Park University (MO)

Without a doubt, Park soccer fans from 2014-2023 would recognize the voice of Erik Bergrud. Often referred to as the Voice of Park Soccer, Bergrud served as Park’s soccer play-by-play announcer for 10 years. With his induction into the 2025 Wall of Honor Class, his name will forever be recognized at Park. And for many, his iconic calls for Park goals will be unforgettable. Bergrud earned a Master of Public Affairs with an emphasis in Government-Business Relations at Park in 1994. His career would bring him back to Park in 2005, where he would be a key administrator for the next 19 years. Over that span he served the university in various roles, including an Associate Vice President from 2012-2021 and then was named Chief Strategic Communications Officer in 2021-2024. 2022 brought well deserved recognition for Bergrud and staff as In-House PR Team of the Year, presented by the GKC-PRSA. The die-hard soccer enthusiast also brought his voice and energy to the Kansas City Comets (MASL), the KC Courage (WPSL), and filled in with the Kansas City Current (NWSL) as a play-by-play and public address announcer. He and Nick Vasos won the MASL’s 2022-23 Best Broadcast Production Award as the color analyst for the Comets. He and his wife, Kimberlee, are active philanthropists who have co-chaired major fundraising events for numerous Kansas City nonprofits as well.