Articles by author: bl20ar

  • Jacob Snow – Exit Blog – Marketing, Communications, and Events Coordinator

    Thursday, December 12, 2024 | By

    The past four months at the Centre for Sport Capacity (CSC) have been a highly immersive and rewarding experience, offering numerous opportunities for growth. Throughout my time here, I have taken on a variety of roles and responsibilities that have greatly expanded both my skill set and professional knowledge. 

    As the Marketing, Communications, and Event Coordinator, I was entrusted with the responsibility of planning and coordinating a wide range of projects for the CSC. With each project I completed, I experienced significant personal and professional development. My duties included sharing information across various platforms, such as LinkedIn, CSC website, Facebook, Instagram, and Experience BU. As the lead for communications, I handled communication with partners and members and supervised other staff at the CSC. Additionally, I took charge of event planning and successfully organized and coordinated three distinct events—two in-person and one online. I further developed and enhanced many different skills such as: 

    • Working independently and adapting to new situations 
    • Effectively convey and receive information, both formally and informally, using verbal, non-verbal, and writing skills to different audiences in diverse situations 
    • Developing a plan, asking for feedback, and applying it 
    • Assessing information and exercise sound reasoning to analyze issues, apply knowledge, make decisions, reflect, and overcome problems. 

    The accomplishment that I am most proud of from my time at CSC is organizing the Matt Hoven event that was centered around the Ontario tour of his book Hockey Priest: Father David Bauer and the Spirit of the Canadian Game. I was assigned the event lead and was responsible for the planning and promotion of the event. I mapped out the operational plan from start to finish featuring the catering, lay-out, partnerships, A/V, and coordinating with the speaker series. 

    Furthermore, I played a lead role in planning for the Measuring Impact in Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation webinar with guest speaker Canadian Parks and Recreation (CPRA) CEO, Martin Sampson, analyzing CSC metrics, and the Meridian Centre Impact Report.  

    One of the most rewarding experiences for me was managing social media for the CSC. I explored various communication strategies and reviewed different designs to determine which would most effectively convey the message I wanted the audience to understand. Creating 30 posts across both LinkedIn and Instagram platforms, I really deepened my understanding of strategic sports marketing and social media management. 

    The internship experience specifically with the CSC, has provided me with the opportunity to apply the practical knowledge that I inherited from the sport management course work as well as showcase and enhance my existing skills from my past job experiences. It helped broaden my perspective of the sport industry and opened the door for many future career pathways. It has more than exceeded my expectations coming in and is an opportunity I have not taken for granted.  

    I would highly recommend any future SPMA student to get involved with the CSC at any chance that they get. It is a highly coveted organization that offers its staff to experience different sets of learning opportunities and different areas of interest. The organization allowed me to work independently and the ability to leave my mark at the CSC. The position gave me a newfound confidence to move forward as a future sport industry professional and for that I am extremely grateful.  

    I also want to thank my supervisors at the Centre, Dr. Julie Stevens and Grace Nelson, for their support over the last four months. It was an honour and a privilege to work at the CSC as Marketing, Communications, and Event Coordinator. I am incredibly grateful for the trust that was placed in me to work through various projects. Each of their mentorship and constructive feedback played a significant role in helping me expand my skills and knowledge.  

    Thank you for providing such a positive and inspiring work environment. I truly appreciate all the opportunities you’ve given me to learn, grow, and contribute to the team. 

     

    Categories: Blog, Students

  • Aranesh Pahwa – Entry Blog, Marketing, Communications, and Events Assistant

    Wednesday, November 13, 2024 | By

    The world of sport has always been an integral part of my life, from watching competitions to engaging in sport myself. It has shaped who I am today and how I see the world around me. So, when the opportunity to intern at The Centre for Sport Capacity (CSC) came up, I knew it was the perfect fit for me to continue my journey within the sports sector. 

