The lights in the New Prague High School gym always seem a little brighter on game night. The air carries that familiar mix of floor wax and popcorn, and the bleachers hum with the restless energy of a town that lives for its basketball. But for many Trojans fans, the game doesn’t truly begin until a specific, resonant voice crackles over the PA system.
That voice belongs to Tom Wetschka.
Recently, Tom took his seat at the scorer’s table, adjusted his microphone, and reached a landmark that few in the world of high school sports ever touch: his 600th game as a basketball announcer. Six hundred games isn't just a number; it is a countless late nights, and a decade-spanning commitment to the student-athletes of New Prague Area Schools. From buzzer-beaters that shook the rafters to the quiet, hard-fought losses, Tom has been the steady narrator of Trojan history.
While the community knows him as the "Voice of the Trojans," his impact goes far deeper than the microphone. As a dedicated Assistant Principal, Tom’s relationship with the students isn't confined to the four quarters of a basketball game.
- Mentorship: He sees the players not just as jersey numbers, but as the students he guides through the hallways every day.
- Consistency: Whether he’s navigating administrative duties or announcing a starting lineup, his presence provides a sense of "home" for the New Prague faithful.
- Passion: His love for the sport is evident in every inflection. He doesn't just call the game; he celebrates the spirit of the community.
In an era where high school sports can sometimes feel transient, Tom Wetschka remains an anchor. His announcing has become a community staple—as much a part of the New Prague experience as the black and red colors of the uniforms. Fans look forward to his signature style, a blend of professional poise and genuine hometown pride that elevates the atmosphere of the gym.