Meet the Hosts!
Eric Bonanno
Eric brings decades of experience across junior and professional hockey:
- Chief Operating Officer, Kentucky Thoroughblades (AHL affiliate of the San Jose Sharks)
- Franchise Owner & General Manager, Billings Bulls (Junior A)
- General Manager, Lake Charles Ice Pirates (WPHL)
- Early career experience with the Spokane Chiefs (WHL) in broadcasting and front-office operations
Eric brings firsthand insight from building and leading winning organizations, along with a community-first leadership mindset shaped by decades inside the game. His behind-the-scenes perspective on player development and hockey operations is paired with real-world lessons that connect sports, life, family, and faith, adding depth and authenticity to every Bonanno Sports Banter conversation.
Justin Bonanno
Justin played his first junior hockey game at just 14 years old, beginning a six-year junior hockey career that shaped his leadership and competitive mindset. He went on to play four seasons of NCAA hockey at Bethel University, where he served as team captain and earned a reputation as a steady, team-first leader.
Having experienced the game from the locker room up, Justin brings a player’s perspective to Bonanno Sports Banter—blending firsthand insight with thoughtful conversation around life, family, faith, and Seattle sports.
Featured Guests
Nick Maronde
Ron DeGregorio
Nick Maronde
Nick Maronde is a former MLB pitcher with the Los Angeles Angels who joined Bonanno Sports Banter to share insight on life in professional baseball and competing at the highest level.
Tom Kowal
Ron DeGregorio
Nick Maronde
Tom Kowal is a former NHL referee with over two decades of experience officiating at the highest level of professional hockey, including numerous Stanley Cup Playoff games.
Ron DeGregorio
Ron DeGregorio
Ron DeGregorio
Ron DeGregorio served as President of USA Hockey from 2003 to 2015 and played a key role in shaping player development and the growth of the game in the United States.
Rod Sandberg
Jim Fitzgerald
Ron DeGregorio
Rod Sandberg is a two-time Northwest Conference Coach of the Year who has built Whitworth into a consistent NCAA Division III playoff program with one of the best winning percentages in the country.
Jim Fitzgerald
Jim Fitzgerald
Jim Fitzgerald
Jim Fitzgerald is the Director of Operations for Washington baseball and a former Seattle Mariners executive with nearly three decades of experience in professional and collegiate baseball.
Andy Billig
Jim Fitzgerald
Jim Fitzgerald
Andy Billig is a former Washington State Senate Majority Leader and co-owner of the Spokane Indians, with deep ties to both public service and professional sports.