Bears announce Tim Sinclair as new public address announcer at Soldier Field

The Bears have found a new public address announcer.

Mahomet native Tim Sinclair will take over stadium announcing duties at Soldier Field this season, the team announced Monday. Sinclair assumes the role from Jim Riebandt, who served as Bears public address announcer for 38 seasons.

“I’ve been a fan since I was a kid and watched the Bears win the 1985 Super Bowl,” Sinclair said in a statement released by the team. “Now I get to be a fan with a microphone. Taking that seat at Soldier Field is an honor and a privilege, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Sinclair is heading into his seventh season announcing Chicago Fire soccer games and his 11th season announcing with the University of Illinois. He has also served two years with the Indiana Pacers in the NBA.

Sinclair has announced big-time events such as the 2020 NBA All-Star Weekend at the United Center in Chicago, numerous international soccer games at Soldier Field and the 2017 MLS All-Star game.

He is also the cohost of an afternoon lifestyle and entertainment show on WCIA in Champaign.

“Tim is an experienced professional who is extremely passionate about the Bears and will bring great energy to the stadium on game days,” Bears Director of Events & Entertainment Tanesha Wade said in a statement. “We look forward to working with Tim to kick off a new era at Soldier Field through this unique season and are excited to showcase his talents for our dedicated fans when they can safely return.”

Sinclair will announce home games at Soldier Field whether fans are present or not. The Bears are not planning on having fans in the stands for the foreseeable future.