The Minorities in Sports Next Club at LSU held their second annual Beyond the Game Conference.

LSU students were able to attend and get insightful information from professionals who work in the sports industry, as well as students who work for LSU Athletics. Students were also able to network with each other, building their networking skills and professionalism, as well as preparing them for the sports industry.

Crystal Loop, who is a career coach from the LSU Career Centre started off the conference by explaining the importance of building your personal brand and resume. She was followed by sales professionals Chase Augustus and Ashley Livaccari, who work with the Saints and Pelicans in their department. Their conversation gave students information about what it is like to work in the professional sports industry, even if you are not sure in which career path you want to go down.

President of Minorities in Sports Next at LSU, Dyani Leak had hopes and intentions that attendees would gain a valuable experience and embrace the information that was being shared with them.

“For everyone who comes here, they gain valuable insight, not just coming here looking for a job, but to network. And to gain necessary strategies and tools to help propel them in their future career.”

However, not only did attendees hear from professionals in the sports industry, but also members of the Minorities in Sports Next at LSU’s executive board. The members shared their personal experience on what it is like to work for LSU Athletics as well as being an intern for professional teams. They wanted to establish that getting experience whilst in college is crucial when applying for professional internships or positions.

The event concluded with key speakers in the LSU Athletics department, such as athletic director Verge Ausberry, the business of athlete wellbeing panel, Dr. LaKeitha Poole, Sherman Wilson, Tambria Bradford, Tyrus Thomas and Damien Willis, as well as the LSU NIL team, Zach Greenwell, JeMar Lincoln and Jaden Rogers. The wide variety amongst these speakers gave students in depth knowledge about each party of the department and opened their minds to the different routes in the sports industry.

It was a successful and informative day for MIS as they were able to host panels that gave students beneficial information about making a mark in the sports industry. Each panelist gave an authentic and insightful speech about their journey in sports, leaving attendees curious about what they want to do and how they will get there. What you may intend to do initially, does not mean that it will become your future career.

Moreover, the Beyond the Game Business Conference allowed students to make meaningful and business relationships with the panellist’s and each other, teaching that your network is your net worth.