June 2025 – Orlando, FL

Dr. Lynn Lashbrook, founder and president of Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW), was recently honored at the National Association of Academic and Student-Athlete Development Professionals (N4A) 50-year celebration during the 2025 NACDA Convention in Orlando, Florida.

As a Past President of N4A, Dr. Lashbrook joined colleagues spanning five decades of leadership and service in the academic support and student-athlete development space. The moment was more than a ceremony—it was a powerful reunion of trailblazers who helped shape the modern student-athlete experience.

“It was a humbling honor to be recognized alongside the very people who helped me launch my career—people I’ve admired for more than 50 years,” said Dr. Lashbrook. “To stand on that stage again, among friends and mentors, was a reminder that relationships in sports last a lifetime—and they are still shaping the next generation.”

Dr. Lashbrook’s deep roots in collegiate athletics and academic advising laid the foundation for his transition into the NFL agent business, a move supported by key figures he reconnected with during the event:

Dr. Lashbrook met Kim Durand—now Deputy Athletic Director of Student Services and Senior Woman Administrator at the University of Washington—early in his career as an agent.

“Kim broke glass ceilings and set the standard for leadership and integrity in college athletics,” said Dr. Lashbrook. “I’m proud to say I had the chance to mentor her early in her journey—and now, she’s mentoring the next generation.”

Steve Milburn made the pivotal introduction to future NFL client Ralph Dawkins, which led to representing Brian Dawkins—now a Hall of Famer and a name etched in football history.

Tom Mosby, a longtime academic advisor, connected with and inspired Lynn with the Agent Advisor program. 

Dr. Andy Nixon and Dr. Gerald Gurney, academic colleagues and early advocates for athlete rights, championed causes decades before NIL became mainstream. Andy's insights on the importance of university partnerships were a major influence on Lynn.

Each of these relationships—and hundreds more—are part of what makes Dr. Lashbrook’s career so unique, including representing Mark Fields, the 13th overall pick in the 1995 NFL Draft. His ability to stay connected, serve others, and evolve with the industry has not only shaped sports business, but also inspired thousands through SMWW’s courses and mentorship programs.

Why This Matters
The National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and its affiliate, N4A, are leading associations that support collegiate athletics administrators across academic services, compliance, development, and athlete welfare. Being honored by these groups signals national recognition from the highest levels of college sports.

Dr. Lashbrook’s career journey—from academic advisor to NFL agent to SMWW founder—is a case study in the power of networking, mentorship, and staying ahead of industry shifts.

“One of the things I tell all SMWW students: when you take one of our courses, you become part of the SMWW family—and my lifelong rolodex becomes part of your network,” said Lashbrook. “This honor is not just about the past, but about building the future of sports.”

Want to break into sports like Dr. Lashbrook?
Explore our Sports Agent Course or Athlete Development Programs and start your journey today.

By Dr. Lynn Lashbrook

I’ve worked with some of the most talented people in sports—and I can tell you, technical skills will only get you so far.

What separates good from great in this industry is emotional intelligence.

EQ isn’t just “being nice.” It’s about self-awareness, adaptability, communication, and empathy—especially when the pressure’s on. And in sports, the pressure is always on.

Why does EQ matter?
1. People remember how you made them feel. Whether you’re interviewing, working with a coach, or leading a team—people remember if you listened, supported, and respected them.

2. Sports is unpredictable. Game plans change. Leadership changes. Seasons end unexpectedly. High-EQ professionals adapt fast and stay grounded.

3. Influence beats ego. The best in this business know how to lead without a title. They earn trust by being consistent, coachable, and team-first.

You can teach scouting. You can teach contract law. But you can’t teach someone to care. And I’ve always believed that how you do the job is just as important as what you do.

So build your toolbox. Learn your craft. But also—learn yourself. Because that’s the edge that lasts.

— Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide

Course Overview:

Step into the cutting edge of basketball analysis with SMWW’s Basketball Video & Performance Analysis Course, taught in partnership with Synergy Sports and led by James Kerti, founder of HoopsThink, SMWW alum, and professional basketball scout. This course equips you with the skills to analyze player and team performance using the same video technology trusted by the NBA, WNBA, G-League, NCAA, and top international leagues. Learn how to break down film, create detailed scouting edits, and use Synergy’s advanced tools to evaluate talent and strategy like a pro.

