How did working with the Perfect Game Foundation help you?

Del and The Perfect Game Foundation has had such a big influence on me this past year. The connections and opportunities this foundation have are limitless. The Foundation truly cares about taking students to the next level and preparing them for any interview, job, and situation. I have grown tremendously by being a part of the Foundation. Del has allowed me to make connections all around the country with professionals in the sports industry as well as other Fellows who are on the same journey as I am. I can’t wait to see how else TPGF impacts my life these next few years and what more relationships I will gain from this opportunity.

What advice would you pass on (pay forward!) to others who aspire to work in sports?

The sports industry is unlike anything you have ever experienced. It takes hard work, motivation, relationships, and a positive attitude always to obtain the opportunity to step foot into an interview in this field. It is more competitive than any sport you have ever played, so you really have to put in the off-season work in order to be able to compete when it’s game time. That’s why TPGF is perfect for preparing us for our future careers. You have to be able to persevere in this world. You will get passed up on jobs simply because another applicant had connections at that workplace. It’s how this industry works. Build those relationships, be personable, know what you want, and set goals for yourself in order to reach your dream job in the future.

One thing I have learned by being a part of this foundation that I would love to pass on to others in the same position as me is to start as early as possible working jobs in the field and doing internships. Hands-on experience is better than anything you will read in a textbook in your college courses. I have gained a tremendous amount of knowledge working hands-on with a multitude of sports now and it has only made me more well-rounded and prepared for my future endeavors. Lastly, build relationships, not just connections. Get to actually know the people you have met in the industry instead of just using their names to put on a job application. There is so much potential to learn from these relationships you build. Ask the questions and learn from them.

Competition is good for us, it makes us stronger and better prepared. Use this competitive industry to fuel a fire for you. It will take hard work and motivation in order to succeed but it’s all up to you as to how badly you want it!