Broadcaster Al McCoy to be honored as grand marshal of Fiesta Bowl Parade

PHOENIX — Valley sports icon and Hall of Fame Phoenix Suns broadcaster Al McCoy was named grand marshal for this year’s Fiesta Bowl Parade.

“To get the invitation to be the grand marshal of the parade was a surprise, but something that really was very meaningful to me,” McCoy said at the Fiesta Bowl Museum in Scottsdale after the announcement.

The parade is set for Dec. 17 with a 2-mile route along Central Avenue in Phoenix.

McCoy, the man known for unmistakable catchphrases such as “Shazam!” and “Whammo,” is entering his 51st season as a Suns’ play by play man.

Over that time, he’s seen the Fiesta Bowl and parade grow into what it is today. He’s also been able to see other legends become grand marshal, including basketball icons Charles Barkley and Jerry Colangelo.

“There have been astronauts and just about every type of person, great athletes, and to be even considered on that list has really been meaningful to me,” McCoy said.

While it’s a great honor, the grand marshal also serves a purpose. Randall Norton, chair of the board of the Fiesta Bowl, said those with the title promote the parade and get people to show up.

“By us having somebody like Al McCoy a titled grand marshal just draws more people out and obviously everybody in Arizona knows Al McCoy,” Norton said.

With the news, McCoy is already preparing for the event.

“I consider it a privilege. I consider it an honor to be representing the fabulous Fiesta Bowl. … I’m looking forward to it. I’m practicing my arm wave,” he said.