Shenandoah University Sends Students On Experiential Learning Trip To The NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four
Students gained sport management experience working at the event and networked with industry professionals
This spring, Shenandoah sent a group of students to the NCAA men’s basketball tournament Final Four in San Antonio, Texas, to gain hands-on experience in the field of sport management. The trip, performed in collaboration with On Location, an NCAA partner dedicated to enhancing the premier fan experience for sporting events, allowed students to lend a hand in performing duties related to game-day operations, and provided opportunities to tour several facilities and meet industry professionals.
“This was a really exciting opportunity for our students. The boots-on-the-ground experience they gained from this will be invaluable to them as they pursue careers in the sports entertainment industry,” said Brian Wigley, chair of the Division of Sport Management & Esports at Shenandoah University.
Students William Gronlund ’26, Drake Keckley ’25, Jackson Mann ’28, Thomas McRoberts ’27, Kara Mondrone ’25, Connor Reinhard ’27, Isabelle Schultz ’25, Kiyah Stewart ’26, Erin Talko ’26, Samuel Tighe ’28, and Logan Varner ’27 participated in the trip.
In addition to providing game-day support during the two semifinal games and the national championship between Florida and Houston on April 7, students received private tours of the Valero Open PGA Tournament; the University of Texas Athletics Hall of Fame and Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium; and Q2 Stadium, home of FC Austin of the MLS. The group met with several industry executives and professionals as well to learn more about the behind the scenes elements of sporting events.
“This trip was a game-changer,” said Kiyah Stewart ’24, ’26. “It opened my eyes to the endless opportunities behind the scenes in sports and entertainment. Seeing how it all comes together showed me there’s a place for me in this industry and I’m coming back more driven than ever. The connections I made with different people and the networking allowed me to talk to some amazing and potential employers.”
On Location is the official partner of the most iconic franchises in sports, music, and entertainment, including but not limited to the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four, Rose Bowl, and Headline music events around the globe. Their organization has a long-standing relationship with Shenandoah University, providing opportunities for students to get behind the scenes looks and career insights on national and global sporting events. More information regarding On Location can be found online onlocationexp.com.
