Saints PA announcer Romig retiring

The New Orleans Saints franchise has announced  that one of its familiar voices and faces will
be calling it quits following Friday night's preseason game against the Oakland Raiders in
the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Eighty-three year-old public address announcer Jerry Romig
has decided to hang it up after 44 years of calling Saints' football at Tulane Stadium and
in the Dome. The well-respected and well-liked voice of the Saints has called 445 games in his
illustrious career and hasn't missed calling a Saints home game during that time. The Black and
Gold faithful have thrived on hearing some of his trademark calls, like "First Down, Saints."
The Saints' organization will honor Jerry Romig presenting him with a Super Bowl XLIV ring
during pregame ceremonies at the season opener Sept. 8 in the Dome, hosting the Atlanta
Falcons.
Owner Tom Benson said, "Jerry has been a part of the Saints' family since our third season and we
couldn't be more grateful for his passion and love for the Saints as our PA announcer."
The Romig tradition will continue as his son, Mark, will take over his dad's announcing duties
in the season opener. Mr. Benson went on to say, "We are thrilled his
son, Mark, will carry on the Romig torch as our fans have an incredible affection for Jerry and
is trademark call during games," Mr. Benson said.
Turning to the Saints,
Special teams player Courtney Robey injured his toe in yesterday's practice session. A number of
other Saints' players most notably receiver Marques Colston and corner back Chris Carr were
held out of practice yesterday.
On a positive note, seven-year veteran running back Pierre Thomas returned to the practice
field after missing nearly a week with an undisclosed injury. Thomas had limited activity
during yesterday's practice session as the Saints prepare to host the Oakland Raiders
Friday night in the Dome, coming off their exhibition opening 17-13 victory over Kansas
City.
The Saints' injury picture is starting to clear up a bit. Saints' linebacker Martez Wilson
coming back from a strained left elbow will be wearing a brace throughout the season. Wilson
along with linebacker Junior Galette dressed out for the first time since their injuries and were
in pads, which is a positive look for the Saints' defense in the new 3-4 scheme. Galette didn't
take part in the drills, but hopes to return to the lineup next week.