Fratto named Sky Blue FC public address announcer

Sky Blue FC fans might recognize the booming voice announcing starting lineups, goals, assists and other promotional activities at Yurcak Field this summer.

Mark Fratto, the SBFC's new public address announcer, brings a wide range of experience to the microphone.

Fratto will also be the PA guy for the New York FC, the new MLS club, and brings more than 20 years of experience - estimated at about 1,000 game - to the booth.

"We are very pleased to add someone with the talent and experience that Mark has to our team," said Tony Novo, Sky Blue FC President & General Manager. "Mark has a rich background that encompasses the entire sports landscape, and we know he will add an exciting element to our game day experience."

Fratto's experience spans a myriad of leagues, sports and teams. Through the years, he's worked as the Public Address Announcer for the Westchester Knicks (NBA D-League), Brooklyn Cyclones (Minor League Baseball), Brooklyn Bolts (FXFL), NCAA Division I basketball games at Madison Square Garden, and as a reserve announcer for the New York Liberty (WNBA), among many other events.

He recently served as the voice of the NBA D-League All-Star Weekend and worked the NYPD-NBA Legends Game at Barclays Center during the 2015 NBA All-Star Weekend in New York City.

"Soccer is one of the fastest-growing sports in America, and I'm looking forward to becoming a part of the beautiful game in the New Jersey/New York area with both Sky Blue FC and NYCFC," Fratto said. "It's a unique privilege for me to have a chance to call matches in the Bronx and on the New Jersey side during both squads' 2015 seasons."

Due to Fratto's schedule, Sky Blue FC has come up with a Plan B when he can't be there. Frato's associate Siddique Farooqi has been signed his back-up for the season. Over the last four years, Farooqi has worked as a Public Address Announcer at Hofstra University and St. Johns University. Additionally, he has announced for the Brooklyn Cyclones (Minor League Baseball), United Football League, Long Island Lizards (Major League Lacrosse), Manhattan College, NYIT, Molloy College and CCNY Athletics. Farooqi was also a semifinalist during a talent search by WFAN to win a show on their radio station.