Blog

  • 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

  • Curtis Dupuis-Sutton – Exit Blog, Marketing, Communications, and Events Coordinator

    Tuesday, August 13, 2024 | By

    As I head into my final days here at the Centre for Sport Capacity (CSC) as the Marketing, Communications, and Event Intern, I can look back at an amazing three months of professional and personal growth.

    Throughout the internship, I had the opportunity to work on many amazing projects that covered all the bases of marketing, communications, and events. My work at the CSC encompassed a variety of roles. To begin with, I was responsible for managing our social media accounts, across Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and Facebook. During the internship, we saw tremendous growth in our social media metrics, especially on LinkedIn where we experienced a record month in July in terms of engagements (15,811), reactions (624), and impressions (8,714). In terms of social media marketing, I learned new skills in areas such as:

    Perhaps the most notable achievement of my time at the CSC was the development of the Centre’s new fee-for-service model, SportService, which is a professional service that is focused on expanding the capacity of sport organizations. This project challenged me in many ways and allowed me to develop a greater understanding of some of the issues many sport organizations are facing today. One of my favorite Sport Management courses thus far at Brock, SPMA 3P05, highlights that internal capacity is one of the major challenges non-profit sport organizations face. Through our conversations with community partners and members, I observed firsthand the impact internal capacity challenges can have on an organization, and how services like SportService can provide support in various areas such as event management, marketing, and communications.

    On June 27th, we hosted the Thriving Indigenous Sport Organizations webinar, which highlighted the success story of the Manitoba Aboriginal Sports & Recreation Council (MASRC). This event provided me with an opportunity to explore creative branding and marketing strategies, as well as learning how to host an event and engage your audience on an online platform.

    I also played a significant role in the 2024 Niagara Hope on the Horizon workshop in a number of areas, such as sponsorship, marketing, on-site event support, and event photography. The Hope on the Horizon workshop expanded my skills in event management and one of the biggest takeaways is the attention to detail that is required to execute a great event is no small task. From designing the program to considering sponsorship representation on the day of the event, every detail counts.

    One of the more memorable experiences from this role was our work at the 140th Royal Canadian Henley Regatta. Being involved with a significant Canadian sporting event was a thrilling opportunity for the Centre. Assigned as the Chair of Admissions, our role involved overseeing recruitment, scheduling, and management of 40+ volunteers, totaling around 70 shifts throughout the event week.   It was an enriching experience that provided numerous learning opportunities in areas such as volunteer management, event logistics, and event preparation. This experience also allowed me to interact with various individuals in the sport industry and the dedicated volunteers who supported us – who were amazing to work with. A key lesson learned throughout my time at the event was that well delivered events require well-informed decision making, regardless of the specific area of responsibility, and sometimes quick and in the moment.

    My time at the CSC has definitely impacted my career goals looking forward, not only has the work we conducted throughout the summer opened my eyes to various potential career paths and areas of interest, but the work and opinions of the CSC members and the passions many have for the industry has motivated me to want to further improve on my education and find an area of interest in the sport industry that I’m passionate about.

    The internship at the CSC is an immensely valuable opportunity for future students, the role provides you a wide array of exposure to different fields of interest, such as marketing, communications, and event management. For those students who are potentially unsure what field they want to pursue post-graduation, this opportunity would be ideal. Looking back on February of this year when I was applying to potential internships, I wanted to be in an organization that allowed me to be creative and have an impact – not only during my time in the role but also looking beyond my time. Dr. Julie Stevens and Grace Nelson allowed that to happen, by entrusting me to be creative and innovative, which I believe was the most important factor in my achievements in the past few months with the Centre. I am grateful to Dr. Julie Stevens and Grace Nelson for the incredible chance to grow and learn in such a unique environment.

    Categories: Students

  • July Member Showcase – Raul Rosales Zavaleta

    Wednesday, July 10, 2024 | By

    Background 

    My name is Raul Rosales, and I am from Lima, Peru. I participated in the Visiting International Scholar (VIS) program in the Sport Management department from May 2023 to April 2024. During this time, I had the chance to be part of the CSC activities as a participant and then as a member. 

    I have been involved in the academic field since 2008 when I started as a Full-time faculty member at the Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas’ School of Business. At that moment, I was teaching International Business courses, but my interest was the Sport Management field. In 2010, my institution designated me as the lead coordinator of Peru´s first Sport Management undergraduate program: Business Administration and Sport Business. We started our new program in 2011 and in 2012, I became the chair until now. 

