Joe Reinagel to retire from KENS 5 San Antonio

Joe Reinagel retired from his KENS 5 San Antonio sports director role after 25 years on February 28, 2022.

UPDATE JUNE 2022
Nate Ryan joins KENS San Antonio

"It is always difficult to make big decisions like this, but the time is right," Reinagel said on the KENS 5 website. "I have been incredibly blessed to be a part of such an iconic television station for so long."

And his time with KENS 5 has been long.  The station points out Reinagel is only "the second main evening sportscaster in the history of KENS 5." Reinagel started with the now TEGNA station in 1997 and took over for Dan Cook who retired in 2000.

"We are definitely sad to see Joe go but we understand his desire to spend more time with his precious grandchildren," said Tom Cury, the station’s president and general manager. "We’re grateful for the 25 years Joe has given KENS 5 and sports fans throughout South Texas."

But San Antonio sports fans shouldn't be too upset, as Reinagel is joining San Antonio Sports Star’s afternoon show "The Blitz" with Jason Minnix on 1250 AM KZDC and 94.5 FM. "The Blitz" airs 4pm to 7pm Monday through Friday.

"It’s funny how life comes full circle," Reinagel told 550 AM KTSA News. "I started my broadcast career here in this building and now I’m back."

According to LinkedIn, Reinagel got his start in broadcasting at KTFM/KTSA back in 1994.

Through his San Antonio sports career, the South Texas born and raised Reinagel had a courtside view of all five Spurs championships.

“I am grateful to those who have tuned in throughout the years, it has been a great honor being a part of your lives for 25 years," Reinagel added. "The people I have had the pleasure to work with over the years have all been professionals, the best at what we do. But they’re also kind, loving people who care deeply for this community. I have made many lifelong friends here."

The Texas State University grad has also been a Licensed Realtor with eXp Realty, LLC.

So who will take Reinagel's sports job?  

We know that KENS 5 sports journalist Vinnie Vinzetta has taken himself out of running.

Here is part of what Vinzetta posted to Facebook:

"I’ve declined any consideration for the job. Nine out of ten probably wouldn’t, but right now I’m that one. I’ve spent some time in prayer, and thought, and my heart kept coming back to the same place. I’m comfortable, and at peace with the decision.

I’m at different places in life these days. I’m still dreaming big about other things. But I’m really enjoying engaging with the community every day. Going to practices, games, reporting from the field, feature storytelling, our Forever Family series and anchoring weekdays and weekends when needed. My on air time is plenty.

I’ve always appreciated the support, and I’ve always approached every opportunity with positivity as much as possible. We’ve got two spots to fill, our weekend sports anchor position, and our new Sports Director. Those will be huge shoes to fill as Joe enjoys, and well deserved, the next phase of his life."

* updated with Vinzetta's post