Terry Hutchens, a highly respected and award-winning sports writer recognized for his coverage of the NFL’s Colts and the Indiana Hoosiers during the turbulent era of coach Bob Knight, passed away after sustaining severe injuries in a car accident. He was 60 years old. Scott Underwood, the editor of The (Anderson) Herald Bulletin, confirmed Hutchens’ passing at Community Hospital North in Indianapolis as reported by the family.
Known as “Hutch,” he was a five-time recipient of the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Indiana Sports Writer of the Year Award. He most recently served as the Indiana University beat writer for CNHI Sports Indiana, a group of 13 newspapers including The Herald Bulletin, and various websites across the state. Before joining CNHI, Hutchens contributed to The Indianapolis Star, The Indianapolis News, and the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel.
George Bremer, the Editor of CNHI Sports Indiana, described Hutchens as “one of the most esteemed and admired sports journalists in Indiana. His professionalism at CNHI Sports Indiana was unparalleled.” Tributes for Hutchens came from Indiana Men’s basketball coach Archie Miller, former coach Tom Crean, Colts owner Jim Irsay, and athletic director Fred Glass, among others.
“He chronicled the history of IU athletics over two decades, but beyond that, he was a devoted father, husband, and a cherished friend to many,” said Glass. Don Fischer, the veteran radio announcer for IU basketball and football, revealed that Hutchens had a unique and engaging approach when seeking information. “He would throw in a clever remark or provoke a response just to test you,” said Fischer.
“Then he’d chuckle and reveal his true purpose. He had a way of catching you off guard.” Hutchens, originally from Southern California until the age of 28, showed an impressive understanding and deep involvement in the IU sports scene. “For a Californian, his knowledge and passion for IU sports were remarkable,” explained David Woods, a sports writer at The Star who worked closely with Hutchens from 1994 to 2013. “He truly absorbed it, breathed it, and truly lived it.”
