Mastering the Field of Sport Management - April 2026

Mastering the Field of Sport Management

Welcome to the Sport Management Newsletter!

As we enter the final month of the semester, the Sport Management program continues to build momentum with exciting opportunities, student achievements, and meaningful experiences April marks an important time to reflect on growth while finishing the academic year strong before summer begins

This month’s newsletter highlights students gaining valuable hands-on experience through prestigious internships, industry visits, and classroom learning brought to life From Augusta National to professional sports organizations, HPU students continue expanding their knowledge beyond campus These opportunities allow students to apply what they have learned in real-world settings They also continue building confidence, connections, and professional skills for the future

We also celebrate inspiring leadership moments through executive speakers, alumni connections, and organizations creating meaningful impact across the department and wider campus community each month. These experiences continue to prepare students for successful futures in the sports industry

As the semester comes to a close, we hope these stories showcase the passion, drive, and dedication within our community Thank you for following along, and we hope you enjoy this month’s edition

A s op

National Masters Tournament Internship, gaining behind-the-scenes experience at one of the most prestigious events in sports The internship offers hands-on roles in event operations, hospitality, and business management at Augusta National Golf Club, while helping steward the Masters brand and deliver the tournament experience to audiences around the world It is a unique opportunity to learn within an organization known globally for excellence, tradition, and world-class execution Experiences like this provide valuable preparation for future careers in all fields.

the iconic tournament this spring Known for its unmatched attention to detail and elite event standards, the Masters provides an incredible learning environment for aspiring professionals looking to grow in the industry Kehle shared her excitement to learn from industry leaders in event operations and hospitality while bringing her own energy, professionalism, and passion for sports to the experience Her selection reflects continued hard work, dedication, and the strong preparation of HPU students entering the sports industry She gained insight that few students have the chance to experience firsthand.

Highlights and Events

A Stanford alum, Boone shared insight into his career path and experiences working within collegiate athletics

landscape of collegiate sports Students also gained insight into how to prepare for future roles in the field.

Sport Law

Students in SMG 3040 Sport Law stepped into the roles of lawyers and witnesses this semester, participating in mock trials on negligence in sport environments From opening statements to cross-examinations, students strengthened critical thinking, communication, and legal analysis skills through a valuable hands-on experience

This semester’s trials were elevated through live proceedings in the HPU School of Law courtrooms The experience was enhanced by law students who mentored participants and served as judges A special thank you to Kiera Shea, Charles Baker, and Andrew Killgore for sharing expertise and helping bring sport law to life this spring ex op in th th Ba da pe w

In addition to his role at HPU, Jacobson has gained valuable experience as an Operations Intern with the Wilmington Sharks and as a FlightScope Operator with Prospect Select, greatly expanding his skills in game-day operations, data collection, and player evaluation Through involvement with the Sport Management Association, he has also grown his professional network and connected with industry leaders After graduation, Jacobson hopes to pursue a career in data analytics or general management within the sports industry He is passionate about using numbers and strategy to improve team success Jacobson’s advice to students is to get involved early in your college career, seek hands-on opportunities, and step outside your comfort zone He also encourages students to advocate for themselves, as those moments often create the greatest personal growth

departments that work together to create suc pro op

Stu Ma an a s Ca Mo Joy, and Grit, where she shared valuable lessons from her remarkable journey in sports, business, and executive leadership From breaking barriers in the corporate world to leading one of the NBA’s most recognizable organizations, her story highlighted the impact of purpose and leading others through change She also encouraged students to trust their path, even when success does not follow a straight line.

career opportunities in professional sports all oy me

obstacles, while also reminding students that setbacks can become opportunities for growth and future success ahead in their journey She challenged students to define success through service, character, and consistency rather than titles alone Her message left students inspired and deeply motivated to pursue their goals with confidence, character, and determination as they prepare for future careers.

April Review & Summer Playbook

As the academic year comes to a close, we are proud to celebrate the growth, accomplishments, and dedication shown throughout the Sport Management program From internships and industry experiences to leadership opportunities, classroom success, and campus involvement, our students have continued to raise the standard Their hard work has made this year one to remember.

Thank you to our students, alumni, faculty, and supporters who make this community so special. Your energy, commitment, mentorship, and willingness to give back continue to create opportunities that positively impact the next generation of sport professionals The strength of this network is one of the greatest assets of our program We are grateful for the support that continues to drive our success Together, we continue building something special

We look forward to seeing all of the exciting summer plans ahead and following the continued success of our students in the months to come this summer and beyond Whether gaining experience through internships, travel, or new opportunities, we know great things are ahead Have a great summer, and we will see you at the start of the next school year in August 2026.

If you have questions, ideas for the newsletter, or would like to nominate a student or alum for recognition, please reach out to Faith Anne Yeley at fyeley@highpoint edu Your contributions truly help celebrate achievements, highlight passions, and support one another throughout the department. Let’s continue this academic year proudly and show what makes High Point University exceptional Together, we can make a difference!

Thank you for reading!

On the Field: Networking Contacts

Gaining skills in marketing, events, and partnerships through various sport internships, Addison Graham is passionate about growing in the sports industry Feel free to connect with her on LinkedIn to continue building your professional network

Building valuable experience through prestigious opportunities such as the Augusta National Masters Tournament Internship, Kehle is passionate about event operations and growing within the sports industry Connect with her on LinkedIn to follow her career journey

Developing her legal expertise as a J.D. Candidate at the Kenneth F Kahn School of Law, Shea is passionate about mentorship, advocacy, and supporting future professionals through hands-on learning experiences Connect with her on LinkedIn to follow her journey

Charles Baker

As a J.D. Candidate at the High Point University Kenneth F Kahn School of Law, Baker is passionate about helping students bridge classroom learning with real-world experience Feel free to connect with him on LinkedIn to expand your professional network

On the Field: Networking Contacts

Andrew Killgore

Developing his legal expertise as a J D Candidate at the Kenneth F Kahn School of Law, Killgore is passionate about leadership and creating opportunities through meaningful student involvement Connect with him on LinkedIn to follow his journey

Applying his passion for sports through analytics and operations, Jacobson has gained experience with HPU Baseball, the Wilmington Sharks, and Prospect Select Feel free to connect with him on LinkedIn to continue building your professional network

Grady Moyer

Balancing success as a Track and Field student-athlete while pursuing a Sport Management major and Spanish minor, Moyer is passionate about leadership, competition, and professional growth

Feel free to connect with her on LinkedIn to follow her career journey

Cynt Marshall

Known for her transformational leadership as former President and CEO of the Dallas Mavericks, Marshall is passionate about faith, service, and empowering others to lead with purpose Connect with her on LinkedIn to follow her journey and leadership impact