What You’ll Learn:

• Synergy Sports Platform: Gain hands-on experience with Synergy Sports, the industry’s leading video breakdown and analytics platform used by basketball organizations worldwide.
• Film Editing and Game Breakdown: Learn how to isolate key plays, tag actions, and create customized video edits that highlight player tendencies, strengths, and areas for improvement.
• Scouting Reports and Player Evaluation: Develop your ability to produce scouting edits that support decision-making for coaches, scouts, and front office executives.
• Team Strategy and Game Analysis: Understand how to use video analysis to identify offensive and defensive schemes, opponent tendencies, and game-planning insights.
• Career Preparation: Learn how to leverage video analysis skills to pursue careers in basketball operations, scouting, analytics, and coaching.

Why Learn from James Kerti:

James Kerti brings a unique perspective to the course as a professional basketball scout, SMWW alum, and the founder of HoopsThink. With a focus on player development and evaluation, James has worked closely with players, agents, and team executives to assess talent across all levels of basketball. His insider knowledge and teaching style make complex video editing and scouting concepts accessible to aspiring professionals. Through his leadership, students learn what it takes to break into basketball operations and succeed in an evolving, data-driven industry.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring basketball scouts and analysts

• Coaches looking to enhance video breakdown skills

• Basketball operations and front office hopefuls

• Students aiming for a career in professional basketball

• Fans seeking a deeper understanding of the game

Course Highlights:

• Live Instruction: Join weekly live Zoom chats with James Kerti and Synergy staff, featuring personalized feedback and interactive discussions.
• Hands-On Synergy Training: Get direct access to Synergy’s video platform to complete assignments and practice editing with real basketball footage.
• Professional Portfolio Development: Build a library of video edits and scouting projects to share with prospective employers and basketball programs.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow students, alumni, and professionals working in basketball through SMWW’s extensive global network.
• Path to Employment: Gain insider tips on how to land roles in coaching, scouting, and basketball operations using your new skills in video and performance analysis.

Get Started:

Take the next step toward a career in professional basketball. For more information and to enroll, visit the SMWW Basketball Video Performance Analysis with Synergy Sports Course page.

Course Overview:

Step into the fast-paced world of global football with SMWW’s Soccer Management & Scouting Course, led by two accomplished professionals: Gordon Klestan, Vice President of Soccer Operations at LA Galaxy, and Vassili Cremanzidis, Head Sporting Strategist for the San Jose Earthquakes. With years of experience across MLS and international soccer, they bring real-world insight into player evaluation, team operations, and front office strategy. This course provides aspiring professionals with a comprehensive understanding of how to scout, analyze, and manage talent at the highest levels of the game.

What You’ll Learn:

• Player Evaluation and Scouting: Master the core skills of identifying, analyzing, and reporting on soccer talent using both traditional methods and modern tools.

• Match Analysis: Learn how to break down game film, recognize patterns of play, and assess team performance through tactical and technical lenses.

• Team Building Strategies: Understand the inner workings of club operations, including roster construction, scouting networks, and how clubs identify players who fit their playing philosophy.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Explore how modern analytics are used in scouting and player recruitment, and how data complements traditional eye-test scouting.

• Global Scouting Networks: Get a behind-the-scenes look at how international player markets are monitored and how clubs navigate transfer windows, agents, and player movement.

• Understanding the Soccer Ecosystem: Dive into the structure of global soccer, including leagues, governing bodies, and how management decisions affect club success both on and off the field.

Why Learn from Gordon Kljestan and Vassili Cremanzidis:

Gordon Klestan brings extensive experience from his leadership role at LA Galaxy, where he oversees player personnel decisions, scouting initiatives, and soccer operations. His career path—from player to executive—gives students valuable perspective on how clubs operate internally and the traits they value in players and staff alike. With deep ties across MLS and international soccer, Kljestan delivers relevant, up-to-date knowledge from inside the front office.

Vassili Cremanzidis offers unmatched expertise in modern scouting and sporting strategy. As Head Sporting Strategist for the San Jose Earthquakes, he integrates analytics, performance data, and tactical insights to support decision-making at all levels of club operations. His approach reflects the evolving role of data and analytics in soccer and provides students with a future-forward view of the sport.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring soccer scouts and analysts

• Individuals seeking front office roles in professional soccer

• Coaches and players looking to transition into management

• Fans passionate about the strategy and business of the game

• Students exploring global soccer careers

Course Highlights:

• Live Instruction: Participate in weekly live Zoom sessions with Gordon Kljestan and Vassili Cremanzidis, including Q&A and career guidance.