    I applied for the VIS program after getting my Doctor in Business Administration (DBA) degree to continue developing my research skills. I found at Brock not only outstanding academics but also great people with whom I want to continue my professional development in academia with. To become a member of the Center for Sport Capacity is an opportunity to continue my relationship with Brock University and a commitment to be part of the activities and work on joint projects such as conferences or research projects. 

    Research Area

    My main research interest is to contribute to the understanding of how sport could contribute to having a better world. Topics such as the governance of the sport that is related to the board role and activities, life skills development through the sport coaches’ activities, and sport volunteer behaviors are some of the research projects with which I am currently involved. 

    What is your Favourite TV Show? 

    Breaking Bad. I am watching it again. Some people might think that it is a series based on drug dealers, but I believe it is about human nature. 

    What are your current Hobbies and Interests? 

    Gardening. I like to spend some time trying to learn more about bougainvillea (ornamental vines), molles (trees) and Ficus (bush).  

    What’s your Favourite Sports team? 

    Club Alianza Lima (professional soccer team in Peru) 

    Achievements/Memorable Moments 

    Becoming a father. Lucia (21) and Sofia (9) are the greatest achievements of my life. It was a life game changer. 

    Future Plans 

    I plan to continue contributing to a better society through sport.  

    Categories: Member Showcases

  • Curtis Dupuis-Sutton – Entry Blog, Marketing, Communications, and Event Coordinator

    Thursday, May 09, 2024 | By

    Curtis

    Hi, my name is Curtis Dupuis-Sutton, I am a fourth year Sport Management Major / Political Science Minor Student here at Brock University, and this spring/summer I will be interning at the Centre for Sport Capacity as the Marketing, Communications, and Events Coordinator. I was born here in St. Catharines but grew up all over the GTA region before returning to the Niagara Region for high school. Growing up, sports were always surrounding me, whether it be my dad watching Oilers hockey, my grandparents watching Blue Jays baseball, or my mom’s softball tournaments, I could never escape it. However, I didn’t participate in sports that much growing up, my parents would recall me throwing a temper tantrum learning how to skate the first time – something I never learned until a couple years ago.

    I started working in sport as a volunteer at a local sports facility, ballhockey.com before being offered a part-time opportunity working at the pro-shop. Throughout my years at ballhockey.com, I took on various roles that played a key part in the day-to-day operations of the company, such as:

    • Marketing 
      • Oversaw Ballhockey.com website; 
      • Developed new merchandise designs for greater brand exposure; 
      • Managed social media pages; 
      • Marketing lead for Ballhockey.com Team North America which encompassed developing brand identity, logo, and team jerseys. 
    • Event Management  
      • Assisted in the planning and execution of several events, such as: 
      • Large-scale ball hockey tournaments; 
      • Partnership events with amateur teams; 
      • Various other sports tournaments.  
    • New Projects 
      • Key role in the launch of e-commerce website; 
      • Re-brand of company-wide identity. 

    My time at ballhockey.com was a great privilege, as it’s not ordinary for an organization to allow young people like me at the time the opportunity to be critically involved and take on important new projects. All of that was made possible by the late President and Owner Brian Broley, a great mentor and to me, Niagara’s greatest sport entrepreneur. More recently, I have been working within the Brock University intramural team as an Ice Hockey convenor.   

    My interest of working in sport started with Sir Alex Ferguson’s autobiography. All the behind-the-scenes insights regarding commercial strategies, and managerial decisions sparked my desire in knowing how sport operates as a business. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect as I was applying to post-secondary schools shortly after. I attended Niagara College of Canada’s Sport Management program, where I was amazed at the scope of Sport Management research and enjoyed every single minute of my three years leading up to graduation during COVID. Since beginning at Brock in the Political Science program, then switching to the Sport Management program, my time in Sport Management courses has been limited, however there were two courses I was looking forward to taking this past term, and they didn’t disappoint. I enjoyed both the Sport Governance and Financial Management of Sport courses as they dove deeper into two specific fields of Sport Management that I enjoy. Throughout both my academic and professional experiences, I believe I have been able to develop many skills, such as event management, marketing, and project management, to name a few. I look forward to the opportunity to further develop skills, as well as potentially learn new ones throughout my time at the CSC.  

