How did you get to where you are now in the sports industry?
My path has been a wild ride that has taken me all over the country. I started my career as a Game Operations Intern with the Arizona Coyotes while finishing college. Eleven days after graduation, I packed up dog and my car and moved across the country to work as the Game Operations Intern with the Grand Rapids Griffins. After my season contract finished with the Griffins, I was offered the opportunity to be the Game Operations Manager with the Colorado Eagles. During my season with the Eagles, the Arizona Coyotes and Tucson Roadrunners asked if I was interested in running the game entertainment department with the Tucson Roadrunners. The opportunity was too good to pass up, and I became the Manager of Game Presentation with the Tucson Roadrunners. The pandemic hit and I was left without a sports job. While I waited for a chance for sports to return, I worked as a marketing manager for a local scientist until a professional friend with the Arizona Cardinals reached out and offered me the position of Coordinator of Game Entertainment & Special Events. During my season with the Cardinals, I had the opportunity to freelance as the Game Director for the Arizona Rattlers. It is because of my experiences, that when my current role of Manager of Entertainment Experience with the Vegas Golden Knights opened, I was the right candidate for the job. In short, my connections within the sports entertainment industry as well as my skillset and worth ethic got me to be where I am today. A lot of luck and right place/right time helped too.
What is your role within the Foley Entertainment Group?
Manager, Entertainment Experience - I help make sure all our fans are entertained and enjoy the VGK game day experience.
What is one of the greatest challenges of being a woman in sports?
My greatest challenge of being a woman in sports is having to work twice as hard to be considered just as good as my male counterparts. I don't feel that way about my coworkers at VGK, but just working in sports in general. I often get asked if I'm looking for a husband or things along that line. It's unfortunate, but it's just how it is. I hope this changes in the future. I also have a difficult time finding clothing that is flattering but doesn't sexualize me. It can be tough.
What are the most rewarding things about working in sports?
In my role specifically, and it sounds super corny, but I love creating long-lasting memories for our fans. Growing up, I loved going to hockey games with my dad; they are some of my best and favorite memories. To be able to help create that for others is a privilege I do not take lightly. I also love being a positive role model for other young girls. I have a sister who is about to graduate high school and is heavily involved in sports video editing. I'd like to think I had a small influence/impact on her believing in herself to pursue that career path.
Any advice for other women trying to break into the sports world?
You are magic and this industry wants and needs your magic. Don't let anyone or anything get your way. If you want it, you can make it happen. This industry is all about who you know. You need to be able to back your connections up with the right attitude, work ethic, and quality work, but creating a strong network is everything in the sports world. Don't be shy to reach out to strangers and make friends, they might just be the reason you land your dream job one day.