• Practical Assignments: Conduct match analysis, write scouting reports, and evaluate players using both video and data-driven methods.

• Industry Networking: Connect with soccer executives, scouts, and SMWW alumni working at clubs around the world.

• Career Insights: Learn how to break into the industry, build a professional network, and position yourself for roles in scouting or club operations.

• Real-World Learning: Understand how clubs assess players and make key decisions that shape rosters and team performance.

Get Started:

Begin your path toward a career in professional soccer management and scouting. For more information and to enroll, visit the SMWW Soccer Management and Scouting Course page.

Course Overview:

Step into the high-stakes world of baseball front offices with SMWW’s Baseball GM & Scouting Course, taught by two industry veterans: Dan Evans, former General Manager of the LA Dodgers and SABR Board President, and Hank Jones, a 40-year LA Dodgers scout. Learn from the experts who have shaped MLB rosters and have a deep understanding of scouting, team building, and leadership. This course provides a comprehensive look at the responsibilities and strategies involved in becoming a Major League Baseball General Manager and Scout.

What You’ll Learn:

• Scouting and Talent Evaluation: Learn how to identify and evaluate players at every level, from high school and college prospects to international talent.

• Player Development: Gain an understanding of how MLB teams develop talent through the minors and what scouts look for in potential major league stars.

• Building a Winning Team: Discover the ins and outs of constructing a competitive roster, from trades and free agent signings to budget management.

• Advanced Analytics: Dive into the statistical analysis that shapes decision-making in scouting and front-office roles. Understand advanced metrics and how they influence team-building strategies.

• Negotiation and Contracts: Get an overview of how contracts and negotiations work in baseball, including player signings, team options, and arbitration.

• Leadership and Team Management: Learn how MLB GMs and scouts collaborate with coaches, managers, and ownership to develop cohesive team strategies and maintain a successful organization.

Why Learn from Dan Evans and Hank Jones:

Dan Evans brings a wealth of knowledge to this course, having served as General Manager for the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he played a pivotal role in player acquisitions and roster management. With years of experience leading a major league team, Evans has a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in building a competitive baseball team. He is also the President of SABR (Society for American Baseball Research), a role that gives him an in-depth perspective on the evolution of baseball analytics and talent evaluation.

Hank Jones offers unparalleled expertise in scouting, having spent over four decades with the LA Dodgers as a scout. His extensive career in talent evaluation spans across amateur, professional, and international players, providing students with a deep understanding of what it takes to identify future major league stars. Jones' insights into scouting are invaluable, especially when it comes to assessing raw talent and understanding how players develop over time. His experience has made him a respected figure in the world of baseball scouting, and his advice is crucial for anyone looking to break into or advance in the field.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring MLB General Managers

• Current scouts seeking to refine their skills

• Sports professionals aiming for front office careers

• Baseball enthusiasts wanting to break into the industry

• Students looking to understand the business side of baseball

Course Highlights:

• Live Instruction: Participate in weekly live Zoom sessions with Dan Evans and Hank Jones, with opportunities for personalized guidance and Q&A.

• Practical Assignments: Apply what you’ve learned through real-world case studies and talent evaluations, and refine your scouting and decision-making skills.

• Industry Networking: Build valuable connections with scouts, front-office personnel, and other industry professionals during the course.

• Career Insights: Gain practical advice on how to navigate a career in baseball management, from landing your first scouting job to advancing in the GM ranks.

• Comprehensive Learning: Learn both traditional scouting techniques and how analytics are changing the landscape of MLB operations and roster building.

Get Started:

Start your journey towards becoming a Major League Baseball General Manager or Scout today. For more information and to enroll, visit the SMWW Baseball GM & Scouting Course page.

By Dr. Lynn Lashbrook

Each year, I interview more than 2,000 aspiring sports professionals—students, athletes, coaches, and future front office leaders. Whether I’m on a Zoom call, at a conference, or chatting during a game, I almost always begin the same way:

“What high school did you go to?”

It may sound simple, but it’s powerful. It creates connection. It grounds us. And in an industry built on relationships, that first impression matters.

But what comes next? That’s where the real preparation begins.

Enter: The Two-Minute Drill
I use the “two-minute drill” to help professionals articulate who they are and where they’re going—clearly, confidently, and with purpose. It’s one of the most important skills you can develop.

