A sports management program for teens on a university campus in Ann Arbor

Successful management is essential across all areas of the sport industry—whether professional, amateur, collegiate, club, public, or private. Regardless of the type of organization, key management elements remain consistent: personnel management, program development, marketing, information management, facilities management, and legal responsibilities. Depending on your interests, a career in sport management could involve working directly with athletes, coaches, and organizations or supporting roles such as promoter, marketing manager, or sports economist. This course focuses on the business side of sports management and offers exposure to the various career paths available in the field. Students will also engage with industry leaders and explore local sports venues, gaining valuable insights into sports management and operations.

Last summer, students had the unique opportunity to tour the Toledo Mud Hens’ operations, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how a professional sports team functions daily. The excitement continued with a visit to the Big House, the largest stadium in the United States, where students learned about its history and the challenges involved in managing such an iconic venue. These hands-on experiences provide students with a real-world understanding of the sports industry and inspire them to explore future career opportunities. Through the program, students build a foundational knowledge of the sport industry, explore various management aspects, apply business principles, and discuss current challenges facing athletes and the industry today.