The final draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially ignited worldwide excitement. With the tournament set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico—and hosting an expanded 48-team format—the global football community is preparing for one of the most influential events in sports history.

For fans, the draw sets the stage.
For nations, it fuels pride and anticipation.
For the sports industry, it signals enormous career opportunity.

With the majority of matches being held across major U.S. cities, the 2026 World Cup is expected to create unprecedented demand for professionals in soccer operations, scouting, event management, athlete representation, media, analytics, and more.

How Sports Management Worldwide Prepares You to Work in Soccer

The surge in opportunities created by the 2026 World Cup aligns perfectly with the education and training offered through Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW).
SMWW provides comprehensive, industry-focused soccer programs that teach:

• Player and team analysis

• Scouting and talent identification

• Transfer market operations and negotiation basics

• How to represent athletes ethically and effectively

• Club operations, front-office roles, and event logistics

• Sports marketing, sponsorship, and digital fan engagement

Courses are taught by active professionals—agents, scouts, executives, and club staff—giving students access to real-world expertise and insider knowledge.

Beyond coursework, SMWW offers something few institutions can:
a global network of mentors, graduates, and ambassadors actively working across the international soccer landscape.

This makes SMWW uniquely equipped to help aspiring professionals build careers that align with the global nature of the sport—especially at a time when soccer in North America is expanding rapidly.

SMWW Global Ambassadors United by World Cup Pride

This year’s World Cup draw highlights the international strength of SMWW’s Global Ambassador Network. Several ambassadors represent countries that have officially qualified for the 2026 tournament:

• Michael Laurent & Hubert Register — France

• Ermay Duran — Netherlands

• Parfait Ripert — Germany

• Philip Jenkins — Switzerland

• Silas Boahene — Ghana

• Vladimir Odjou — Australia

• Michael Collier — Canada

• Mariana Caballero Ordonez — Mexico

Each ambassador contributes to SMWW’s global reach, offering cultural insights, industry perspectives, and connections from regions where soccer is deeply rooted. Their nations’ participation in the World Cup underscores how interconnected the SMWW community truly is — spanning continents, languages, and football cultures.

Their presence isn’t symbolic — it demonstrates that SMWW students and leaders are part of a worldwide soccer ecosystem, one that mirrors the diversity and international unity of the World Cup itself.

The World Cup Is Coming. Your Career Could Take Off With It.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup arriving in North America, this is an unparalleled moment for anyone seeking a career in soccer.

From scouting to event operations, from athlete representation to digital content creation, from club support roles to high-performance environments — opportunities will be everywhere.

And with the training, mentorship, and global connections provided through SMWW, you can position yourself at the center of the sport’s biggest stage.

The world is watching.
The industry is growing.
Your soccer career can start now with SMWW

Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) is proud to spotlight alumni who turn their passion for sport into real career opportunities. This week, we highlight Jay Vinson, an inspiring example of how SMWW training—combined with the Concordia University Chicago (CUC) EdD in Sports Leadership—can launch new careers in education, athlete development, and mental performance.

Jay’s journey is a powerful story of transformation, purpose, and the growing demand for leaders who support athletes on and off the field.

How Jay’s Journey Began: A Vision for Athlete Development

When Jay Vinson first enrolled at SMWW in the Athlete Management course and the Name, Image & Likeness course, he wanted to build a stronger foundation in athlete development, leadership, and mental wellness. The SMWW Agent Advisor Program then became the perfect launch point, giving Jay:

• Knowledge of the business and representation side of sports

• Skills to advise and guide athletes at all levels

• Credibility to build his professional brand

• Support from Dr. Lynn Lashbrook, Adam Klimek and the SMWW mentorship team

This training helped Jay establish JV Athlete Advisory Services, where he began working directly with athletes on confidence, resilience, emotional development, and leadership—skills today’s competitors need more than ever.