What makes a strong two-minute drill?

1. Keep it focused. It’s not your whole résumé—it’s your highlight reel. What are the 2–3 key experiences that define you right now?

2. Adapt it. Who are you talking to? Why does your story matter to them? Make your answer feel relevant to the moment.

3. Practice it. The best introductions feel natural, not memorized. That only comes with practice and refinement.

A great two-minute drill doesn’t just share information. It builds trust, opens doors, and leaves people wanting to hear more.

In sports—as in life—you don’t always get unlimited time. You get moments. Make them count.

— Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide

Course Overview:

Step into the dynamic world of soccer agency with SMWW’s FIFA Agent Prep Course, led by Maikel Tsuji—SMWW Soccer Agency Director, FIFA Certified Agent, and former professional soccer player. With firsthand experience navigating the complexities of player representation and contract negotiation, Tsuji brings practical insights designed to prepare you for a successful career as a FIFA-licensed agent. This course equips you with the knowledge, skills, and certification readiness to operate effectively within the global soccer industry.

What You’ll Learn:

• FIFA Regulations and Licensing: Understand the licensing process and FIFA regulations governing player agents and intermediaries worldwide.

• Player Representation Fundamentals: Learn the roles, responsibilities, and ethical standards expected of licensed agents representing professional players.

• Contract Negotiations: Gain expertise in structuring and negotiating player contracts, transfers, and endorsements.

• Career Management: Explore strategies for managing players’ careers, including marketing, brand building, and long-term planning.

• Legal and Financial Aspects: Dive into the legal frameworks and financial considerations critical to successful soccer agency.

Why Learn from Maikel Tsuji:

Maikel Tsuji combines his experience as a former professional soccer player with his role as a FIFA Certified Agent and SMWW Soccer Agency Director. He has successfully represented players across multiple leagues and understands the challenges agents face in today’s global marketplace. His practical approach offers students a comprehensive view of the agent profession from both the field and business perspectives.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring FIFA licensed soccer agents

• Current sports agents seeking FIFA certification

• Soccer professionals interested in player management and representation

• Students and fans aiming to break into soccer agency

Course Highlights:

• Live Instruction: Participate in weekly live Zoom sessions with Maikel Tsuji, with opportunities for personalized guidance and Q&A.

• Practical Assignments: Engage with real-world scenarios to apply agency principles and develop negotiation skills.

• Industry Networking: Connect with agents, players, and industry insiders to build your professional network.

• Certification Preparation: Receive comprehensive preparation to successfully pass the FIFA agent licensing exam.

Get Started:

Begin your path to becoming a licensed FIFA agent today. For more details and to enroll, visit the SMWW FIFA Agent Prep Course page.

Course Overview:

Step into the cutting-edge world of football video performance analysis with SMWW’s 8-week online course, Football Video Performance with Catapult, led by Mike Stoeber—Pro Football Focus Product Manager and former Director of Football Systems for the Jacksonville Jaguars. This course is designed to equip coaches, analysts, and front office professionals with the skills needed to leverage Catapult Thunder for video coaching, recruiting, scouting, and officiating. Whether you're aiming to enhance game preparation or advance your career in football technology, this program offers the expertise required to thrive in the data-driven era of the sport.sportsmanagementworldwide.comsportsmanagementworldwide.com

What You’ll Learn:

• Catapult Thunder Fundamentals: Understand the core features and functionalities of Catapult Thunder, the industry-leading video analysis software used by NFL and college teams.

• Game Film Breakdown: Learn how to efficiently tag, analyze, and review game footage to extract actionable insights for coaching and strategy development.

• Recruiting & Scouting Applications: Explore methods for utilizing video analysis in evaluating player performance and potential during recruitment and scouting processes.catapult.com+4catapult.com+4catapult.com+4

• Officiating Support: Gain knowledge on how video analysis can assist in reviewing officiating decisions and improving game officiating standards.

• Integration with Team Operations: Learn how to integrate video analysis into daily team operations, enhancing communication and decision-making across departments.

