Learning
From Classroom to Courtside: Real-World Lessons for Muskingum Students
Students in Muskingum University’s Sport Management program got to experience firsthand what it means to be a part of the action in the sports industry. From participating in the NCAA Final Four festivities to attending a professional sporting event, these trips gave them a look inside of the world they plan to enter.
Traveling to San Antonio for the NCAA Men’s Final Four matchups, students received a unique behind-the-scenes experience at one of college basketball’s biggest weekends. They gained valuable experience in a high-volume setting while relating classroom material to real-world scenarios.
“It's always a great resume builder to have that you worked at such a large mega scale event; so to have that on your résumé helped you stand out from others that might be applying to the same position. It's always a lot of fun too,” Associate Professor of Sport Management James Mattern said.
They also attended a sales training day with the Cleveland Cavaliers organization, providing insights into the sports industry from a management perspective. Through Mattern’s close connections with his prior teaching ventures, he was able to establish a relationship with Rock Entertainment, the Cavaliers’ parent company.
These experiences not only highlight the immediate impact on students’ professional growth, but also open doors to a multitude of future opportunities in the sports industry. By engaging directly with industry professionals, students build networks that can lead to internships, job placements, and mentorships. The program’s ongoing partnerships and expanding connections promise even more immersive experiences in the coming years, ensuring that students are continuously exposed to evolving trends and best practices within the sport management field.
This dynamic approach prepares them not just to enter the industry, but to thrive and lead within it. Future opportunities include trips to the NCAA Division I Football Championships, the Super Bowl, and various conferences and events, creating an ever more promising future for students in the program.
