Scott Van Pelt is one of the most recognizable names in sports broadcasting. He has established himself as one of ESPN’s most identifiable voices thanks to his perceptive commentary, captivating demeanor, and the legendary SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt. However, Van Pelt’s journey started right here in Montgomery County, Maryland, before he ever made it to the national scene.
Van Pelt has significant connections in the area, having been born and reared there. Before attending the University of Maryland, he completed his education at Sherwood High School in Sandy Spring, Ridgeview Junior High School (now Middle School) in Gaithersburg, and Flower Valley Elementary School in Rockville.
In 1990, he started his broadcasting career locally at Washington, D.C.’s WTTG-TV, also called FOX5. In 1995, he went on to work as a studio host for Golf Central and other shows on the recently established Golf Channel. Van Pelt joined ESPN in 2001 and immediately became the network’s top golf correspondent and a well-known SportsCenter anchor.
His role grew beyond television over time. Before starting his own programs, The Scott Van Pelt Show and then SVP & Russillo, he co-hosted Tirico and Van Pelton on ESPN Radio. He started anchoring the late-night SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt alone in 2015, and since then, it has gained recognition for its distinctive viewpoint and hallmark features.
Presenting golf coverage of important events like the Masters and, more recently, taking over as host of Monday Night Countdown for the 2023–24 NFL season, Van Pelt is still a key role at ESPN. Even though Scott Van Pelt is now at the pinnacle of the sports media industry, his Montgomery County roots are still a proud part of his story and serve as a reminder that one of the most influential voices in sports came from humble beginnings.