    I first heard about the CSC through LinkedIn a few months ago, before our program experiential education coordinator posted the internship opportunity in late February. I jumped at the opportunity to apply as elements of the job description seemed familiar with the work I have done in the past. Once I applied, I quickly heard back from Grace (CSC Coordinator) and Dr. Stevens, (CSC Director) regarding an interview time. I will say, throughout the interview, I felt I was on the same page as both Grace and Dr. Stevens regarding potential next steps for the future of the Centre. I was also appreciative of the feedback provided throughout the interview, as it’s an uncommon practice traditionally but very valuable. The ability to work again with programs such as Canva, WordPress, and social media platforms was something that stood out to me as I have previous experience and would appreciate the chance to further build on those skills.    

    I am excited for the upcoming term here at the CSC. I believe there are interesting projects and events on the horizon, which will positively impact the Centre’s reputation and identity moving forward. I am extremely excited about the fee-for-service model that will be a featured project for this term as it will be a great learning experience for myself and contribute to something that I’m passionate about – improving the quality of sport.   

    I have ambitions to further build on my education once I’ve completed my degree here at Brock University; however, I am unsure of what specifically I would like to do. I have an interest in Change Management, Organizational Behaviour, and Sport Finance. I am hopeful that my time here at the CSC working on the creation of a fee-for-service model and other CSC initiatives will allow me to explore potential career paths and help me understand what next steps I would like to take personally.    

    Overall, I am looking forward to being a part of the Centre for Sport Capacity and working alongside Grace, Dr. Stevens, and the Centre’s members. To contribute to an organization that looks to positively impact sport in the Niagara region and abroad is an honor and I’m eager to get started. I encourage all students to get involved at the university in whatever way they can, and for those interested in making a difference in sport, to stop by the Centre of Sport Capacity and inquire about how you can get on board.   

     

    Categories: Students

  • Matthew Amos – Exit Blog, Marketing, Communications, and Event Coordinator

    Friday, April 26, 2024 | By

    It is hard to believe that I am now exiting my internship at the Centre for Sport Capacity (CSC) as the Marketing, Communications and Event Intern. Looking back at my four months at the Centre, I have grown so much in both my professional and personal development. 

    At the CSC, I had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects which allowed me to enhance my skills and knowledge in various areas. From organizing events to creating engaging content for the CSC’s social media platforms, I was able to utilize a lot of what I have learned from my Sport Management (SPMA) program, such as marketing, event management, and working with non-profit organizations. I took on several important roles, the first was overseeing the CSC’s social media including Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X, and I was then able to analyze the data on each of these social media platforms. I had the opportunity to partner with Canoe Kayak Canada to create a website for the 2024 National Sprint Championships. I also played a key role in organizing the 2024 Niagara Hope on the Horizon workshop, by securing sponsorships for the event and creating copy for communications and promotional materials. Managing the CSC’s social media offered me valuable insights into the impact of digital marketing and its ability to reach a broader audience. Analyzing data on each platform provided me with a deeper understanding of audience preferences and helped me tailor our content to better engage with our followers. Additionally, planning the Hope on the Horizon tour provided me with valuable experience in event management and the intricacies of planning successful events, such as securing funding, crafting sponsorship packages, and working with partners. 

    It is great to reflect on the areas where I have notably improved including: 

    • Enhanced digital skills in WordPress, Canva, Google Analytics, and Meta Business Suite through social media management and website design.  
    • Developed project management skills through event planning like the Hope on the Horizon Tour.  
    • Strengthened decision-making abilities and professional communication skills in verbal and written forms, focusing on conveying messages effectively and considering the audience. 

    Getting hands-on experience with different digital platforms like WordPress, Canva, and Meta Business Suite was truly invaluable. It not only broadened my skill set but also gave me a deeper understanding of how I can effectively utilize these tools in a professional setting. One of the most rewarding aspects of my internship was gaining insight into data management and analytics. Learning how to collect, analyze, and draw meaningful insights from data has been an eye-opening experience that I know will be beneficial in my future endeavors. For example, using platforms such as Meta Business Suite enhanced my understanding of digital marketing tactics and audience engagement and allowed me to view what kind of posts get the most engagement. 