    Hello! I am Aranesh Pahwa, a fourth-year Business Communication student at Brock University, also minoring in Digital Culture. Coming from India, sport in my home country brought people together in a powerful way, fostering community and a sense of belonging. Now, as an international student, I have the opportunity to contribute to the sport community here in Canada through my internship at the CSC. Joining the CSC team felt like stepping into a hub of creativity, collaboration, and innovation, where each day presented new opportunities to learn and contribute to the sport community. 

    My Brock Experience: A Foundation for Growth 

    My time at Brock University has been a transformative journey, both academically and personally. As a Business Communication student with a minor in Digital Culture, I have had the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics that have helped me develop the skills necessary for success in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving world. Brock’s unique focus on experiential learning and collaboration has been central to my growth as a communicator and has prepared me to take on challenging roles like my internship at the CSC. 

    How my Brock Experience led me to the CSC 

    It was through Brock’s strong emphasis on experiential learning that I first learned about the opportunity at the CSC. As part of my program, I was encouraged to seek internships that aligned with my career goals and interests. The course COMM 4F00 has helped me a lot .The CSC stood out as an organization that not only offered hands-on experience but also combined two of my passions: sport and communication. 

    The support from my professor Dr Kate Cassidy, along with my growing interest in sport management, pushed me to apply for the role. I knew that the skills I had developed during my time at Brock, especially in digital marketing and event planning, would make me a strong candidate for the position.  

    How I Came Across the CSC: A Perfect Match for my    Passion 

    As someone deeply passionate about the intersection of sport and communication, I was always on the lookout for opportunities that could combine these interests. While exploring internship options, I came across the CSC through a fellow student and became immediately intrigued by their unique approach to blending research with real-world impact in the sport sector. The CSC offered exactly what I was looking for—a place where I could apply my skills while contributing to meaningful projects in sport management. 

    What Drew me to the CSC 

    The moment I learned more about the CSC, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Several factors drew me to the Centre: 

    • Hands-on Experience in Sport Management: The CSC’s focus on experiential learning and direct involvement in sport-related projects immediately appealed to me. I was excited by the idea of contributing to projects that would have a real-world impact on the sport community in Niagara and beyond. The combination of research, marketing, and event management aligned perfectly with my interests. 
    • A Platform for Growth: I saw the CSC as a place where I could grow both professionally and personally. The opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals like Dr. Julie Stevens and Grace Nelson, who are leaders in their fields, meant that I would be able to learn from the best while also bringing my own ideas to the table. 
    • Contributing to the Sport Sector: Having grown up in India, where sport has the power to unite people, I wanted to be part of an organization that used sport as a tool for positive change. The CSC’s commitment to supporting sport organizations through research and practical solutions resonated with my personal values and career goals.

    Why I was Excited to Join the CSC 

    What truly excited me about becoming part of the CSC was the chance to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting while working on projects that mattered. From the start, I knew that this would be an internship where I could contribute meaningfully, develop new skills, and be part of an organization that’s making a difference in the sport sector. 

    The variety of tasks—ranging from social media management to event planning—also drew me in. The prospect of working on projects like the SportService initiative and helping organize events and workshops. 

    Skills I Bring to the CSC 

     Throughout my academic and extracurricular experiences, I’ve honed skills valuable to my role at the CSC: 

    • Digital Marketing and Social Media: Managing social media for Brock student organizations, including the Indian Student Association, has sharpened my digital marketing abilities, from creating engaging content to tracking analytics and enhancing audience engagement. 
    • Event Planning and Coordination: Organizing events has built my expertise in budgeting, logistics, promotion, and on-site execution skills essential in coordinating CSC activities. 
    • Communication and Collaboration: As a Business Communication student, clear communication and teamwork are strengths I rely on for coordinating with stakeholders and promoting events at CSC. 
    • Leadership and Problem-Solving: Serving as treasurer and president of the Brock Indian Student Association developed my problem-solving and multitasking abilities, which I apply to leadership roles within CSC projects, driving team success.

