Earlier this week, we wrote about well-known Indiana sportswriter Terry Hutchens (most recently of the CNHI chain) being in critical condition in hospital following a car crash. As per the Anderson Herald-Bulletin (part of that CNHI chain), Hutchens passed away Friday:
Terry Hutchens, long-time Indiana University beat writer, passed away on Friday at the age of 60. Terry is survived by his wife Susan, mother Dena, sister Kelly and two sons: Bryan and Kevin.
…Terry graduated from the Indiana University School of Journalism in May of 1989. He began his career with the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel, covering the Indianapolis Colts, before he moved to the Indianapolis News. Terry worked for the News, and subsequently the Indianapolis Star, for 27 years, the majority of which was spent covering the Indiana Hoosiers basketball and football programs. Most recently, he worked the Indiana University beat for CNHI Sports Indiana, a conglomeration of 13 newspapers and websites throughout the state.
A renowned sports writer, Terry was recognized with numerous awards and distinctions during his career. Most notably, Terry was a five-time recipient of the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Indiana Sports Writer of the Year Award. Terry also wrote nine books on Indiana sports —including Rising From the Ashes: The Return of Indiana Basketball, and three children’s books for the youngest IU and Purdue fans.
Here’s more on Hutchens from a piece from Dana Hunsinger Benbow in the Indianapolis Star:
“For a Californian, he was amazingly immersed in IU sports culture,” said David Woods, IndyStar sports writer who worked with Hutchens from 1994 to 2013. “He studied it, he learned it, he lived it. He understood it.”
Bill Benner, who covered IU as a sports columnist at IndyStar, said he was often impressed with Hutchens’ mastery of the Hoosiers beat.
“I grew up watching IU basketball,” Benner said. “Yet, I learned a lot about IU basketball that I didn’t know through Terry.”
Hutchens was called fair and one of the “good guys” by coaches and players on his beat, including IU basketball coach Archie Miller, who wrote that he “really appreciated how (Hutchens) treated us and covered us.”
And tributes to Hutchens poured in, from fellow media members, coaches and teams he covered, and more:
Saddened to hear the news of the passing of Terry Hutchens! Our deepest thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Susan, mother Dena, sister Kelly and two sons Bryan and Kevin. RIP Terry, you were truely one of the best!
— Arch Miller (@Archie_Miller) December 21, 2018
We never know Gods timing or plans but as respected as Terry Hutchens was , I pray with so many others that He will protect and guide that incredible Family he had. It was an inspiration to see him with his Wife, kids and Mother. God bless all of them.
— Tom Crean (@TomCrean) December 21, 2018
So sad to learn of the passing of Terry Hutchens. I can’t think of anyone I enjoyed more when talking about the game and those that play and coach it. Hutchens was a legit, old school pro. RIP. https://t.co/Etm2sU5DL4
— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) December 21, 2018
I’m having a really hard time with this Terry Hutchens news. My heart hurts for his family who lost a wonderful guy so soon. I will miss him.
— Ben Heisler (@bennyheis) December 21, 2018
Our thoughts are with the Hutchens family at this time. pic.twitter.com/hQfKkyovAI
— Indiana Football (@IndianaFootball) December 21, 2018
I had a https://t.co/9txEJqPuUJ account, I was writing about college basketball, and the first person I ever interviewed was Terry Hutchens. I was, quite rightly, thrilled, and I remember very clearly fellow bloggers were impressed with my get. https://t.co/lEe3szCUry
— John Gasaway (@JohnGasaway) December 21, 2018
We are saddened to learn of the passing of Terry Hutchens, who taught sports journalism courses for us for many semesters. He mentored and inspired dozens of students. https://t.co/F4Sn7ekkV9
— IU Media School (@IUMediaSchool) December 21, 2018
Wow, I’m at a loss for words. I can’t believe it. Terry was always a pleasure to talk with during my career at IU. Was fortunate to work with him a little as well after college. Will always appreciate those opportunities. Prayers for the Hutchens family and Rest In Peace Terry 🙏🏼
— Jordan Hulls (@JordanHulls1) December 21, 2018
Rest in peace, Terry Hutchens. You will be dearly missed. 😢
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) December 21, 2018
He was the unflappable sports reporter known as "Hutch" who had a quick wit, big heart and unwavering knowledge of all things Indiana University sports https://t.co/4yuuhxqfHI via @indystar
— Dana HunsingerBenbow (@DanaBenbow) December 21, 2018
Hutchens will definitely be missed on the Indiana beat and beyond, and he influenced a whole lot of people over his career. Our thoughts go out to his family.
