Fox59 has welcomed Mike Lacett, an acclaimed sports reporter with 25 years of experience, to its sports coverage team. This strategic hire follows the retirement of long-standing sports director Chris Widlic, ensuring the station continues its tradition of strong sports journalism. Lacett's appointment is expected to bolster the network's reporting on key local franchises, leveraging his extensive background in the Midwest sports scene.
Emmy-Winning Reporter Mike Lacett Joins Fox59 Sports Desk in Indianapolis
Indianapolis, Indiana – On a bright Friday, August 7, 2026, the local sports journalism landscape saw a significant change as Fox59 announced the addition of veteran reporter Mike Lacett to its esteemed sports department. This move, which Lacett himself shared in a professional online update, marks a new chapter in his distinguished 25-year career.
Lacett, a recipient of two Emmy Awards for his exceptional work in sports broadcasting, will now be at the forefront of covering some of Indiana's most beloved athletic institutions. His responsibilities will include providing in-depth coverage of the Indiana Pacers basketball team, the Indianapolis Colts football franchise, and the Indiana Fever, among other prominent local sports stories. This transition follows a successful four-year period during which Lacett worked for a Fox affiliate in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he covered high-profile events such as NASCAR races and reported on the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte Hornets.
The announcement comes approximately one month after Chris Widlic, who had served as Fox59's sports director for many years, stepped down from his position. Lacett expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating in his LinkedIn post that he was "really excited about the opportunity to work with such a great sports team as well as everyone else there at the station."
Lacett's connection to the Midwest runs deep, with previous stints in cities like Toledo, Ohio; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Louisville, Kentucky. CJ Hoyt, Fox59's news director, praised Lacett's arrival in a statement to IndyStar, highlighting his wealth of experience and strong work ethic. Hoyt, who previously managed Lacett in Toledo, emphasized his positive attitude and dedication to his craft, affirming the station's confidence in their new hire.
This strategic addition reinforces Fox59's commitment to delivering comprehensive and high-quality sports news to its audience, promising enhanced coverage for Indiana sports enthusiasts.
Mike Lacett's move to Fox59 is more than just a personnel change; it's a testament to the enduring value of experienced journalism in an ever-evolving media landscape. His two Emmy awards and two-and-a-half decades of reporting speak volumes about his dedication and skill. For viewers, this means a deeper, more nuanced understanding of their favorite teams and athletes. For aspiring journalists, Lacett's career path underscores the importance of consistent effort, diverse experience, and a genuine passion for storytelling. In an era where media consumption habits are constantly shifting, the integration of seasoned professionals like Lacett ensures that quality content remains at the heart of local news, enriching the community's engagement with its sports culture.
