Allie Krings Q&A
Photo from Allie’s Instagram
Hi there! I’m starting a Q&A series so you can get to know more about the careers, stories and advice from hosts and reporters across a variety of industries! First up is Allie Krings, the Host for the Tampa Bay Rays. I came in contact with Allie last Fall and wanted to pick her brain about her role as the Rays Host. Before I knew it, we were chatting on the phone for almost an hour…and she spent her birthday giving me advice and encouragement! Between her experience hosting at the University of Minnesota, time with the Rays organization and other opportunities she’s been involved with she has tons of great advice and experience when it comes to pursuing a career as a host.
What made you want to pursue a career in hosting?
I started working in sports as a freshman at the University of Minnesota, working for an incredible program, Gopher Digital Productions. Before sideline reporting for the school, I learned the entire control room -- from show control and chyron to camera operating. Through this experience, I totally fell in love with game presentation. There's a team on the field, and there's a team in the control room ensuring the show goes on. Being able to work with people, enhance their experience and become more invested in their favorite team is a treat.
In 2019, you landed the job as the Rays host… how did you land that role?
I got really lucky! Opportunities in sport are few and far between. After seeing the opportunity online, my cohost and former Tampa Bay Rays In-game host, Rusty Kath, reached out to their department to express interest. There was a phone interview, a Skype call, and I had the chance to "audition" by hosting two Rays games. I was (and still am) immediately blown away by the importance the Rays place on guest experience and the understanding that the Host has a huge impact on that, and I am so happy to have a found a home with such a passionate crew.
What does a typical game day look like for you? How do you prepare?
I arrive at the stadium about four hours before game time, read the script, prepare my reads and do any necessary research pertaining to guests we may have that day.
What are some of your favorite on-air beauty products?
There's two things I can't live without: eyelashes and a lip stain. The Sephora Cream Matte Lip Stain #13, to be specific, has been my favorite shade and lip product since 2015. I apply it once, and it stays on all day!
You recently started hosting for Disney on Ice and Monster Jam. How are they similar and different from each other?
It's incredible family friendly entertainment! From a hosting standpoint, it's very similar to what I do with the Rays -- ensure our fans feel like guests in our home.
Disney On Ice is a show - it's scripted, while Monster Jam is a live motorsport event. The scripting for Disney on Ice was a unique challenge to overcome. On some days, we would perform three times a day. It is important to give each audience the energy and performance they deserve - even when I might not be feeling so fresh. Walking out into each crowd, seeing so many kids dressed in their favorite Disney costumes and smiling ear to ear is so energizing.
Monster Jam, being unscripted and full of surprises, has it's own unique challenges! Like any live event anything can happen, so you always have to be on your toes! I feel really lucky to have been put on a team alongside two talented and hardworking hosts and an AV team that's always on the ball. A lot of people don't realize how much works goes on up in the control room, and our AV team puts out a lot of fires. Without an incredible AV team, a host can't perform their job. Matter of fact, I know I am better at my job because my AV team is always setting me up for success.
What were the job application processes like for Disney on Ice and Monster Jam?
I auditioned for Monster Jam in Chicago back in April of 2019. I had a callback later that day in April, and then another callback in August. Both properties are produced by FELD Entertainment Studios. When Disney on Ice needed a host, FELD reached out to me having seen me in the Monster Jam auditions. It's amazing working for a company that wants to see their employees flourish and grow, and I am so grateful for the unique experiences I have had with Disney on Ice and Monster Jam.
You’ve traveled to arenas around the country, which one is your favorite and why?
I just got back from TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, FL for an event with Monster Jam, and I've got to say that it was incredible. The venue is ENORMOUS! We even had the opportunity to step out on top of the video boards at the stadium to get an exclusive peak of the Jacksonville views. To be fair, I look forward to seeing the baseball stadiums most, so Petco Park in San Diego, CA was also a sweet destination.
What has been the most important thing you’ve learned as an in-arena host?
While the host may get the "glory", it's the team in the control room making you look like a superstar. I am so thankful of my time at Gopher Digital Experience because I was able to learn of the work they put in, and am so grateful for all they do.
What is the best part about your job?
I love meeting all of our fans, especially the kids! Whether it's Tampa Bay Rays, Disney on Ice, or Monster Jam fans, I love getting to spend a minute with anyone I meet to share my knowledge and passion for the group. A fan might come to a game hoping to meet their favorite player, but realistically, that might not happen. That's when I have the incredible opportunity to represent our organization and make an impact. I am so proud to work for these organizations, so I really enjoy the opportunity to leave that impact.
What advice do you have for someone that wants to be an in-game or in-arena host?
Start talking! Any time you can talk in front of people, do it! Whether it's 10 or 10,000 it's so important to get comfortable in front of people. The job itself is mostly about people and ensuring they have the best time possible at the event. Know that when you get on the mic, you are representing yourself, the team and the entire organization.
Follow along on Allie’s journey through her Instagram and show her some support as baseball season ramps up! If you have a host or reporter you want me to interview next, let me know in the Contact section or leave a comment below.