    As I move forward, I am excited to continue applying and learning the skills I have gained here tofor future roles and challenges. The CSC is truly a platform for growth, collaboration, and impact—an experience I will carry with me throughout my career journey. I look forward to seeing how the knowledge and connections I will build during my time at the CSC will shape my future in sport management and beyond. 

     

    Categories: Students

  • Bismanbir Singh – Entry Blog, Marketing, Communications, and Events Assistant

    Wednesday, November 06, 2024 | By

    Sport has been a major part my life since I was young. I have played a range of sports and have participated at national level in Field Hockey and Roller Hockey. Also, I started swimming at a young age and competed in state level championships throughout my time in secondary school. Swimming was the first sport where I experienced success.  Our Roller Hockey team was a national champion back in 2019, maintaining an ongoing streak of being champions from the past 6 years. My biggest achievement was when I got selected as one of the top 24 players to represent my country.  Sport can be a positive way to promote physical fitness and teamwork throughout the world. The journey has been quite long, but my passion for sport will always remain the same, and my passion for sport is one of the reasons why I am excited to intern at Centre for Sport Capacity (CSC).

    Hi! My name is Bismanbir Singh, and I am an international student from India. I live in Chandigarh, Punjab . It is one of the most beautiful cities of India. I am currently in my 4th year pursing a major in Business Communication and a minor in Media Studies, with graduation set for April 2025. I love watching and following different sports. My favourite sport to watch is Hockey (Field Hockey and Roller Hockey), I have started to follow Ice hockey since I’ve moved to Canada and to get back on field as soon as possible. I played at KBDAV Senior Secondary School which is well known for hosting many national level Championships. This year I will be interning as the Marketing, Event, and Communications Assistant at the Centre for Sport Capacity (CSC) at Brock University.

    I discovered the chance to be a part of the CSC team by going through the course calendar when searching for a a COMM 4F00 placement. Being an avid sport supporter, the opportunity to combine my passion with knowledge acquired in Business Communication and Media Studies was something I could not miss. The lessons I hope to learn at the CSC include increasing the capacity of sport organizations, working with the community, as well as marketing and event planning.  the most thrilling aspect about this position is that it blends sport and expertise in strategic communications and the management of events. I am particularly proud of my skills as an organizer, creative, and team player,  which will be beneficial for CSC’s future activities. I think this place is one of the best to put into practice all the communication skills acquired throughout the program while serving the community in the sporting field.

    My Brock experience has been instrumental in leading me to the Centre for Sport Capacity (CSC). Throughout my time in the Business Communication program, I’ve gained a strong foundation in Professional Communication, Media Analysis, and Public Relations, all of which are critical to my role at the CSC. Courses like Research Methods in Communication and Culture helped me develop analytical skills, which I now apply to understanding the impact of sports communication strategies. My involvement in Brock’s diverse academic and extracurricular activities also exposed me to various networking opportunities, ultimately leading me to the CSC placement through the course calendar. Brock’s emphasis on experiential learning, combined with my passion for sports, naturally steered me toward the CSC, where I can apply the skills I’ve developed and contribute meaningfully to sports capacity-building projects.

    At the Centre for Sport Capacity, I am most excited about applying and refining my skills in Professional Communication and Public Relations. Managing social media for the CSC allows me to use my knowledge of Networks, Digital Identities, and Interactions to engage and grow our audience while ensuring our messaging remains consistent and impactful. I am also eager to develop further insights into Media Analysis and Audience Studies as I work on projects like the State of Sport in Niagara Report – Webinar and Workshop. The opportunity to contribute to the Fee-for-service Model project will also be a great way to explore Organizational Culture and how integrated marketing communications can influence the development of new service offerings. Lastly, I am looking forward to organizing events like the Matt Hoven “Hockey Priest” Author Reading and Book Signing, where my event management and research skills will truly shine.

