Freshman Joseph Bonadonna recently received a 100% scholarship to Youth Sports Broadcasting Academy.

Bonadonna currently interns as a color commentator with the Green Bay Blizzard.

“I’ve always felt that I have a different passion for sports than the typical athlete. I think the value I bring to the game is through my mind and voice,” said Bonadonna.

Bonadonna’s broadcasting partner, Alex Strouf, went to him with the scholarship opportunity.  

The YSN Academy selected 10 students nationwide to participate in the program.

To apply for this scholarship the participants had to submit transcripts, report cards, an essay expressing their passion and interest in broadcasting and a letter of recommendation from an NDA staff member.  

“I want to learn more about all aspects of sports to pursue a career in sports management or sports broadcasting,” said Bonadonna.

The YSN Broadcasting Academy is an online 13-week course, with job shadowing opportunities with sports broadcasters in the the state.

“I was excited by the opportunity to allow me to learn and expand upon the knowledge I’ve gained with the Blizzard organization,” said Bonadonna.

Since the age of 10 Bonadonna has known he wanted to do something in sports. Some of his favorite broadcasters growing up were Kevin Harlan (Premontre alum), John Anderson (SportsCenter anchor from Green Bay), Gus Johnson, Cris Collinsworth and Al Michaels.

“Hearing them in movies, video games and on live broadcasts on TV inspired me to follow that path,” said Bonadonna.

Eventually, Bonadonna, would like to work with the Green Bay Packers, whether that’s broadcasting or in the front office. His interest in sports goes beyond the broadcast booth. He also has an interest in the statistical, scouting and business aspect of the game.

In the meantime, he would like to host his own broadcasting network for NDA athletic events and continue with the passion as a student here at NDA.

Bonadonna advises that broadcasting is a great field to go into if you’re interested in every aspect of sports. You build a lot of good connections with players, coaches and other broadcasters.

“If you want to pursue something in sports without playing, broadcasting is a great path to follow,” said Bonadonna.