WSET Roanoke Sports Director Announces Retirement

“I come to work every day loving what I do,” said Dennis Carter, sports director of Sinclair’s ABC affiliate WSET Roanoke, Va. (DMA 69), sharing news of his retirement with his coworkers. “My family has generously let me live my passion, but now my passion is to spend more time with them. I will be stepping away from the sports desk at the end of this year,” he added.

“Dennis hates when we talk about it, but he’s a legend in the area,” said WSET News Director Scott Nichols. “When Dennis covers sporting events, the crowd cheers his name. I’ve not seen that anywhere else. I think that’s because, with Dennis, what you see is what you get: he loves the area, he’s a hard worker and he’s the nicest person you’ll ever meet.”

“Dennis is such a big part of our station’s DNA. He may be leaving us at the end of the year, but his influence and leadership will be a part of who we are as a news organization forever,” said General Manager George Kayes.

Carter made his emotional announcement to ABC13 viewers at the conclusion of the 6 p.m. newscast on Oct. 15.

“So now is the time for me to redirect time and energy to myself and my family. I’m excited about the future, but it’s going to be so tough leaving my family here at WSET.”

He thanked his viewers and coworkers for their support, reminding us all, he isn’t quite through yet. “It’s only October. You guys will have to put up with me another two and a half months. So we’ll try and finish strong.”

Now in his 37th year with WSET, the Danville native’s broadcasting career spans more than 40 years. Before joining ABC13 in 1983, Carter worked four years with WBTM-WAKG Radio in Danville. He also has newspaper writing experience with the Danville Register.