Strengthening Expertise Through CUC’s EdD Sports Leadership Program

While working with athletes, Jay deepened his education by pursuing the EdD in Sports Leadership at Concordia University Chicago. This program allowed him to expand his understanding of:

• Athlete mental wellness

• Leadership identity formation

• Emotional development in sport

• Long-term athlete success

• Effective coaching and communication strategies

SMWW’s industry-focused training and CUC’s advanced academic foundation worked together to sharpen Jay’s expertise, preparing him for opportunities in both sport and higher education.

A Major Milestone: Becoming a University Instructor in Athlete Mental Wellness

Jay’s continued growth led to a major accomplishment—he accepted a faculty position at the University of West Georgia (UWG), where he will begin teaching in Spring 2026.

Even more impressive, Jay developed and proposed the course himself:
Athlete Mental Wellness Management

UWG approved the course based on Jay’s professional experience, research, athlete advocacy, and the foundation established through SMWW and CUC. His new role is a testament to how sports professionals can turn passion and education into meaningful careers.

Jay’s Mission: Helping Athletes Build Confidence, Leadership, and Purpose

Today, Jay is committed to supporting athletes holistically—not just as performers, but as people. His work centers on:

• Mental wellness and emotional health

• Confidence and leadership development

• Identity formation beyond sport

• Coping skills and performance resilience

• Preparation for life after athletics

Jay’s teaching, advisory work, coaching background, and CUC doctoral research blend together to create a powerful, athlete-centered approach that reflects the evolving needs of today’s sports environment.

How SMWW and CUC Helped Power Jay’s Career Transformation

Jay’s success demonstrates how SMWW and CUC provide real career pathways in the sports industry. Together, they helped him:

• Gain hands-on experience in athlete advising

• Build business and leadership skills

• Strengthen his professional credibility

• Deepen his academic and research expertise

• Move into higher education and course development

• Support athletes across high school, collegiate, and professional levels

This combination of training and education created a launchpad that shaped Jay’s future.

A True Example of SMWW’s Mission

SMWW celebrates Jay Vinson as an example of what happens when passion meets preparation. His journey reflects the growing opportunities in athlete mental wellness, sports leadership, coaching, and higher education—fields that continue to expand as the sports world evolves.

Jay proves that the right training, mentorship, and dedication can open doors to careers that truly make an impact.

This week, we are honored to highlight Dr. Lingling Liu, the SMWW Global Ambassador representing the United Kingdom. Known for her impact across international sports, media, and emerging technology, Dr. Liu’s career embodies global leadership and forward-thinking vision.

A Career Shaped by International Sport, Media, and Strategy

Dr. Liu’s journey began with China Central Television’s Sports Channel (CCTV 5), where she developed a strong foundation in global sports communication and journalism. Her work soon expanded to the world stage with the Beijing 2008 Olympic Bidding Committee, where she co-wrote two chapters of Beijing’s official Bid Book and led international PR efforts alongside agencies such as Weber Shandwick and Bell Pottinger.

These early achievements marked the beginning of a career defined by innovation, diplomacy, and cross-cultural communication.

A Global Leader in Major Sporting Events

Following Beijing’s successful Olympic bid, Dr. Liu founded China Sports Business Consulting, supporting the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cups since 2002. Her expertise and leadership led her to serve as FIFA’s first Media Officer from Asia, working across six consecutive World Cups.

One of her standout achievements includes touring 11 countries as the FIFA spokesperson for the 2010 Coca-Cola Trophy Tour, a role that showcased her international influence and ability to communicate the power of sport on a global scale.

Academic Excellence and Industry Expertise

Dr. Liu’s educational achievements are as impressive as her professional milestones. She holds:

• MBA in Football Industries – University of Liverpool

• PhD in Sports Marketing – Coventry University

Her academic depth strengthens her ability to guide, teach, and influence leaders across the sports business landscape.

Driving Innovation Through Technology and Digital Transformation

Today, Dr. Liu is a sought-after sports business consultant and communication strategist, helping global sports projects, federations, and personalities navigate the rise of blockchain, digital engagement, and Web3.

She has advised major organizations such as Binance and has helped international federations including FIBA, FIVB, and FIH expand their presence in China. Her current role as Olympic Esports Advisor for NetEase Games further highlights her commitment to the future of sports and digital competition.

