Eric Hagman, the long-time sports director at KQV, likes to tell people nothing surprises him. But on July 21, Hagman was surprised -- greatly.

KQV, the radio station where he had worked since 1988 and had been sports director since 1990, was eliminating his position.

"I was stunned," said Hagman, who is working in real estate. "We were making plans for the upcoming football season. I never expected this.

"They said it was a financial decision."

Hagman maintains he has not resigned and the station, which wanted to reassign him to a general news anchor role, maintains he has not been fired.

Hagman declined the news anchor role by saying, "The only position for which I was properly trained was eliminated."

In a small victory, Hagman was declared eligible for unemployment benefits by the Department of Labor & Industry.

The sports director's position at KQV has been a breeding ground for successful broadcasting careers. Previous sports directors include, in chronological order going backward, Scott Ferrell, Paul Steigerwald, Goose Goslin, John Steigerwald and Stan Savran.

"I haven't formally contacted any radio stations," Hagman said, "but I am not closing the door on future sports reporting positions. I will not leave Pittsburgh."

He added, "It is disappointing my position was eliminated but more disappointing, however, is how it was handled and that my listeners -- a very loyal group -- have not been told why I am off the air."