Micaela Tracey, Class of 2028

At the beginning of the fall 2025 semester, I began looking into summer internships and volunteer opportunities. Many positions in the sports industry are posted during the fall and winter, so I wanted to start my search early to give myself the best chance of finding an opportunity that matched my interests. As a Sport Management major and college soccer player, I was especially interested in gaining experience in the soccer industry.

One of my professors mentioned that FIFA was looking for volunteers to assist with the FIFA World Cup (June-July 2026). As soon as I heard about the opportunity, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue. I applied online, completed the interview process, and was thrilled to receive an offer in the spring to serve as a transportation volunteer. I was assigned to the Hoboken Train Station in New Jersey, where I completed eight volunteer shifts throughout the tournament, beginning with the opening matches and continuing through the FIFA World Cup Final, which was hosted in the New York/New Jersey area.

As a transportation volunteer, I had several responsibilities that contributed to the fan experience. My primary duties included checking match tickets before fans boarded trains to the stadium, answering questions, and directing visitors to the correct transportation routes. I also interacted with fans by handing out promotional items, including stickers, temporary tattoos, and other FIFA-engagement materials. One of our main goals was to create excitement surrounding the tournament while ensuring fans felt welcomed and informed throughout their journey. Since many visitors were traveling from around the world, every interaction was an opportunity to leave a positive impression and contribute to the overall success of the event.

This opportunity was incredibly valuable for my personal and professional growth. Working at one of the world’s largest sporting events allowed me to experience firsthand what it takes to organize and operate an international event. I also had the opportunity to work alongside volunteers from diverse backgrounds, each bringing unique experiences and perspectives from different areas of the sports industry. Learning from them expanded my understanding of the many career paths available in sports and reinforced my desire to continue working in the industry after graduation.

Beyond the professional experience, volunteering at the FIFA World Cup helped me develop greater confidence in my communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. It challenged me to think quickly, adapt to changing situations, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment. These are skills that I will continue to use throughout my career and in future leadership opportunities.

I also believe this experience has made me a stronger leader within the Springfield College community. The knowledge and experience I gained can be shared with my classmates when participating in campus events, group projects, and future sporting events. Being able to contribute real-world experience to classroom discussions and team environments has made this opportunity even more meaningful.

Overall, I believe Springfield College is an excellent place for students who aspire to work in the sports industry. The Sport Management program provides students with meaningful opportunities to gain hands-on experience, build professional connections, and develop the skills necessary to succeed after graduation. Through internships, volunteer experiences, and classroom learning, students are able to strengthen their resumes and stand out in an increasingly competitive field. For anyone who has a passion for sports, enjoys working with others, and wants to be part of a supportive and collaborative culture, I would highly recommend pursuing a Sport Management degree at Springfield College. 

Paul Yandrisevits, Class of 2029

In the summer of 2026, I had an experience that I know will stay with me for a long time. Through my job as event staff for the New England Revolution, I was given the chance to work at the FIFA World Cup in Boston. The opportunity came about when the MLS season was put on hold for the tournament, and FIFA reached out to the Revolution, asking if any event staff members were interested in working the matches. As soon as I heard about it, I didn’t hesitate. 

Soccer has always been my favorite sport, and the idea of being part of the World Cup, something I’ve watched my whole life, felt almost unreal. I worked the final four matches hosted at “Boston Stadium” (normally Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots in Foxboro). Being there in person was an experience I’ll never forget. 

My role was in event operations, which meant helping fans, answering questions, directing people, managing crowds, and staying aware of everything happening around me. Thousands of fans from all over the world were packed into the stadium, each bringing their own energy and excitement. I had to stay calm, communicate clearly, and work closely with the rest of the staff to make sure everything ran smoothly.

As a rising sophomore in Springfield College’s Sport Management program, I noticed how much of what I’ve learned in the classroom helped me throughout this experience. Concepts from my Intro to Sport Management and Dynamics of Leadership classes came into play constantly. Whether I was directing fans, solving small issues, or coordinating with other staff members, I could feel myself using things I had learned in class. It made me appreciate my coursework more because I could see how it connects to real situations, especially in a fast-paced sports environment.

If I were talking to a prospective student, I would tell them that Sport Management at Springfield College is full of opportunities you might not expect. The program doesn’t just teach you about sports, it gives you chances to actually experience the industry. The connections you make and the hands-on learning you get can lead to experiences like the one I had this summer. I never thought I’d work at a World Cup as a sophomore, but the program helped make that possible.

Another part of my summer that I think is important to mention is that I also worked for Soccer.com during the World Cup. I was a retail associate at Scotland House, The Anchor in Boston, during Scotland’s watch parties. Selling merchandise and talking with fans gave me a completely different perspective on the event. Between working in stadium operations and working in retail, I got to see the World Cup from two very different angles, and both taught me something valuable.

Looking back, this summer wasn’t just about working at a big sporting event. It was about learning, growing, and realizing that I’m in the right major and on the right path. These experiences will stay with me throughout my time at Springfield College and into whatever comes next.