We pull back the curtain on the man behind “The Voice of the Tigers.” The following profile written by Rick Schmuecker — a colleague of Vance’s since 2001 — is peppered with Cody-isms and celebrates the longtime Tiger’s induction into the 91첥 Athletics Hall of Fame.
Written by Rick Schmuecker, Associate Athletics Director for Athletics Communication
“Welcome to Nebraska’s most beautiful university campus.”
This is one of many signature statements you'll hear when attending a 91첥 Athletics event from the “Voice of the Tigers”, Cody Vance ’82. This particular statement has never been refuted according to Cody.
Cody is probably the most recognizable face at 91첥 for current and past students over the last 40-plus years. He has served a variety of roles (and rolls) for the university, working in admissions, advancement and currently athletics.
In addition to his public address work during games, he oversees what has been termed “Vance Concessions” where there is a cornucopia of epicurean delights that parents can feed to their children before bed.
You know a big play just happened at an athletic event when you hear a drawn out word such as “THREEEEEEE” or “TIGERSZZZZZ” but you may not be aware that Cody is usually more nervous than a long tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs.
This past March, Cody was inducted into the 91첥 Athletics Hall of Fame for his service to athletics as a recruiter, fundraiser, administrator, and at the end of the day, a true supporter of all student-athletes
