Fulfilling your dream can seem daunting at times, but sometimes it ends up working out after much hard work and perserverence. For Maria Marino, our latest Hoboken Girl of the Week, that’s exactly what happened. Having spent her time between sports media jobs in Manhattan, this local gal has finally landed her breakthrough role at Sports Net New York {and you might recognize her from your TV screen}. As this week’s HG of the Week, read on to find out more about how Maria has crafted a career for herself, the highlights of her day-to-day job, and more.
{Photo courtesy of @mariacmarino}
Tell us about yourself.
For the last handful of years, I’ve juggled a few sports media jobs in Manhattan between Sirius XM Radio, NBC Sports Radio, FNTSY Sports Network, and others, but just recently landed a full-time on-camera role in television at Sports Net New York, where I’ve freelanced since May of 2018 as an analyst, host, anchor, and reporter. Huge breakthrough for me!
What is your biggest source of inspiration?
I believe in combining passion and natural abilities to find what makes you happy and solidifying that into a central part of life. Along with that, a competitive, gritty nature has driven me to navigate the trials of the broadcast industry. I’m extremely ambitious in my career, and therefore pretty self-motivated, but those close to me have helped by encouraging while also understanding the commitment required to keep climbing professionally. My parents and siblings inspire me with their work ethic and how they take care of their respective families. Additionally, I draw inspiration from seasoned pros that successfully shape the public narrative surrounding sports storylines, and in particular those shattering stereotypes about women involved in sports.
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What are your goals for this year?
A year ago, the big goal was to reach a more sustainable situation in terms of job security and finance so that I could focus on sharpening my skills. I’m thrilled to now be in a position to do that. So from here I’ll devote myself to consistently performing at a high level by becoming more knowledgeable, comfortable and better in all aspects – interviewing, writing, news judgment, hunting down truth, and using that to communicate perspective, present informed opinion, and effectively drive insightful conversation, plus have some fun entertaining viewers in the process.
What’s a typical day look like for you?
Every day is pretty different, which has typically been my preference, but it always includes knowing what’s going on in the world of sports. That means absorbing information from multiple sources – reading, listening to sports radio, watching TV and digital content, and generally cultivating a basis of understanding. More concretely, it starts with catching buses and trains into and around the city. Sometimes I head to the studio and sometimes I’ll be on assignment in the field, covering games or press conferences. When I’m at work I need to be ON {figuratively and literally on the air}, so I try my best to be rested and energized despite some unorthodox hours. I also do have to be conscious of my appearance as far as styling and makeup. Then it’s time to execute – and there are many talented people around me who I enjoy collaborating with to create a great production. In my free time, I try to stay active and unwind with the people I care about. I love to travel, see concerts, and go to games {even when I’m not on the clock}.
What has been the highlight in your career so far?
Simply put, relationships bred from meaningful interactions are the highlights of my career. That includes interviewing athletes I cover and building a friendly rapport with them. When certain athletes or coaches recognize me, trust me, can joke with me… that means a lot. By the same token, it’s rewarding to be acknowledged by peers whose work I respect and admire. Finally, I feel fulfilled when people who follow me or watch on TV reach out with kind words. Negative energy is prevalent on social media, but I’m also grateful for a means to connect with my audience. Every positive message I receive is one more nudge pushing me and reminding me, “I got this. I can do this.” I found that especially important when the grind was extra tough and testing me daily.
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Tell us about another business in the area you admire.
It may seem like brown-nosing, but Hoboken Girl! I’ve followed the website for several years and appreciate how it’s grown into the area’s go-to source for lifestyle content.
Hoboken + Jersey City Favorites
What is your favorite restaurant in Hoboken?
Del Frisco’s Grille gets me with the skyline backdrop and steaks! The food and experience at Amanda’s are also superb. For a casual lunch and coffee, The Little Grocery is where it’s at.
What is your favorite boutique in Hoboken?
I’m a fan of Luna Rosa on Washington for the unique gifts/décor and friendly service.
What do you love most about our area?
There’s something about Hoboken… beauty, history, charm, a sense of community, and just about everything you could want packed into one square mile. I also appreciate the proximity and accessibility to Manhattan. I personally have family ties to Hoboken as well.
What is your favorite thing to do in Hudson County?
Just explore. Hoboken and Jersey City seem to be buzzing as far as business, culture, and real estate, which means I’m constantly discovering new shops and places to dine and chill.
How long have you lived in Hudson County?
I’ve spent considerable time in Hoboken throughout my adult life but have resided in Weehawken, on the outskirts of uptown Hoboken, for two and a half years. I’m looking to move to Hoboken-proper or Jersey City within the next six months again.
What is your favorite outdoor place to spend time in Hoboken?
Walking along Sinatra Drive and around the adjacent parks never gets old.
What is your favorite place to work out in Hudson County?
For me, working out entails hitting the sand volleyball court at Stevens Institute. As long as it’s not too cold and there are enough people to play pick-up, I get over there at least once a week for a few hours.
Where do you go out with friends in the area?
I prefer the bars on the water for the views, or uptown for a quieter scene. City Bistro’s rooftop and outside at the Biergarten on 15th Street are a couple of my favs in the summer; Moran’s in the winter. If I feel like dancing or playing pong, Tally Ho!
What is something you think needs to come to Hoboken?
With the city taking suggestions for improving the Northwest Resiliency Park near the 14th Street Viaduct, I can say there’s a substantial group of people, myself included, that would love to see a sand volleyball court built there.
Keep up with Maria on Instagram and Twitter, and stay tuned for her #HobokenGirlTakeover!
Want to be featured or nominate someone as an upcoming Hoboken Girl of the Week?
Email hello@hobokengirl.com about your/her story.
