About me
Hi, my name is Arda! I’m an Emmy nominated anchor and currently a host at ESPN and the voice of the NHL Gaming World Championships. I’m the son of immigrant Muslim parents from Turkey, who moved to a wonderful community just outside of Toronto. I’ve been pursuing this crazy dream of broadcasting in one form or another since 2000. Earlier in my career I hosted a morning show, in which I had the distinct honor of interviewing folks from all walks of life, including A-list celebrities and the local gardener. I also learned how to keep it cool while reporting live from the middle of deadly snowstorms and floods. Since then I have hosted programs that aired in 120 countries, called world title fights, and reported live on ESPN Sportscenter. I’ve had the pleasure of hosting a variety of events, including everything from Dog grooming competitions to competitive table tennis, comic cons to video game conventions, and TED talks. Alan Thicke once told me that I have pretty eyes, and Cuba Gooding Jr. demanded I give him my socks. All in a day’s work! Other random facts about me: I’m in Mensa (it’s not as hard as you might think!), I’m often the first Muslim-Canadian broadcaster to be hired on the air at (insert station, network or global sports or entertainment brand here). I have a lovely wife, Jennifer, and a beautiful baby girl, Ayla! In my off time I’m an adjunct professor in the Sports Broadcasting Masters Program at Iona College. My full resume and demo reels are all on this site. Enjoy!
“This is where an inspirational quote would go, but i only posted this photo because i miss those sneakers.” - arda Öcal
EMAIL ARDA: bookardaocal@gmail.com
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