What Legacy Did Long-Time Sportswriter Bruce Berlet Leave Behind?

Bruce Berlet, a revered sports journalist known for his extensive coverage of golf, women's basketball, and hockey, passed away at the age of 77. His career spanned 38 years at The Courant, where he became a prominent figure in sports journalism in Connecticut.

Last updated: 08 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Bruce Berlet was a distinguished sports journalist with a 38-year tenure at The Courant.
• He covered a variety of sports, including golf, women's basketball, and hockey.
• Berlet was inducted into the Connecticut Golf Hall of Fame in 2009.
• He received numerous awards for his contributions to sports journalism.
• Berlet was known for his passion for golf and his friendly personality.
• He is survived by his wife Nancy, daughter Brooke, and grandson Ryan.

Early Life and Career

Bruce Berlet was born in Baltimore and grew up in Litchfield, Connecticut. He excelled in sports during his high school years, playing on championship teams in both basketball and soccer at Litchfield High School. Following his graduation, he attended the University of Connecticut (UConn), where he began to develop his passion for journalism.

In 1970, shortly after completing his studies, Berlet joined The Courant. His early assignments included covering the New England Whalers, a role he maintained as the team transitioned to the NHL in 1979. Berlet’s in-depth knowledge of hockey and his engaging writing style quickly established him as a respected voice in the sport.

Women's Basketball Pioneer

Berlet was one of the first sports writers to focus exclusively on women's basketball, a significant commitment at a time when the sport was still gaining traction. He played a pivotal role in chronicling the UConn women’s basketball team, particularly during their historic 1995 championship season. His coverage helped elevate the profile of women’s basketball and contributed to the sport's growing popularity.

A Love for Golf

Despite his diverse sports coverage, Bruce Berlet was perhaps best known for his passion for golf. His technical expertise and encyclopedic knowledge of the sport's history made him a sought-after commentator. Berlet’s friendly personality and ability to connect with athletes and fans alike endeared him to the golfing community.

He was a regular presence at various golf events, especially the Greater Hartford Open, now known as The Travelers Championship. Berlet covered the tournament for an impressive 50 consecutive years, until the COVID-19 pandemic impacted event attendance and press credentials. However, he returned to the TPC River Highlands as soon as it was feasible.

Notable Achievements

Throughout his career, Berlet covered an array of prestigious golf events, including:

• 33 Masters tournaments
• 15 U.S. Opens
• Three PGA Championships
• Three Ryder Cup matches

His interactions with legendary golfers were numerous. Berlet had the unique opportunity to play six holes with the iconic Arnold Palmer and interviewed a teenage Tiger Woods. His ability to connect with players and share their stories was a hallmark of his writing.

In recognition of his contributions to sports journalism, Berlet received numerous awards at both the state and national levels. Notably, his feature on golfer John Daly earned top honours from the Golf Writers Association of America, highlighting his ability to tell compelling stories within the world of sports.

Legacy and Tributes

In 2009, Bruce Berlet was inducted into the Connecticut Golf Hall of Fame, a testament to his influence and dedication to the sport. His plaque at the Hall of Fame reflects the passion and commitment he had for golf and those who played it, stating, “His work informed state golfers and enhanced their enjoyment of the game for so long, he belongs in the Connecticut Golf Hall of Fame.”

Berlet's death has elicited tributes from colleagues, friends, and the sporting community, all of whom recognise his significant impact on sports journalism and the lives he touched throughout his career. His legacy is marked by his love for sports, particularly golf, and his remarkable ability to convey that passion through his writing.

Personal Life

Bruce Berlet was a long-time resident of Glastonbury, Connecticut. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, who broke barriers as the first female sports writer for The Courant, their daughter Brooke, and grandson Ryan. Together, they shared a deep appreciation for sports and its power to bring people together.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Bruce’s memory to various organisations, including The First Tee of Connecticut and the Connecticut State Golf Association. These contributions honour Berlet’s legacy and his commitment to growing the game of golf for future generations.

Funeral Arrangements

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during calling hours, scheduled for Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. at the Farley-Sullivan Funeral Home in Wethersfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday at 11 a.m. at St. Paul Church of Ss. Isidore and Maria Parish in Glastonbury, followed by a private burial.

Conclusion

Bruce Berlet leaves behind an indelible mark on the world of sports journalism. His passion for golf, commitment to women's basketball, and extensive coverage of hockey have inspired countless individuals. As we remember him, we reflect on the importance of storytelling in sports and the connections it fosters within our communities. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the many lives he touched, both on and off the field. What will you remember most about Bruce’s contributions to sports journalism?

#BruceBerlet #SportsJournalism #ConnecticutGolf

FAQs

What sports did Bruce Berlet cover during his career?

Bruce Berlet covered a variety of sports, including golf, women's basketball, and hockey, with a significant focus on the UConn women’s basketball team and the Greater Hartford Open golf tournament.

What awards did Bruce Berlet receive?

Berlet received numerous awards throughout his career, including recognition from the Golf Writers Association of America for his feature on John Daly, along with various state and regional journalism awards.

When was Bruce Berlet inducted into the Connecticut Golf Hall of Fame?

Bruce Berlet was inducted into the Connecticut Golf Hall of Fame in 2009, recognising his substantial contributions to the sport and journalism.

How long did Bruce Berlet cover the Greater Hartford Open?

Bruce Berlet covered the Greater Hartford Open for 50 consecutive years before the COVID-19 pandemic impacted his participation.

What legacy did Bruce Berlet leave behind?

Bruce Berlet's legacy includes his extensive sports journalism career, his passion for golf, and his commitment to enhancing the enjoyment of sports for fans, particularly through his writing.