Nicole Cuglewski, the Cavs’ in-game host, graciously spent some time chatting about her job, her other job, her other other job, polka, and more. Get to know the woman that keeps you entertained during Cavs games. Photo courtesy of the Cleveland Cavs.
VG: How did you get the gig?
Nicole: This is my fourth season now. Back then, I saw they were hosting auditions. The first audition was at St. Ed’s. I don’t know how many people showed up. We took a look at a script and gave it a read. Then they narrowed it down and we went to the Q. There was a small group. They paired us up with a guy because they wanted to see how we would interact because they were also looking for a PA announcer at the time. Then they had us run through a mock game.
VG: Is there a difference in the level of nervousness between that first season and now?
Nicole: Before I do every hit, I still get a little jittery. But for me, those are good. They give me energy to do the job. Once they go away, I think it means I don’t care, so I’m glad I still have them.
VG: What’s your day job?
Nicole: I work at American Greetings as a marketing manager full time. I work on a brand called Photoworks where users can upload digital pictures onto hardbound cover books mousepads, coffe mugs, etc.
VG: And you also sing, so you’re basically a Renaissance woman.
Nicole: I do a bunch of random stuff. I do the spots for Mr. Hero, I also host a show on Time Warner called “Helping Hands” where we highlight area non-profit groups. I’m also getting involved in producing since I have a writing background.
This article appears in Apr 15-21, 2009.
