If you’re a fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, you’ve likely heard the smooth, familiar voice that has painted the picture of the action on the field for decades. That voice belongs to Dale Carter, a long-standing Chiefs announcer and trusted radio personality in Kansas City. But now, after years of dedication to the mic and the team he loves, Dale Carter has officially announced his retirement—and it’s the end of an unforgettable era. In this article, we’ll look back on Dale Carter’s career, explore how his voice became synonymous with Chiefs football, share some behind-the-scenes stories, and guide you through what this means for fans and the broadcasting team moving forward.
Who is Dale Carter?
Before diving into his retirement, let’s start by answering a basic question for anyone new to the story: Who is Dale Carter?
Dale Carter is a longtime sports radio broadcaster and DJ, most famously known as the public address announcer for the Kansas City Chiefs. Over the years, Carter’s deep, energetic voice became a staple at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, bringing life to every home game.
But Carter wasn’t just a voice on Sundays—he was a daily presence in the lives of Kansas City residents, working for decades on local radio stations like KFKF and KCMO-FM. His warm delivery and authentic love for music and sports made him one of the most respected broadcasters in the region.
The Announcement: Dale Carter’s Retirement
The news broke quietly but hit hard: Dale Carter is stepping away from the mic. He made the announcement toward the end of the 2023–2024 NFL season, marking the conclusion of a career that spanned over two decades with the Kansas City Chiefs.
“It’s time,” Carter said during his heartfelt farewell. “This has been one of the greatest honors of my life, but I’m ready to start a new chapter and enjoy some peace and quiet.”
For many fans, it felt like losing a part of the game-day tradition. From the iconic “TOUCHDOWN, KAN-SAS CITY!” calls to his booming introductions of players as they ran onto the field, Dale Carter’s retirement leaves a void that won’t be easy to fill.
A Look Back: Dale Carter’s Journey with the Chiefs
To understand why this moment is so meaningful, let’s rewind the clock and look at how Dale Carter became a Kansas City icon.
Starting in Radio
Dale got his start in radio in the 1980s, cutting his teeth on country stations and community radio programs. Back then, he wasn’t yet associated with the Kansas City Chiefs, but he already had something special—an unmistakable voice, genuine charisma, and a passion for connecting with listeners.
Joining the Chiefs Family
In the early 2000s, Dale stepped into a new role that would define his career: public address announcer for the Kansas City Chiefs. Week after week, season after season, he brought energy to Arrowhead. Rain or shine, win or lose, his voice never faltered.
One fan remembers, “It didn’t feel like a Chiefs game until Dale got on the mic. His voice just got you pumped!”
The Voice of Arrowhead
There’s no denying it—Dale Carter’s voice is iconic.
During pregame intros, Carter’s announcements felt like a Hollywood production. When the Chiefs scored, he made sure the entire stadium roared with pride. And when moments got tough, he helped keep the spirit alive.
His presence wasn’t limited to the stadium either. Dale also lent his voice to radio ads, fan events, and community fundraisers. He was more than a Chiefs announcer—he was part of Kansas City’s identity.
More Than a Voice: A Kansas City Treasure
Many don’t know this, but Dale was also deeply involved in charity work. He emceed countless events, supported local nonprofits, and even helped organize toy drives during the holidays.
In fact, during one holiday season, a young Chiefs fan named Ethan, who had lost his father, received a surprise visit at his school. Along with the Chiefs’ mascot, it was Dale Carter who handed Ethan a game ball and invited him to a game. “His eyes lit up,” Carter later said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
Why He’s Retiring Now
So why now? Why is Dale Carter retiring when the Chiefs are still riding high in the league?
Simply put—it’s about family, health, and rest. Dale has mentioned wanting to spend more time with his grandchildren, travel with his wife, and enjoy the quieter things in life.
“Being the Chiefs announcer is a huge commitment,” he explained. “You’re there every game, hours before kickoff. You’re rehearsing names, syncing with production teams, and living on adrenaline. After all these years, it’s time to slow down.”
Step-by-Step: What Happens After a Stadium Announcer Retires?
For fans wondering what happens next, here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how transitions like this usually unfold:
Step 1: Official Announcement
- The broadcaster or team makes a formal statement.
- Media outlets share the news with fans.
Step 2: Farewell Tribute
- Often, the team will hold an event or ceremony during a home game.
- Fans get a chance to say goodbye and show appreciation.
Step 3: Search for a Successor
- The team begins a search for a new announcer.
- Auditions may take place behind closed doors or even publicly.
Step 4: Training and Transition
- The new announcer may shadow the outgoing voice for a few games.
- Technical training ensures smooth coordination with game-day operations.
Step 5: New Era Begins
- The new voice takes over, but always with respect to the legacy before them.
The Kansas City Chiefs are currently navigating this very process—and whoever steps into Dale’s shoes has big ones to fill.
What This Means for Fans
Change is never easy, especially when it involves something as personal as the voice that guides your game-day experience. But fans can take comfort in the fact that Dale Carter is leaving on his own terms, with dignity and deep gratitude from the entire Chiefs Kingdom.
He may be stepping away from the microphone, but the echoes of his voice will linger every time fans hear that first kickoff or chant “CHIEFS!”
Legacy That Lasts: What Dale Carter Taught Us
Beyond his technical skill and timing, Dale Carter’s retirement reminds us of something deeper—the value of consistency, heart, and human connection.
He showed up. Every game. Every season. No drama. No ego. Just pure dedication to the team and the fans.
That’s a rare thing in today’s fast-moving world of entertainment and sports media. Dale Carter showed us that being the voice of the Chiefs isn’t just about calling plays—it’s about becoming part of a family, a city, and a legacy.
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Final Thoughts: Thank You, Dale
To the man behind the mic, thank you.
Thank you for the passion, the professionalism, and the powerful voice that carried us through unforgettable moments—from regular-season battles to Super Bowl dreams.
Though Dale Carter’s retirement marks the end of a chapter, his impact will continue for years to come. And somewhere, maybe at home with his grandkids, he’ll still say, just for fun: