For more than a decade, Joe Isenman captured lasting images in Somerset County history. While Isenman also photographed major news events, he was best known for his high school sports coverage.
Isenman died unexpectedly at the age of 72, Tuesday, Aug. 11. Though Isenman is gone, his images will be remembered for years to come.
Isenman loved the Meyersdale Red Raiders, his alma mater, and the Cleveland Browns. He was on assignment for the Daily American as a correspondent when Meyersdale baseball captured the first PIAA team title in Somerset County history in 2017. Isenman's memorable photo of pitcher Riley Christner throwing his glove in the air with both hands raised to the sky is just one of so many greats.
He was also on the floor when the Berlin Brothersvalley basketball team made more history as the first girls program in Somerset County to win a state championship in 2019. Isenman loved when he had the opportunity to cover Browns-Steelers games for the newspaper. There weren't many conversations with "Izzy" where a, "Go, Browns," proclamation wasn't made.
Isenman covered countless conference and district title events across Somerset County. He had an uncanny knack for capturing images that even full-time photographers at other newspapers could not obtain.
Through many deep state playoff runs, Isenman was always willing to drive or ride alongside a Daily American sportswriter or current sports editor Adam Ripple to wherever the Somerset County teams or athletes were competing. There were many nights, especially in March, where Isenman and Ripple spent more time together than they did with their wives. However, Isenman would always call his loving wife, Paula to let her know the happenings of the sporting event he was covering.
Isenman brightened every sideline, baseline, dugout, track, wrestling mat or arena he graced. The coaches, athletes, parents and grandparents were fond of Isenman. He treated them all with respect. He was proud to showcase his work. Isenman's photo galleries were nothing short of tremendous, making sure every image was cropped and the ideal brightness was displayed.
Following his passing, Isenman was described on social media by some who knew him as a great guy, a favorite, a class act, awesome man, a good dude, classic, and a welcome and hilarious addition to the dugout, just to name a few.
However, the most prominent words that have been shared are how deeply Isenman will be missed. He will be sorely missed during the 2026-27 scholastic sports season, and far beyond. His kindness, off the cuff comments, some of which inappropriate, laughter and his determination to capture the best images of the game will never be forgotten.
Adam Ripple is the Daily American sports editor. He can be reached at 814-444-5926. Follow him on X @ARipple_DAsport. Follow Daily American Sports on Facebook and @dailyamericanmedia on Instagram.
This article originally appeared on The Daily American: Through the lens, Joe Isenman was one of one
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