Hart School students attend national Sports Industry Networking and Career Conference

By Phil Hiatt

Students of James Madison University’s Hart School of Hospitality, Sport and Recreation Management had the opportunity to participate in the national Sports Industry Networking and Career Conference on February 25-26, in Washington, D.C.

The trip was a joint effort between Sigma Rho Mu and SLAM, the Sport and Leisure Association of Madison. Held on the campus of George Washington University, the conference provided students with opportunities to learn about the sports industry and network with professionals.

David Shonk, director of the sport and recreation management program, has been participating in SINC with students for many years. Having seen the benefits of the conference time and time again, he said, “Many of our students have been able to secure internships and full-time jobs through the relationships built at the conference. In addition, it was always great to see students meet new friends and develop professionally at the SINC Conference.”

Funding was provided by the Crotty Foundation, allowing students to attend keynote addresses and one-on-one discussions with leaders of the industry, including ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Mark Cobb of the NFLPA.

Gavin Ferguson, a senior majoring in sport and recreation management, saw first-hand the positive impact of the conference. “I’m so grateful to the faculty and alumni that made this trip possible. It was an incredible opportunity to network with industry professionals and create real industry contacts. We all learned so much and had a lot of fun doing so.”

Fellow student Tareq Rafiq echoed Ferguson’s words. “I am extremely appreciative of the students and faculty that assisted with organizing this trip. From networking and building relationships with students from around the county, to picking the brain of the industry professionals. I felt the trip provided lessons that I will implement in the future.”