Beyond consulting, Dr. Liu is a published author, trusted columnist, and recurring speaker at high-profile events—including NFT.London, NFT.NYC, and the Yacht Racing Forum—where she shares insights on the intersection of sports, media, and technology.

A Voice for Global Advancement and Cross-Cultural Collaboration

As an SMWW Global Ambassador, Dr. Liu embodies our mission to connect, empower, and elevate sports professionals across borders. Her work bridges traditional sports institutions with emerging technologies, opening new pathways for growth across continents and generations.

Her leadership represents the future of sports management—innovative, international, and deeply committed to advancing the industry.

A Representing SMWW's Global Vision

Dr. Lingling Liu represents the heart of SMWW's global mission — empowering sports professionals through education, mentorship, and international collaboration.

SMWW’s Vision: 206 ambassadors across the 206 territories recognized by the International Olympic Committee — creating the most exclusive and globally connected network in sports management.

When was the last time you updated your resume?

If your answer is “when I needed it,” you are already behind.

In sports, opportunities often come fast and unexpectedly. A new position opens. A mentor makes a recommendation. Someone you met at a conference calls about an opening. The people who move quickly are the ones who are ready.

A Resume Is a Living Document

Your resume should evolve as you do. Every project, volunteer experience, and new skill is part of your story. If you wait until you are job hunting to update it, you will forget the details that make you stand out.

Set aside time every few months to review it. Add what you have accomplished recently. Remove what no longer fits. Keep it current so you are ready when the phone rings.

What Makes a Resume Stand Out in Sports

1. Relevance Tailor it to the role. Highlight experience that connects directly to the opportunity, even if it was volunteer or part-time work.

2. Clarity Use clear job titles and bullet points that show what you actually did. The best resumes read like a story of growth and initiative.

3. Accuracy Double-check every date, title, and contact detail. I cannot tell you how many calls I have made to numbers that were no longer in service.

4. Brevity Two pages at most. If you cannot summarize what makes you valuable in that space, your resume may be trying to do too much.

Preparation Creates Opportunity

Think of your resume as your highlight reel. You would not wait until game day to practice, and you should not wait until an application is due to prepare.

So before you close your laptop tonight, ask yourself: If someone from the sports industry asked for my resume right now, would I be proud to send it?

— Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide

European American football just took a historic step forward.

The European League of Football (ELF) and the European Federation of American Football (EFA) have officially unified, creating a stronger, coordinated system to grow the sport across the continent.

This move strengthens operations, increases visibility, and accelerates the development of American football throughout Europe — and with expansion comes significant hiring needs across every level of the game.

More Teams. More Growth. More Jobs.

The reunification brings a surge of organizational needs as teams scale up operations, competition structures expand, and talent development pathways become more unified.

Roles now in higher demand across Europe include:

• Football operations and team personnel

• Scouts and player evaluators

• Analytics and data staff

• Video and performance personnel

• Front office support

• Marketing, digital content, and media

• Game day and logistics staff

• Player development and team support staff

For anyone pursuing a career in football, Europe just became one of the fastest-growing job markets in the sport.

How SMWW Helps You Land These Jobs

Sports Management Worldwide has spent two decades preparing students for careers in football — and the ELF–EFA reunification perfectly aligns with what SMWW training delivers.

Through SMWW Courses, You Learn How To:

• Understand football operations and how pro teams are structured

• Evaluate talent like a scout using film, metrics, and modern tools

• Apply analytics and performance data to support coaching and decision-making

• Build a career portfolio that European teams actively look for

• Network with executives, scouts, and team personnel through SMWW mentorship

• Position yourself for hiring by learning how teams recruit, interview, and select candidates

SMWW Football courses are led by former GMs, scouts, directors of football operations, data specialists, and executives with real hiring experience — the exact insights needed to break into a growing European market.

Why SMWW Students Are Well Positioned for Europe’s Football Expansion

SMWW training gives future professionals a competitive edge:

• Mentorship from industry veterans

• Professional scouting and operations skill development

• Career coaching and job-prep guidance

• Access to global networking opportunities

• A certificate respected by teams and football organizations worldwide

As European American football grows, teams need qualified people who can contribute immediately — and SMWW’s curriculum is built to create exactly those professionals.

