In over five decades of working in sports, one lesson stands out above the rest: everyone starts somewhere.

The sports industry may look glamorous from the outside—stadium lights, draft day celebrations, game-winning calls—but behind every highlight is a long path paved by hard work, humility, and one crucial moment: getting a foot in the door.

When people come to me asking how to break into sports, I always ask the same thing: Are you ready to start where you are? Because no matter your background or experience, every successful career in this industry begins with the willingness to step in, show up, and learn.

In my career, I’ve worked as a coach, athletic director, professor, agent, and advocate. I’ve seen the sports business evolve—from handwritten scouting reports to real-time performance analytics. But one thing hasn’t changed: relationships and real-world experience still matter more than a perfect résumé.

So how do you get started?

You seek out people who’ve walked the path ahead of you. You listen. You ask good questions. You treat every opportunity like it matters—because it does. Whether you’re volunteering at an event, helping with team logistics, or shadowing a pro in the front office, you’re not just building a skillset. You’re building a reputation.

And that’s what this industry remembers.

My hope in sharing these newsletters is simple: to guide those of you who are passionate about sports, who feel called to be part of it, but may not yet know how to take the next step. Whether you want to be behind the scenes or on the sidelines, there’s a place for you here.

Careers in sports aren’t just for athletes or those with insider connections. They’re for the driven, the curious, the committed. They’re for people who show up early, stay late, and never stop learning.

So wherever you are right now—just starting out or considering a change—know this: your first step matters. It may not be flashy. It may not make headlines. But it will put you on the path.

And that’s where every great sports story begins.

— Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide Mentor. Educator. Lifelong Believer in the Power of Sports