About “GameDay” Conor

Conor Geary is a Connecticut native. He attended Siena College in
New York after graduating from
East Catholic High School.
He has always been an engaging entertainer…

…in fact, his beloved parents recall stories of Conor dancing in department store windows gathering small crowds of shoppers who were just trying to mind their own damn business. Conor scratched his proverbial itch by joining a local community theater organization “C.A.S.T.” where he performed in dozens of productions for more than 10 years. Conor loved the stage and performance entertainment. This passion stayed with him through college, where Conor was a two-time Irene Ryan Scholarship nominee at Siena.

In 2012, he began managing the Brew HaHa Comedy Club in Downtown Hartford and enjoyed a decade of hospitality management. In 2017 he joined the front office of The Hartford Yard Goats as the Director of Event Services. Shortly after, he auditioned to be the new On-Field Host at Dunkin’ (Donuts) Park. In Spring 2018, Conor was introduced to UConn Athletics. The rest, you might say, is history as “GameDay Conor” was born.

Since then, Conor has made every major venue in Connecticut his stage: Dunkin’ Park, Gampel Pavilion, the XL Center, Rentschler Field, Toscano Family Ice Forum, Mohegan Sun Arena, Total Mortgage Arena, and more. In 2023, Conor hosted the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse National Championship Weekend at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. In short, no stage is too big for Conor to bring the hype and leave fans feeling more entertained. His brand of family-friendly engagement is unbeatable! Conor is so grateful to his parents for letting him flourish, and his wife and daughter for their unconditional support - especially since GameDays can add uncertainties to the parenting schedule.  

FAQs

What’s something people don’t know about you?

Believe it or not I used to have a speech impediment.
I required speech therapy when I was younger and missed a TON of recess, which I’m only now starting to get over. But that really helped me be confident with my vocal presentation and I think that served as a catalyst for being able to feel comfortable on stage.

What’s the best part
of your job?

When people tell me how much of an impact I had on their experience, that means the world to me. Whether it’s a kid’s first game, honoring someone with a recognition, or helping an organization meet their goals, these are incredibly special parts of what I do. I have to admit being there for big moments and meeting people I wouldn’t otherwise interact with - it’s very VERY cool.

How did you get the name “GameDay Conor”?

This is a great story - because I didn’t actually come up with the name! There was a member of the UConn Band named Tommy - hi Tommy! He played the tuba. I called him “Tuba Tommy” every time I saw him and he’d reply back “GameDay Conor”. I loved it and it has stuck ever since. Thanks, Tommy!

What’s the hardest part
of your job?

I can’t complain too much - it’s the coolest thing imaginable. But it can be exhausting and vocally draining. It takes a ton of energy after a long day to keep a crowd entertained for hours. Since GameDays are still my “side hustle” it can impact my daily life more than people may realize. I also hate when I don’t remember someone. I get a lot of “do you remember me” and it doesn’t always click, so I’m SORRY!

Why don’t you generally use a script?

I think it’s more authentic to present people in an
“un-scripted” way. Reading off a card, I mean anyone can do that. I also have this weird memory ability where I can recall and recite things very well, which I think increases the performative value. Obviously, there are times where a script may be required, but I prefer a more improvised and natural presentation

What’s the weirdest part
of your job?

I think it’s safe to say that I wasn’t quite expecting the level of recognition that I get. Stores, restaurants, the DMV, even spam callers are like “are you the guy from the games”? I don’t mind it at all - say hi! It is weird when people I know refer to me as a “celebrity”. Most celebrities don’t carry this much debt.