Staff

Brandon Ikard enters his third season as Commissioner of the National Arena League after recently agreeing to a three-year contract extension to continue leading the NAL through its next phase of growth. During his tenure, Ikard has focused on strengthening league operations, expanding national partnerships, increasing the NAL’s media and digital presence, and creating greater stability across its member organizations. Under his leadership, the league enters its milestone Season X with an expanded 10-team membership, continued investment in broadcast and digital infrastructure, and the introduction of the National Bowl as the new identity of the NAL Championship Game. Ikard will continue working alongside the league’s Board of Directors and member organizations to strengthen the NAL’s foundation while positioning the league for sustainable long-term growth.

Steven Shotola serves as the National Arena League’s Director of NAL Life, leading the continued development and growth of the league’s NAL Life program. Building upon the program’s existing foundation, Shotola will focus on expanding its reach and highlighting the people, stories, communities, and experiences that make up the National Arena League beyond the field. As Director, he will work with league leadership, member organizations, players, and communities to develop NAL Life into a stronger part of the league’s overall identity heading into Season X.

Craig Helser returns as the National Arena League’s Director of Officials for Season X, continuing his leadership of the league’s officiating program. Helser oversees the coordination, development, and evaluation of NAL officials while working to promote consistency in officiating standards and the application of league playing rules across all NAL markets. As the league enters its 10th season, Helser will continue working with league leadership and officiating crews to strengthen the NAL’s officiating program and maintain consistent standards throughout the season.

Jim Meunier returns for his second year as Director of Digital Media for the National Arena League after helping lead significant growth in the league’s social media engagement and overall digital visibility during his first season. Meunier oversees the NAL’s digital media strategy, social platforms, and league-wide content efforts, working to expand the league’s reach while showcasing its teams, players, partners, and stories. Heading into Season X, he will continue building on that momentum as the NAL further expands its digital presence and fan engagement.

Jeff Blumenauer begins his first season as Director of Broadcast Operations for the National Arena League, bringing experience in arena football broadcasting, multimedia, and league coverage to the position. In his role, Blumenauer will focus on strengthening the consistency and presentation of broadcasts across NAL markets while working with member organizations and broadcast personnel to further develop the league-wide viewing experience. As the NAL enters Season X, he will also play a key role in the continued growth of the league’s broadcast strategy and expanding how fans experience NAL football throughout the season.