Rocco DeMaro
Rocco DeMaro blends an irreverent attitude, incisive wit and a wealth of knowledge into a truly compelling package of sports talk infotainment.
DeMaro’s background in philosophy and sports journalism give him a unique perspective in a field too often dominated by the mundane. And his dynamic personality compels him to go places few sports talkers would dare.
‘The Roc’ also writes for several national websites including Foxsports.com and Rotoworld.com. He can be heard weekends on FM Newstalk 104.7.
From: http://www.wpgb.com
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Columnist Bob Smizik on DeMaro:
"Host Rocco DeMaro brings a passion to the "The Extra Innings Show." He comes well prepared and isn't afraid to offer criticisms."
The Pittsburgh Pirates Official Programming Press Release
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette -- "WPGB-FM (104.7) sports talk host Rocco
DeMaro was hit in the head by a softball while playing in a pickup game
July 1 and suffered a fractured skull. He is off the air while he
recovers."
Here are some excerpts from a discussion board about Rocco's injuries:
"Very sad news regarding Rocco. He sustained a severe head injury in a softball game last night. He was running to first base on an infield grounder and a throw from the shortstop hit him squarely in the temple. Rocco suffered a cracked skull and a severe concussion. He awoke this morning with some pretty bad swelling. He was aware of everything but some motor skills seems to have been affected."
--
"I was able to visit Rocco last night. He underwent emergency, reconstructive surgery Sunday night. He now has permanent titanium plates. He is cognizant of the situation but still pretty traumatized. Swelling around the wound and a bruise on his brain, "the size of a grape," are creating pressure causing some difficulty.
--
Here is part of an email from Rocco's wife Missy to the discussion board:
"This is Missy obviously, writing on M. Rocco's behalf. I wanted to give you the update from today. We met with his speech therapist for the first time today. Starting Thursday, she's going to be visiting him every day to work on things. For now, she says she was pleased that even though he has trouble finding words frequently, he still finds a way to get his point across, like gesturing or writing down what he wants to say. There's a lot more work to come on that front, though.
Lanny Frattare came to visit today, and he brought along a "get well" baseball, signed by a bunch of the Pirates. Mike (Rocco) was totally blown away, both by Lanny's visit and by the gift.
Thanks again to all of you for calling and visiting. Mike has really enjoyed the company."