Why Learn from Mike Stoeber:

Mike Stoeber brings over a decade of experience in football technology, having served as the Director of Football Systems for the Jacksonville Jaguars and as a Senior Field Support Representative at Catapult Technology. Currently, he is the Product Manager at Pro Football Focus. Stoeber's extensive background provides students with a practical, industry-focused perspective on utilizing video analysis tools in professional football settings. sportsmanagementworldwide.com+1sportsmanagementworldwide.com+1sportsmanagementworldwide.com

Ideal For:

• Coaches seeking to enhance their video analysis skills

• Scouts and analysts aiming to incorporate advanced technology into their evaluation processes

• Front office professionals looking to leverage video data for strategic decision-making

• Students and enthusiasts eager to break into football technology and operations

Course Highlights:

• Interactive Learning: Engage in weekly live Zoom sessions with Mike Stoeber, offering personalized feedback and insights.

• Hands-On Application: Apply learning through real-world case studies and scenarios, enhancing practical understanding.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and peers in the football industry, expanding your network and career prospects.

• Certification: Earn a certificate from SMWW, demonstrating your expertise in football video performance analysis with Catapult.

Get Started:

Begin your journey into football video performance analysis today. For more details and to enroll, visit the SMWW Football Video Performance Analysis with Catapult course page.

Course Overview:

Step into the world of baseball player development with SMWW’s Baseball Player Development & Strategy course, led by Dan Duquette—a three-time MLB Executive of the Year and former General Manager of the Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and Montreal Expos. With over four decades in professional baseball, Duquette brings unparalleled expertise in transforming raw talent into major league success. This course is designed to equip you with the principles, strategies, and techniques behind effective player development, preparing you for a career in baseball operations.

What You’ll Learn:

• Foundations of Player Development: Understand the critical role of player development within MLB organizations, from scouting to nurturing talent at every level.

• Strategic Team Building: Learn how to construct a competitive team by integrating scouting insights with development strategies.

• Mental and Physical Conditioning: Explore methods for enhancing players' mental resilience and physical performance to meet the demands of professional baseball.

• Coaching Philosophy: Delve into effective coaching techniques that foster growth, discipline, and adaptability in players.

• Organizational Integration: Gain insights into aligning player development strategies with overall team objectives and organizational culture.

Why Learn from Dan Duquette:

Dan Duquette's extensive career includes transformative roles with the Montreal Expos, Boston Red Sox, and Baltimore Orioles. He is renowned for his ability to identify and cultivate talent, laying the groundwork for the Red Sox's 2004 World Series championship team. His leadership in player development has been instrumental in shaping successful MLB franchises. In 2022, Duquette was inducted into the Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the team's success.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring baseball operations professionals

• Coaches and scouts seeking to enhance their development strategies

• Front office staff aiming to integrate development into organizational planning

• Students and enthusiasts eager to understand the intricacies of player development in baseball

Course Highlights:

• Interactive Learning: Engage in weekly live Zoom sessions with Dan Duquette, offering personalized feedback and insights.

• Hands-On Application: Apply learning through real-world case studies and scenarios, enhancing practical understanding.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and peers in the baseball industry, expanding your network and career prospects.

• Certification: Earn a certificate from SMWW, demonstrating your expertise in baseball player development and strategy.

Get Started:

Begin your journey into baseball player development today. For more details and to enroll, visit the SMWW Baseball Player Development & Strategy course page.

Here’s something I’ve learned in five decades of hiring, mentoring, and placing professionals in sports: Your physical (or virtual) presence still matters. In fact, it’s one of the biggest competitive advantages you have.

I’ve seen hundreds of résumés. But it’s the people who show up—who put themselves in the room, on the field, or at the event—who stick in my memory.

In sports, proximity creates opportunity.

Think about it:

• The intern who stays after to help clean up? They get asked back.
• The student who volunteers to run the clock at a D-II basketball game? They meet an assistant coach with pro ties.
• The attendee at a career conference who asks smart questions and introduces themselves to speakers? They leave with three new contacts and a potential interview.

These aren’t hypotheticals. I’ve watched these exact scenarios unfold. You don’t need a VIP badge—you just need to be there, engaged and reliable.

And in today’s world, “showing up” doesn’t always mean in person. Join the Zoom. Ask the question in the chat. Turn your camera on. Follow up with the presenter. Participation builds reputation.

If you’re wondering how to get a foot in the door, ask yourself this: Where are the doors located? Then go stand next to one.

It might be an event, a local volunteer gig, a Zoom call, or a job fair. But if you're visible, you’re memorable. And in this business, being remembered is often what leads to being hired.

Show up early. Stay engaged. Be helpful. Be present. That’s how careers begin.

— Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide