I didnt know what to expect when starting this project, but coming out, I have to say my excitement to work in the sports industry is through the roof. Right when we started our SPM class, we were given the idea that it was okay not to know what we wanted to do. Honestly, that frightened me. Im the kind of person who needs to be driven in a certain direction, or I tend to drift off; and not fully apply myself. I think I have a better understanding of what facit I truly want to get involved in, in this industry. The areas of the industry that I found myself most intrigued by were agency and development. It drew to me how both involved building relationships with your clients; friendships even. Ive always been a people person, so talking to people and making people comfortable is really up my alley. I decided I wanted to interview someone involved in development and someone involved in a sports agency. I know its just extra work considering I was supposed to focus
on one topic here. But I see this assignment as a way to look into what I want to do. I was lucky enough to be able to interview two very impactful people each in their departments. The first person I interviewed was a man named Brian Smith; his position is the Assistant Athletic Director of Development at UCLA. He works with the Wooden Athletic Fund, which raises money to put towards the athletic programs at the college. It was a great interview, but Ill get into that later on. I have to say my next interview had to be my favorite, if not one of my favorite conversations Ive had with anyone yet. The interview was with a guy by the name of Daren Flitcroft. He is the Director of Global Soccer at Wasserman Media Group. Wasserman is one of the biggest sports agencies out there, and it was an honor to be able to speak to the director of global soccer when soccer is my biggest sporting passion. I look forward to sharing what Ive gained through my extensive research.