Veteran Bay area sports anchor Al Keck will not have his contract renewed by WFTS-Ch. 28 when it expires later this summer. Keck said his last day will be sometime around Sept. 1.

"And now I'll look at other opportunities,'' Keck said. "I've got some exciting possibilities.''

Keck said he is mulling over possibilities both locally and outside the area both in broadcasting and outside of broadcasting. He added he has one intriguing possibility, but wasn't prepared to talk about it because it's in the early stages.

Rich Pegram, Ch. 28's general manager, said, "As we all are in this industry during these times, we are re-examining the best way to cover all the stories that we need to cover. Sports is still an integral part of what we do and we know people care about sports. But we are re-examining our future and we felt it was best to let Al know as early as possible about this. He is the consummate professional and we wish him nothing but the best.''

Pegram said no decision has been made about a replacement or even if the station would replace Keck. With Keck's departure, Tom Korun would be the only full-time on-air sports anchor.

"We're still deciding how best to go forward,'' Pegram said. "Right now, any and all options are possible.''

Keck, 54, was an anchor at WTSP-Ch. 10 for more than 12 years when his contract was not renewed in 2001. He joined Ch. 28 later that year.

Photo: ABC Action News