Three Leagues in Seven Hours: A Whirlwind Sport Business Trip to NYC
April 24, 2025By: Grace Wyatt '26
I’ve always known I wanted to work in sports. Even as a kid, I was drawn to the way a game could bring people together, how a single moment could stir up so much emotion. That passion has only grown over time, and after an incredible summer internship with the Akron Rubber Ducks, I’ve been searching for more ways to explore what direction in the sports world truly speaks to me. That’s why this trip to New York City with my sport business classmates at the University of Mount Union wasn’t just a travel opportunity, it felt like another step toward finding my place in something I’ve always dreamed about.
At 3:55 a.m., we crammed into a van, eyes still adjusting to the early morning darkness, buzzing with a mix of nerves and excitement. Dr. Jim Kadlecek and Professor Jake Augustin led the way as we made our way to Cleveland Hopkins Airport. Just a few hours later, we were stepping out into the fast, electric rhythm of New York City and I could feel something shift in me. I knew this was going to be a day I’d never forget.
Our first stop was Citi Field, home of the New York Mets. Walking into a major league stadium like that already felt surreal, but getting to sit down with four professionals from the ticketing and sales team took it to another level. They spoke with passion and honesty about their work and what fuels them, how they problem-solve, and what it takes to succeed in this industry. Hearing their stories made the dream feel more tangible, more real. I could picture myself there. I could feel it.
Wyatt poses with the Larry O'Brien NBA Championship Trophy.
The group of students standing on field at Citi Field.
Students pose at the NHL Offices in New York.
Next came Madison Square Garden, a place that feels larger than life even before you walk through its doors. It’s not just a venue, it’s a legacy. We heard from the people who keep that legacy running smoothly, managing a nonstop schedule of sports, concerts, and entertainment. It struck me just how much heart and hustle it takes to make it all happen. Being there reminded me that no matter how glamorous it may look from the outside, the real magic lives in the details and the people behind the curtain.
Our visit to NHL headquarters was full of energy and forward thinking. The staff spoke with a clear love for the game, but even more than that, they shared how intentional they are about reaching new audiences and growing the sport in fresh, exciting ways. That sense of innovation, of possibility, lit a spark in me.
After catching our breath and grabbing pizza in Times Square surrounded by the lights, the movement, the noise I looked around and felt this overwhelming sense of gratitude. We were right in the middle of one of the greatest cities in the world, talking about the careers we’ve only imagined until now.
Every stop on this trip gave me a new piece of the puzzle and helped me see my future in sports with more focus and fire than ever before.
In the afternoon, we visited the NBA offices and heard from professionals who spoke about global impact, community outreach, and the evolving digital landscape. It reminded me of why I fell in love with this industry in the first place because sports can change lives, lift communities, and inspire people around the world.
Our final stop was SportsBusiness Journal, where we saw the power of storytelling. The people there showed us how the stories behind the deals, the teams, and the trends are just as important as the headlines themselves. It made me think differently about the kind of voice I want to have in this space not just what I want to do, but how I want to make people feel.
By the time we made it back to Mount Union around 11 p.m., I was completely exhausted and completely full. Full of inspiration. Full of clarity. Full of hope. Every stop on this trip gave me a new piece of the puzzle and helped me see my future in sports with more focus and fire than ever before.
I’m so deeply thankful to Dr. Kadlecek, Professor Augustin, and the generous professionals who opened their doors and shared their stories. This trip reminded me that passion, when paired with curiosity and hard work, can open incredible doors. This trip brought the world of sport business to life and gave us all a new sense of excitement for what’s ahead.