Masters in Sports Management
A genuine passion for sports
MaKynna Lesinski
"Ever since I was a little girl, I've known that I wanted to be a teacher, and sports have always been a big part of my life."
MaKynna's Journey
If you’ve ever wondered what skills someone would need to have entering the field of Sports Management, we caught up with MaKynna Lesinski to find out.
According to MaKynna, entering the sports industry demands a blend of essential qualities that include:
- A genuine passion for sports.
- Resilience in navigating the industry's competitive and often unpredictable nature.
- Adaptability, given the ever-evolving landscape of sports, requiring individuals to embrace change and stay relevant.
- Effective communication skills, facilitating interactions with athletes, sponsors, and fans alike.
- A strong spirit of teamwork to foster collaboration, essential for success, both on and off the field.
- Leadership abilities are invaluable for guiding teams and initiatives toward common objectives.
- Understanding the business aspects of sports, including marketing and finance, is fundamental for making informed decisions.
- A willingness to build a robust network within the industry providing opportunities for growth and support.
- Finally, the capacity to perform under pressure and a commitment to continuous learning.
As a full-time teacher working 40-hour weeks, MaKynna needed the flexibility of online education. Online learning allowed her to integrate her studies seamlessly into an already busy schedule, advancing both her teaching career and her aspirations in the sports sector. Her passion for the sports industry motivated her to leverage her teaching experience with opportunities within sports management or similar fields.
"Ever since I was a little girl, I've known that I wanted to be a teacher, and sports have always been a big part of my life. I became a PE/Health teacher because I wanted to pass on my love for sports to my students. Every day in class, I teach them about living a healthy lifestyle, and I also try to show them how much fun sports can be. Being a PE/Health teacher is more than just a job to me – it's a chance to share my passion and make a positive impact on young lives. I want my students to leave my class feeling excited about being active and understanding the importance of taking care of their bodies."
As for her advice to new students, MaKynna had the following tips to share:
- Entering the sports industry requires a strategic approach. Start by gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level roles to familiarize yourself with industry dynamics.
- Networking is key—attend industry events and connect with professionals to expand your contacts and opportunities.
- Consider specializing in a specific aspect of the industry to develop expertise and stand out in the job market.
- Stay informed about industry trends and developments to remain competitive.
- Cultivate soft skills like communication and adaptability, as they are highly valued in the industry.
- Persistence is crucial; be prepared to face challenges and setbacks along the way.
- Showcase your genuine passion for sports in all your interactions, as enthusiasm can be a distinguishing factor.