Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandra Draganoiu-Bowler
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
For over two decades, sports have been more than just a passion—they’ve shaped my career, my identity, and my path forward. My journey began as a professional figure skater with Disney On Ice from 2009 to 2011. During that time, I was introduced to the world of public relations and broadcasting through weekly live promotions with local news and radio stations in the cities where we performed.
This real-world exposure to being on a mic paved the way for my next step: auditioning for the role of In-Game Host for the Lake Erie Monsters (now the Cleveland Monsters) of the American Hockey League. I was hired for the 2011-2012 season, marking the beginning of my hosting career. I had the privilege of working with the Monsters through the 2015-2016 season, culminating in a memorable Calder Cup Championship victory. I am incredibly grateful to have begun my hosting journey alongside Olivier Sedra, an incredibly talented host and announcer, whose mentorship and friendship continues to shape my approach to hosting today.
In late 2016, my partner, Jeff, and I moved to Washington, D.C., to advance our careers. Over the next six years, I had the privilege of working with Monumental Sports & Entertainment as the in-game host for the WNBA’s Washington Mystics, the AFL’s Washington Valor, and the NHL’s Washington Capitals. This experience allowed me to work closely with exceptional game-day staff members and be a part of incredible milestones, including a WNBA Finals run, an Arena Bowl title, and a Stanley Cup Championship victory. Also during this time, Jeff and I got married in 2018 and welcomed our first two sons, Aram (2019) and Banks (2021). One of my most cherished memories as a host is holding the mic while pregnant—an experience I would relive for a third time in 2023, while expecting our youngest son, Caio, who was born in September of that year.
In late 2021, we decided to return home to our roots. The hardest part of the decision was saying goodbye to my hosting roles, as Ohio would be too far to maintain my responsibilities in D.C. I had made peace with the idea of hanging up my hosting hat for the indefinite future, but just as we settled in, an old colleague reached out with the opportunity to join the Cleveland Cavaliers hosting team—an unexpected twist that felt like a full-circle moment. During my first season with the Cavaliers, I was connected with the Cleveland Guardians, who were also seeking a host for their team. Since 2022, I’ve had the honor of holding the mic for my hometown NBA and MLB teams, and I continue to be grateful for the chance to do so.
Most recently, my hosting experience has led me to other incredible ventures. This past September and November, I served as Master of Ceremonies for the WISE (Women In Sports & Events) Women of Inspiration Galas in Phoenix, AZ, and Cleveland, OH. Another exciting opportunity came when I was selected as the official in-arena host for the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships—an especially meaningful role, given my history as a competitive figure skater. I’m deeply honored to be part of such a prestigious event.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to see how my hosting career evolves and remain grateful for the opportunities I have to hold the mic and serve as a voice within the sports community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I believe every career, path, and life faces its own challenges and obstacles, and my story is no different. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of maintaining rigorous honesty with yourself in order to confront those challenges head-on, emerging stronger and better for having endured them.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Aside from my hosting work, I also maintain a full-time role as sports executive for P.R.O.S. Sports Housing, a women owned and operated sports housing company. Funny enough, I was introduced to P.R.O.S. Sports Housing while working as the in-arena host for the Washington Valor. I was hired in 2020 and have grown with the company ever since, working in several roles over the years. I am currently on our senior leadership team as the Senior Director of Inside Sales & Client Relations.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
There are several topics that interest me!
As a mom to three boys, I’m always eager to hear how other parents balance all that life throws at us! I’m incredibly fortunate to have an unconditionally supportive husband, along with awesome parents and a wonderful mother-in-law who help on a regular basis, but it can still be a lot to manage! I’ve found some great parenting podcasts and blogs and am always on the hunt for more!
I am also drawn to hearing people’s stories – how they succeeded, what advice they have for the hard times. We’ve all faced challenges and I think listening to other people can give you insight and impact your perspective, particularly when it applies to situations you haven’t experienced first-hand.
Lastly – leadership! Leadership is such a complex topic that can be interwoven with so many areas of your life. Lately I’ve been really digging into Simon Sinek’s content and it is all so profound.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @sandradbcle
