found lively covering games across Minnesota on Friday nights.
“Look at me,” Shaver chuckled while driving north on Interstate 35 to yet another high school football matchup. “I’m retired, right? That’s what my wife says to me: ‘What are you doing?’” His playful admission shows that retirement hasn’t slowed him down at all.
While many would kick back and relax, Shaver is committed to promoting high school football. He has transformed his love for the sport into a series of projects. He launched the Shaver Prep Football Podcast, which can be found on popular streaming platforms, and hosts a pregame show called Game Night Live, streaming live from a featured game each week. He also dedicates time visiting numerous schools to conduct interviews and catch up with coaches.
His connection to high school football is so profound that he serves significantly as part of Tackle Cancer, a statewide fundraising initiative that honors Shaver’s journey as a cancer survivor. So far, this program has raised over $3.5 million since its inception in 2012, benefiting the Randy Shaver Cancer Research and Community Fund.
“That’s one reason why that relationship is so special for me,” Shaver said, referring to Tackle Cancer. His long-running Prep Sports Extra show has been a staple for many families, with high school highlights drawing viewers back week after week for 40 years, dating back to 1984. His enthusiasm for sports storytelling reflects his desire for high school football to feel as prominent as any major sporting event.
As Friday night lights flicker, Randy Shaver continues to play a vital role in the Minnesota high school football scene, proving that for him, retirement looks very much like dedication.