    In conclusion, my journey with sports has shaped not only my personal development but also my professional aspirations. As I step into my role at the Centre for Sport Capacity, I am thrilled to merge my lifelong passion for sports with the skills I have honed through my Business Communication program. This internship offers the perfect platform to apply my expertise in marketing, event planning, and communication in a meaningful way. I look forward to contributing to the CSC’s initiatives, growing as a professional, and learning new skills that will help me make a positive impact in the sports community. My experience at Brock and this placement will undoubtedly prepare me for the future, where I hope to continue blending my love for sports with a career in communication and event management.

     

    Categories: Students, Uncategorized

  • Vincent Ferro – Entry Blog, Research Analyst

    Monday, November 04, 2024 | By

    Introduction

    Hello. My name is Vincent Ferro. I am a dedicated 4th year Honours Geography student at Brock University, with a minor in Tourism, Environmental Studies, and Italian. My academic journey is complimented by my passion for athletics; I have proudly represented Brock as a member of the varsity swim team, track and field team, and cross-country team. My love for running and the outdoors drives my commitment to a healthy and active lifestyle. 

    Before joining the Brock varsity teams, I spent 12 years with Brock Niagara Aquatics, where I honed my skills in competitive swimming. In addition to my athletic pursuits, I am actively involved in leadership roles as the vice president of the Brock Golden Key Club and president of the Brock Catholic Association.

    I also hold a diploma in Horticulture and Landscape Technology from Niagara College, and I have been the gardener at Our Lady of the Scapular Church in Niagara Falls for the past eight years. Growing up in Niagara Falls has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the natural environment, and I am passionate about enhancing community spaces. 

    This internship aligns perfectly with my background and interests. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to projects that improve facilities and promote sustainability in our community. 

    How I discovered the CSC 

    Brock University Honours Geography program invites honours students to engage in internships, providing them with meaningful work experiences aligned with their career ambitions. I saw this as a valuable opportunity to further my professional development. 

    While exploring potential internships, I came across an opening at the Centre for Sport Capacity (CSC). I was already familiar with the Centre’s initiatives, events, and research, and I had heard positive feedback from peers who had worked there. This Researcher/Analyst position aligns well with my sports background, education and experience with GIS as well as my future career interests. 

    After submitting my application, I had the chance to meet with Dr. Julie Stevens, the director and Grace Nelson, the Centre’s coordinator. Following a thorough interview that offered great insights, I was thrilled to receive an invitation to join the CSC team. It was an opportunity I couldn’t refuse, especially after hearing such wonderful things about the organization. I was excited to contribute to their upcoming events and projects. 

    Greatly Anticipated Learning Journey 

    I am eager about the upcoming internship with CSC for a variety of reasons. The engaging projects planned for this term, particularly those involving GIS to analyze current sports facilities. I look forward to contributing to initiatives that drive positive changes and promote an inclusive sports environment in the Niagara region. 

    This experience will also allow me to develop essential skills for my career as a Research Analyst including: 

    • Data Analysis and Interpretation 
    • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Proficiency 
    • Research Methodology 
    • Report Writing and Presentation Skills 

    These competencies will be crucial throughout my internship and will significantly enhance my professional development. I am passionate about creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere within the sports community, and I am excited to apply this dedication during my time with CSC. 

    Conclusion 

    In conclusion, I am excited to embark on this internship with the Centre for Sport Capacity, where I will leverage my academic background and passion for sports to make a meaningful impact in the Niagara region. This role will not only enhance my skills as a GIS Research Analyst but also allow me to contribute to initiatives that promote inclusivity and sustainability in the sports community. I look forward to sharing my experiences and insights as I navigate this transformative journey. Thank you for joining me on this adventure! 