The Future of Football in Europe Is Expanding — Be Ready for It

The reunification of the ELF and EFA marks one of the most important developments in international American football. With more teams, more structure, and more investment, the demand for trained football personnel will continue to grow.

SMWW provides the education, mentorship, and industry knowledge to help you take advantage of this moment and pursue a meaningful career in football — whether in Europe or anywhere the game continues to grow.

If you want to work in football, this is the time. Europe is rising, and SMWW can help get you there.

Event Dates: December 7–9, 2025
Location: Orlando, Florida
Main Venue: Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek

If you're pursuing a career in baseball—whether in scouting, analytics, operations, media, player development, or agency work—the SMWW Baseball Career Conference is one of the most valuable events you can attend. Held during the same week as the Baseball Winter Meetings, this three-day experience connects you with executives, scouts, agents, analysts, managers, and media professionals from every level of the game.

What Is the SMWW Baseball Career Conference?

The SMWW Baseball Career Conference is an immersive, interactive event designed to help aspiring and current baseball professionals gain insider knowledge, develop essential skills, and expand their network within professional baseball. Through expert-led panels, Q&A sessions, case studies, and structured networking, attendees learn directly from the people shaping modern baseball.

This conference is ideal for those pursuing roles in:

• MLB or MiLB front offices

• Scouting and player evaluation

• Baseball analytics and data operations

• Media, content, and baseball communications

• Player development and coaching support roles

• Agency and representation

• College baseball operations

• Operations, logistics, and team services

Why Attend the 2025 Baseball Career Conference?

1. Connect With Baseball Executives and Influencers

Meet professionals from MLB, MiLB, college programs, player agencies, analytics firms, and national baseball media—individuals who actively shape hiring, development, and innovation across the sport.

2. Learn What Baseball Teams Look for in Emerging Talent

Hear directly from baseball executives about the skills, technologies, and perspectives they prioritize when hiring and building modern baseball operations teams.

3. Build Practical Knowledge Across Key Baseball Disciplines

Conference topics include:

• Scouting and player evaluation

• Analytics, AI, and data-driven decision-making

• Player development frameworks

• Baseball operations and roster management

• Media, reporting, and baseball storytelling

• Negotiation and representation

• Career strategies for advancing in baseball

4. Strengthen Your Professional Networking Skills

SMWW mentors teach you how to approach conversations, ask smart questions, join groups confidently, and follow up effectively—crucial skills for anyone entering the baseball industry.

5. Gain Confidence Navigating High-Level Baseball Environments

You’ll leave with actionable steps, new contacts, and a clear understanding of how to advance your baseball career.

Event Schedule Overview

Sunday, December 7 – Welcome Day

• Check-in at the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek

• Evening Welcome Reception on the upper pool deck

Monday, December 8 – Conference Day

A full day of baseball-focused learning and discussion featuring industry experts across scouting, analytics, coaching support, media, player development, and baseball operations.
Networking Lunch Included

Monday Night – Industry Networking

Join the SMWW team at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, a major gathering hub for baseball professionals during this week.

Tuesday, December 9 – Optional

• Baseball Industry Network Meet-Up
  A valuable way to build early-morning connections.

Who Should Attend?

This event is ideal for:

• Aspiring baseball executives

• Scouts, analysts, and player evaluation specialists

• Baseball agents and representation professionals

• Media, PR, and content creators

• Player development and operations staff

• Collegiate and MiLB employees

• Former players transitioning to baseball operations

• Students and career changers

What Registration Includes

• Name badge & credentials

• Registration packet

• All Monday conference sessions

• Sunday Welcome Reception

• Monday Networking Lunch

Travel and lodging are not included.
Walk-up registrations are not accepted.

Featured Speakers for 2025

The following professionals are confirmed as featured speakers for 2025:

• Cory Schwartz – MLB Vice President, Data Operations

• Alexa Klein – New York Yankees Executive Director, Partnership Activation

• Manny Colon – Oakland A's Director of Minor League Operations

• Eduardo Brizuela – New York Mets Assistant GM

• Trevor Gooby – Seattle Mariners Chief Operating Officer

• Sammi Bireley – Tampa Bay Rays, Baseball Operations Assistant Director

• Greg Glynn – NIL Expert, Pliable Marketing CEO / SMWW Mentor

• Taylor Jacobson – MLB Agent

• Jose Melendez – Piratas de Campeche (Mexico), President of Baseball Operations

• Dan Evans – Former LA Dodgers GM & Former Toronto Blue Jays Scout

• Hank Jones – Former LA Dodgers Scout

• Ari Kaplan – MLB Analytics Pioneer, Databricks Head of Evangelism, "Data and AI Leader of the Year" Influencer Award

• Oscar Suarez – MLBPA Agent & SMWW Faculty

• Lynn Lashbrook – President & Founder of SMWW, Certified Sports Agent, Former NCAA Athletic Director

Highlighted Past Speakers: Baseball’s Biggest Names

The SMWW Baseball Career Conference has hosted some of the most influential leaders in the sport, including:

Front Office Legends & Executives

• Pat Gillick – Hall of Fame GM, 3× World Series Champion

• Ned Colletti – Former Los Angeles Dodgers GM

• Dayton Moore – Former Kansas City Royals GM

• John Mozeliak – St. Louis Cardinals President of Baseball Operations

• Stan Kasten – President, Los Angeles Dodgers

• Fred Claire – Former Dodgers GM

• Bobby Evans – Former GM / Giants Front Office Leader

Managers & On-Field Leaders

• Dave Roberts – Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers

Media Icons & Hall of Fame Voices

• Peter Gammons – Hall of Fame Baseball Writer & Analyst

• Jayson Stark – Senior Baseball Analyst

• Harold Reynolds – MLB Network On-Air Talent

Scouting & Player Development Leaders

• Don Welke – Legendary scouting executive

• Tony DeMacio – Director of Scouting, Atlanta Braves

• Tom Giordano – Special Assistant, Texas Rangers

Analytics & Innovation Leaders

• Ari Kaplan – Influential baseball analytics leader

• Cory Schwartz – MLB Vice President, Data Operations

Agents & Representation Leaders

• John Boggs – MLB Agent

• Jim McNamara – MLB Agent 

Baseball Institution Leaders

• Jeff Idelson – Former President, National Baseball Hall of Fame

• Sal Artiaga – Former President, Minor League Baseball

Scholarship Opportunities

SMWW offers a limited number of full and partial scholarships. Applicants must submit:

• A résumé

• A one-page letter explaining why they should be selected

Register for the 2025 SMWW Baseball Career Conference

If you're committed to building a career in baseball, this event is one of the strongest moves you can make.

Join us in Orlando from December 7–9, 2025, and take your next step toward a future in baseball.

How do you turn a short-term opportunity into a long-term career?

In sports, many professionals start by volunteering. They work events, help with logistics, or take on unpaid internships just to be around the game. These roles may not come with a paycheck at first, but they come with something more valuable — access.

Make Yourself Indispensable

When you volunteer, approach it like a full-time job. Be reliable. Communicate well. Take initiative. The people around you are paying attention, and your professionalism will stand out.

Treat Every Opportunity Like an Audition

Every task is a chance to show how you think, how you problem-solve, and how you work with others. The small things — being early, staying organized, asking good questions — create a reputation that follows you.

Build Relationships

Get to know the staff, not just the people above you. The intern sitting next to you might be a hiring manager in a few years. Stay connected. Follow up. Thank people for letting you learn from them.

The truth is, many full-time roles start from short-term experiences. When people know they can trust you, they look for ways to keep you around.

So the next time you volunteer, remember this: you may not be getting paid, but you are always getting noticed.

— Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide

From Service and Coaching to a Leadership Role at Alabama A&M

SMWW proudly spotlights Jamaal Bess, who currently serves as the General Manager and NFL Liaison at Alabama A&M University. His rapid progression into a key leadership role in Division I football reflects exceptional determination, versatility, and commitment to professional growth.

Before stepping into collegiate football operations, Jamaal built a strong foundation as Head Coach and Athletic Director at P.D. Jackson-Olin High School. Alongside his work in athletics, he also serves in the U.S. Army Reserves, demonstrating leadership both on the field and in service to his country.

Advancing His Career During Deployment with SMWW Education

During his deployment, Jamaal used his time strategically by enrolling in a wide range of SMWW courses. This period became a pivotal point in his career development, giving him the specialized knowledge needed for the next level of football operations.

He completed:

• Football Analytics

• Football Video Performance Analysis with Catapult

• Football Player Development

• Athlete Management

• Football GM & Scouting

• Salary Cap & Contract Negotiation

• Name, Image & Likeness (NIL)

• Football Scouting Apprenticeship

This comprehensive training in areas such as NIL, personnel, evaluation, and scouting provided him with the skill set to fill emerging needs within collegiate football programs.

Pathway to Alabama A&M

When Jamaal returned from deployment, Alabama A&M University became the place where his SMWW education aligned with real opportunity. The coaching staff supported him through his transition back home and offered him the chance to intern while completing his recovery.

His professionalism, growing football expertise, and ability to contribute immediately led to a permanent role on the staff. Today, Jamaal plays a central part in:

• Coordinating NFL communication and scouting

• Managing personnel operations

• Supporting recruiting initiatives

• Overseeing program logistics

• Helping student-athletes prepare for the next level

A Testament to Perseverance and Professional Development

Jamaal Bess’s journey—from high school coach, to military service, to a Division I football leadership position—is a powerful example of what is possible through dedication and continued learning.

His path demonstrates how SMWW alumni can leverage real-world experience and specialized training to build meaningful careers in the football industry.

SMWW congratulates Jamaal on his accomplishments and is honored to be part of his professional story.

This week, we are honored to highlight Szabina Piller, the SMWW Global Ambassador representing Hungary. Originally from Budapest and now based in Miami, Szabina’s journey reflects passion, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence—both in sport and in leadership.

A Foundation Built on Athletic Excellence

Szabina’s story begins on the water. A competitive kayaker for 14 years, she spent seven of those years representing Hungary on the national kayak team. Her dedication produced impressive achievements, including victories at the World Championships, European Championships, and Hungarian National Championships.

Her athletic career instilled in her the values of perseverance, teamwork, and mental toughness—qualities that would later define her professional path.

Academic Achievement and Professional Growth

Equally committed to her education, Szabina earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management from Eszterházy Károly University, laying the academic foundation for a future in sports administration and athlete support.

She went on to gain significant experience working with the Hungarian Sport Ministry and the University Sport Federation, where she contributed to athlete development initiatives and sport-related programs. She further strengthened her global perspective by spending four years working directly with professional athletes across international settings—deepening her understanding of performance support, well-being, and industry operations.

Continuing her professional development, Szabina completed SMWW’s Sports Sales & Marketing course, expanding her expertise and solidifying her role as a leader within the sports business landscape.

Leadership in the Wellness Industry

Today, Szabina brings her competitive spirit and management expertise to the JW Marriott Turnberry Miami, where she serves as Fitness & Wellness Supervisor. In this role, she:

• Oversees daily operations of the fitness and wellness department

• Leads and trains staff to deliver exceptional member experiences

• Designs and coordinates wellness programs

• Ensures safety standards and operational excellence

• Promotes a supportive and empowering environment for guests and team members

Her work reflects her belief that life after elite sport can be just as impactful—and that former athletes have powerful contributions to make beyond competition.

A Role Model for Athletes in Transition

As an SMWW Global Ambassador, Szabina represents the spirit of resilience and reinvention. Her journey from elite athlete to respected wellness and sports management professional serves as an inspiring example for athletes navigating life beyond competition.

She continues to champion personal growth, education, and community impact—proving that with focus and determination, athletes can transform their skills into meaningful and successful careers.

Representing SMWW’s Global Vision

Szabina Piller represents the heart of SMWW's global mission — empowering sports professionals through education, mentorship, and international collaboration.

SMWW’s Vision: 206 ambassadors across the 206 territories recognized by the International Olympic Committee — creating the most exclusive and globally connected network in sports management.

In a major milestone for international baseball, Matt Judd, a Global Ambassador for Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW), attended the inaugural season of Baseball United in Dubai — symbolizing both his personal commitment to growing the sport globally and SMWW’s broader mission to support the next generation of sports professionals around the world.

What Is Baseball United—and Why It Matters

• Baseball United is a historic new professional baseball league, focused on expanding the game in the Middle East and South Asia. 
• Launched in 2025, its inaugural season ran from November 14 to December 14 in Dubai. 
• With franchises such as the Mumbai Cobras, Karachi Monarchs, Arabia Wolves, and the Mid-East Falcons, the league brings together talent from 25 countries. 

This isn’t just a novelty: Baseball United represents a genuine effort to globalize the “America’s pastime,” tapping into new fan bases and athlete pools in regions where baseball has historically been less visible. 

Matt Judd’s Role is More Than Just a Guest

Matt’s presence at Baseball United’s first season is deeply symbolic. As someone who has spent his career helping athletes, organizations, and sports executives in emerging markets, his role is more than ceremonial: he’s there to support, connect, and advocate.

• Network connector: Matt’s global experience allows him to facilitate meaningful connections between Baseball United’s leadership, local stakeholders, and potential investors — particularly in regions like Saudi Arabia, where baseball is just gaining a foothold. 

• Mentor & educator: Through his ambassador role at SMWW, Matt can guide aspiring sports professionals (in the Middle East and beyond) on how to break into baseball business — from scouting and analytics to operations and front office roles.

• Growth champion: His presence underscores SMWW’s belief in baseball as a tool for cultural exchange, professional opportunity, and shared passion across borders.

How SMWW and Matt Judd Are Driving Global Opportunity

SMWW, the global leader in sports business education, has built a network of Global Ambassadors like Matt to empower emerging talent in regions that might otherwise be overlooked.
Here’s how their work aligns with the mission of Baseball United:

1. Education and Training

   • Through SMWW’s online courses (e.g., Baseball Analytics, Front Office Scouting, Agent Certification), professionals in non-traditional baseball markets can acquire the skills to build careers in sports.

   • Matt, as an ambassador, helps spread awareness of those opportunities in his regions, encouraging local students and practitioners to enroll and grow.

2. Grassroots Development

   • Baseball United’s expansion into the Middle East and South Asia is not just about bringing in big players—it’s about building sustainable ecosystems.

   • Matt’s understanding of both Western and regional sports cultures positions him to advocate for community programs, youth academies, and infrastructure development.

3. Global Business Strategy

   • SMWW leverages its network to advise on global partnerships, sponsorships, and talent pipelines.

   • With Matt on the ground in Dubai, he can help connect Baseball United with influencers, brands, and institutions in the Middle East and beyond.

Why This Is a Big Deal for Baseball’s Future

• Baseball as a truly global sport: Baseball United is a tangible step toward transforming baseball from a North America- or East-Asia–centric sport into a global league. Matt’s involvement amplifies that narrative.

• New career paths: Through SMWW and ambassadors like Matt, people in the Middle East and South Asia now have realistic pathways to work in baseball — whether as agents, front office staff, or analysts.

• Cultural exchange: The cross-pollination of ideas and talent between regions helps grow not just the sport, but also economic opportunities, and cross-cultural understanding.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next

• As Baseball United continues to establish itself, Matt Judd is likely to remain closely involved, using his ambassador role to support league initiatives and talent development.

• SMWW, through its courses and network, will continue to educate and empower aspiring sports professionals in emerging markets.

• Together, they can help build a sustainable and inclusive baseball ecosystem that transcends geographical boundaries.

Matt Judd’s presence at Baseball United’s inaugural season is more than just a personal milestone — it’s a symbol of how SMWW is putting its mission into action. By supporting the globalization of baseball, Matt and SMWW are helping open doors for the next generation of players, executives, and sports leaders all around the world.