The New Era of WWE has brought us new rivalries, new opportunities and, in one case, a new announcer. Meet Andrea D’Marco. Since joining WWE NXT this past spring, Andrea has served as a ring announcer, host and backstage interviewer, even recently taking her talents to Monday Night Raw. Now, WWE.com talks to Andrea about everything from her experience in the National Hockey League to her most embarrassing moments on NXT as she embarks on her new exciting path in sports-entertainment.
Follow Andrea on Twitter @AndreaDMarcoWWE
WWE.COM: What has it been like to be a part of WWE NXT?
ANDREA D’MARCO: Being a part of WWE NXT has been absolutely amazing. I'm especially fascinated by the coaches and the Superstars. Seeing them train, day in and day out, gives me a whole new level of respect for these tremendous athletes. I also very much love getting to know our fans at the Live Events. Their energy is infectious and their passion for the product makes my job incredibly rewarding. I am truly fortunate to do what I love with NXT.
WWE.COM: You’ve had a pretty extensive broadcasting background prior to joining WWE. Can you tell us about your background?
D’MARCO: I spent four seasons as the digital reporter and arena host for the NHL's Florida Panthers. I have also hosted for Fox Sports, Florida Atlantic University football, CBS 4 [in Miami] and CNN en Español. When I’m not hosting sports or entertainment, I’m a travel host for Walt Disney World/About.com.
WWE.COM: Speaking of the entertainment aspect, you’ve also had some acting and dance experiences as well. What inspired you to try so many different things?
D’MARCO: Growing up, I wanted to do everything! But, I've always had a passion for the arts. I have been truly blessed to receive so many favorable opportunities. My parents taught me that there's no such thing as a small job, so when I found the chance to learn and become a better performer, I immediately went for it.
WWE.COM: Is it true that you’re a certified Zumba instructor?
D’MARCO: Yes. After making the decision to retire as a Miami Dolphins cheerleader, I auditioned for a unique opportunity with Zumba. They were looking for a spokesperson that danced professionally, had a hosting background, and was also bilingual to lead their dance fitness campaign with Kellogg's. Fortunately for me, I met all of those requirements and after a long audition process, I was hired to be the national spokesperson for Zumba and Kellogg's. I toured the country promoting a Zumba dance fitness video that I hosted, while educating people about fitness and eating right.
WWE.COM: You spoke of the encouragement your parents gave you. What was your upbringing like?
D’MARCO: I was born in Armenia, Colombia, but my parents and I came to South Florida when I was only 6 months old. I am an only child, which makes us a family of four, if you include my handsome little dog, Rocky. Growing up, my parents, Mario and Aura, put me in every dance class imaginable. From a very young age, I had tap dance shoes on my feet and a microphone in my hand. To this day, not much has changed, other than my tap dancing abilities never really improving.
WWE.COM: When were you first attracted to sports-entertainment?
D’MARCO: I have always had a pulse on sports-entertainment, but I really started to pay attention when I was babysitting in high school. The kids I took care of were such huge fans, which actually allowed me to immerse myself and become a fan, just like them. We would all go to shows when WWE was in town and I would wear my “Stone Cold” Steve Austin T-shirt with the rest of the kids I was taking care of.
WWE.COM: How intimidating was it to go from being a fan to actually joining the WWE family?
D’MARCO: Honestly, I was very intimidated in the beginning. I had no idea what to expect. Sure, I worked in the NFL and NHL, but I knew this was going to be different so I was definitely out of my comfort zone. However, I know that going outside of your comfort zone always feels intimidating at first. But after meeting everyone at the Performance Center, I knew this is exactly where I wanted to be. Everyone, from the coaches to the Superstars, made me feel incredibly welcomed and, just like that, my nerves started to fade and I felt like I was part of a family.
WWE.COM: We have to ask, have you had any embarrassing moments during an event yet?
D’MARCO: Oh goodness, yes! There are too many moments to count on one hand. They range anywhere from forgetting Superstars' names to tripping on my heels as I get into the ring. I learned at a very young age that you need a sense of humor to get through the less than graceful moments, which has helped me as I fumble and trip over myself.
WWE.COM: You recently made your WWE main roster debut as well, in the role of backstage interviewer. What has that been like?
D’MARCO: It’s been a whirlwind. Talk about unpredictability and moving fast! I wasn't really expecting it to happen so quickly, but I’m so thankful for the chance to be a part of something so special. Everyone plays a crucial role to make the WWE what it is and to be a part of this in any capacity makes me so thankful to all that have helped me and continue to help me become the best broadcaster I can be. I look forward to growing with WWE and learning all I can with this unique and amazing opportunity.
WWE.COM: What are your long-term goals?
D’MARCO: I hope to continue to grow as a ring announcer and host with WWE and learn from the people that surround me. I have a passion for public speaking and look forward to continue speaking at college tours about women breaking into the world of sports media. I most recently co-authored a book with women influencers about leadership and overcoming obstacles, which will be launching soon. My overall goal is to empower women to live a fulfilling life by building a following that supports one another to achieve their dreams.