    Categories: Students

  • Jacob Snow – Entry Blog, Marketing, Communications, and Event Coordinator

    Thursday, September 19, 2024 | By

    Introduction 

    The world of sport has been integrated in various ways throughout my life. Whether it was watching or participating, sport found a way to always be around me and contribute to my day-to-day activities. It is fascinating how sport unites us and the infinite reasons why sport is relevant today and will be sticking around for the long haul. How many different ways do you think sport unites us? 

    Hello, my name is Jacob Snow. I am a fourth-year Sport Management (SPMA) student at Brock University. I come from a beautiful small town called Carleton Place, Ontario which is located within the Ottawa Valley. I grew up participating in sport such as hockey, paddling, cross country, softball, and track and field. I am also an avid sport fan, particularly with hockey, and I am a massive Vancouver Canucks fan. Recently, I joined the team at the Centre of Sport Capacity (CSC) as the Marketing, Communications, and Event Coordinator intern.  

    My nonprofit and commercial sport involvement has included working for organizations such as Carleton Place Minor Hockey Association (C.P.M.H.A.), Professional Womens Hockey League (P.W.H.L.), 5k Foam Fest, Naismith Basketball, National Hockey League (N.H.L.), and Brock University Intramurals. Some of the most integral skills that stem from working from these organizations include: 

    • Communication  
    • Customer service 
    • Event management 
    • Leadership 
    • Decision-making 

    Each experience and skill combined to create a strong portfolio in jumpstarting my professional career in sport. 

    Brock experience 

    Ever since I was young, my interest in sport has enticed me and was a part of my everyday life. I immersed myself in the sport world so much that I wanted to make a career out of it. This led to me pursuing my Sport Management degree.  All the factors that relate to sport and the individual journeys that the athletes and organizations face were intriguing to me. I used to think I had a good understanding of the sports world, but that did not come until my experience with the Brock University Sport Management program. Courses such as Sport Event Management, Governance in Sport, and Sport and Organizational Behaviour, demonstrated the diverse ways sport can be impacted such as what hard work goes on behind-the-scenes in the sport industry. 

    How I came across the CSC 

    The Brock University Sport Management program invites its honours students to take part in an internship. This allows students to be placed in full-time work experiences with an organization that relates to their future career path. I believed that this experience would help move my professional career forward. 

    While searching for an opportunity, the posting for an internship with Centre for Sport Capacity came up. I was familiar with the Centre, the events, and research that they conducted, and I knew peers with prior experience working with the CSC. They were offering a position in marketing, communications, and events. This met my skillset and was related to the future career path that I wanted to take. 

    Following the application, I met with the Centre’s coordinator Grace Nelson and Centre’s director Dr. Julie Stevens. After an extensive interview with plenty of insightful feedback, I was welcomed to the team at CSC. It was an offer I could not turn down, especially after hearing so many amazing things regarding the organization. In addition to seeing their past events and content that they have created, I was excited to be a part of it. 

    Most anticipated learning experience 

    There are many reasons as to why the upcoming internship experience with CSC is exciting. There are many interesting projects with the CSC that take place during this upcoming term. I am looking forward to making positive changes when working on these projects and trying to create a positive and inclusive environment for sport in the Niagara region. Moreover, these projects and this experience will help me develop more skills for my personal and professional career. The skills that I am excited to learn include: 

    • Business Communications 
    • Social Media and Website Management 
    • Event Planning 
    • Marketing and Promotion 

    Each of these will be skills I will use throughout the duration of the internship and will help me in my future endeavors. Creating a positive and inclusive environment within the sport community is one of my passions and it is something that I am excited to apply during this internship experience. 

    Conclusion 

    In brief, I am looking forward to being a part of the Centre for Sport Capacity and working in collaboration with Grace, Dr. Stevens, the support team, our partners, and our members. I am very excited to get started so I can apply my skills and knowledge to the position. The Centre is a highly coveted organization, and they are constantly trying to improve the state of the sport community within the local level of sport. Consequently, if an opportunity to be a part of the Centre arises, students should not hesitate to get involved in any way that they can. 

    Categories: Students