Five Minnesota Thunder games to be broadcast

Minnesota Wild announcer Bob Kurtz will be the voice of the Minnesota Thunder pro soccer games.

By TIM HARLOW, Star Tribune

Last update: April 24, 2008 - 12:08 PM

There is a lot new with the Minnesota Thunder this year -- a new team logo, 13 new players on its roster, and a new deal that will allow soccer fans to listen to its games on the radio.

Clear Channel Radio announced today that Minnesota Wild announcer Bob Kurtz will do the play-by-play for five home games that will be broadcast on The Score (690 AM), beginning with the professional soccer team's home opener May 4 against the Rochester Rhinos.

"This agreement is a natural extension of our commitment to cover sports in the Twin Cities," said Chad Abbott, program director KFAN (1130 AM) and The Score. "We are pleased to help grow awareness of the Thunder and soccer in general in the Twin Cities."

In addition to May 4, other broadcasts include games June 14 against the Atlanta Silverbacks, July 20 against the Rhinos, July 27 against the Puerto Rico Islanders, and Aug. 10 against the Seattle Sounders.

The team plays its home games at James Griffin Stadium in St. Paul. The team opens its season tonight with a game in Portland, Ore. against the Timbers, followed by a road match Saturday against the Vancouver Whitecaps.