Broadcaster Q&A with Nick Nollenberger
Sep 29, 2016Nick Nollenberger (@NickNollen) was brought aboard this offseason as the new broadcaster and media relations manager for the San Jose Barracuda. We asked him a few questions to introduce the Bay Area native to the fans in San Jose.
What made you go into sports broadcasting?
I’ve listened to Dan Rusanowsky since I was three, and I always knew that if I didn’t make it as a player, I wanted to be a broadcaster. I never allowed myself to have a Plan B. If I wasn’t broadcasting, I'm not sure what I'd be doing.
What stops did you make before joining the San Jose Barracuda?
Before joining the Barracuda, I was the Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations for the Odessa Jackalopes (NAHL) for one season, Assistant Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations for the Kannapolis Intimidators, Class ‘A’ Chicago White Sox for one season, and student radio hockey broadcaster at the University of Arizona for three seasons.
What was your favorite broadcasting moment?
My favorite broadcasting moment to date was, funny enough, the first hockey game I called in college. No matter the sport, when Arizona and Arizona State play, everyone shows up. The Sun Devils at the time were ranked #1 in the country among ACHA club hockey programs and the Tucson Convention Center was packed to capacity (5,500). The game was back and forth, but in the end the Sun Devils held on for a 6-4 victory. I just loved the energy in the building and the school spirit.
In addition to broadcasting, what other responsibilities did you have for the Odessa Jackalopes?
With a small staff, there isn’t a job too small or big. I handled all social media, graphic design, video production, community appearances, website maintenance, writing, tech support, team meal coordination, radio voiceovers, sales, etc.
We hear you're from the area. Were you a Sharks fan before?
Oh yeah! My whole family bleeds teal. Both my brothers and I all played Jr. Sharks and we went to games all the time as a kid.
What was your favorite memory with the Junior Sharks?
Too many to count, but if I had to remember a personal one, I think I was 9 years old. It was the NorCal state semi-final, and we were down 1-0. I scored to tie the game in the third period and then again in overtime to win it. The whole team mobbed me behind the net. For a young kid, that was quite the thrill.
What's a fun fact that Barracuda and Sharks fans should know about you?
I have a twin brother who works in the scouting department for the Cleveland Browns.
What should fans who haven’t listened to you before expect in a San Jose Barracuda broadcast this season?
My passion for the game of hockey is pretty evident through my broadcasts. I think fans should expect excitement when they tune in.