    Understanding the principles of marketing, communications, and event planning is essential in Sport Management. Having a strong foundation in marketing allows me to effectively promote an organization to a wide audience and maintain their brand image. Communication skills are vital for building relationships with numerous partners and collaborators. Also, proficiency in event planning ensures that events run smoothly and successfully. By mastering these skills, I can navigate the sport industry with confidence and achieve my goals effectively.  

    This internship has significantly influenced my career goals by introducing me to a wider range of opportunities in Sport Management. While my initial focus was to work in the management side of the hockey industry, this experience has broadened my perspective to include skills in marketing, communications, and event planning across different sectors. While working on the management side of hockey remains my ultimate goal, I now see other sectors as promising career options. 

    I highly recommend this placement for future SPMA internship students. It offers valuable exposure to job opportunities in the sport and recreation sector. The CSC provides diverse learning opportunities, treating the internship as a chance for students to develop industry knowledge and skills. I am grateful for the opportunities I had and the relationships I formed during my tenure, and I look forward to applying the skills and knowledge I gained in my future career. Overall, my time at the CSC has been very beneficial. Thank you to Dr. Julie Stevens and Grace Nelson, I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in such a supportive and dynamic environment. 

     

     

    Categories: Students

  • April Member Showcase – Nick Lacoste

    Tuesday, April 23, 2024 | By

    Background 

    Through my past work in Indigenous hockey spaces, I have executed research projects, conducted surveys, and uncovered significant statistical insights concerning the journeys of Indigenous hockey players. I plan to share these findings through the CSC’s platform, with the main goal being to inform the public about the inequities in some Indigenous youth hockey experiences as well as to promote under-scouted high-level Indigenous hockey players. My expertise in statistical analysis (both quantitative and qualitative) has led me to new conclusions about current Indigenous hockey players upon learning about their paths to junior or high school hockey. I plan to present these findings to demonstrate the differences between some Indigenous athletic journeys and some privileged athletic opportunities that co-exist in neighbouring cities/communities. In doing so, I hope to contribute to the growing collection of Indigenous athlete research pieces and publicize issues that are not currently being promoted in mainstream media.

    Current Projects 

    Many of my research projects concern Indigenous sport through a strong partnership with the Manitoba Aboriginal Sport & Recreation Council (MASRC). One project that I recently completed was preparing important documents for the 2025 Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games. This event will be held in two nations, Norway House Cree Nation and Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation serves as both an athletic and cultural celebration next summer. I also created the High-Level Indigenous Hockey Players Map. This has been a 5-month project to collect and organize Indigenous hockey players into a database to promote their achievements. I used my database management expertise to create database and map templates for volunteers to easily attach player info to their hometowns and eventual points on a map. The project began as a Google Doc of 80-ish names and has since become a full-fledged database with over 1000 high-level Indigenous hockey players. The Google My Map visual for this database has amassed over 32,000 views, which has completely surpassed my expectations. A special shoutout goes to Hockey Indigenous for their help throughout this process and for promoting the map on their website.

    What is your Favourite TV Show? 

    Prison Break or Bojack Horseman

    What are your current Hobbies and Interests? 

    Practically every day, I will watch, track, scout, research, or play hockey. When not focused on hockey, I like to read and play guitar or piano. I recently also started playing disc golf and I enjoy many outdoor activities like basketball and Spikeball.

    What’s your Favourite Sport? 

    My favourite sport is hockey, and my favourite team is the Dallas Stars. They don’t get much media attention in southern Ontario, but I have been following them closely since about 2014.

    Achievements/Memorable Moments 

    Being part of a panel at the Indigenous Hockey Research Network’s inaugural conference at McGill University in October 2023 was a proud personal moment. I was also selected to be a page in the Ontario Legislature when I was in Grade 7, which is a proud memory of moving to Toronto for 5 weeks in 2014 to work for the provincial government at Queen’s Park.

    Future Plans 

    During my Master’s, I plan to continue working/volunteering in my 5-6 positions if time allows. The main goal throughout my Master’s is to apply the Indigenous hockey organizational learning and knowledge from the Master’s research into a live environment. I hope to build relationships with Indigenous hockey organizations as part of working with Indigenous youth athletes. I also hope to work with non-Indigenous Junior and Professional hockey organizations over the next few years, both locally and potentially overseas. The end goal is to work in a meaningful management space within a professional hockey organization, and I will continue to work until that happens.

    Categories: Member Showcases

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