Richmond, Va. – While calling a highlight of Auburn high school’s win over Twin Springs in the Class 1 State semifinals, Eagles post player Bryce Gill forcefully blocked a shot out of bounds, then shook his head in denial. Sports Director John Appicello delivered one of his signature sayings over the highlight -- “Outta my kitchen, I’m cookin’ Mama’s chili! "
Saturday, at the State Final in the Siegel Center, Auburn fans had the saying on banner in front of their cheering section, and shirts aplenty with the saying on them. Auburn’s boys team went on the capture the state championship over Washington & Lee 61-49.
“I’m honored, I’m humbled, but most importantly, a group of great kids won the title, and they get to celebrate with a proud community in Riner,” Appicello said.
Appicello says he’s been talking ‘Mama’s chili’ since sometime in the 1990′s. The WSLS-10 Sports Director is entering his 16th year covering sports in Roanoke at the NBC affiliate.