Duncan Haines Mills, an alumnus of Northwest Missouri State University, has officially entered the NFL ecosystem after securing a position with the Kansas City Chiefs as a member of their Game Day Activation Team. For Duncan, this opportunity is more than just a job—it’s a dream realized with his hometown team.

After completing multiple Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) programs—including Football GM & Scouting, the Football Scouting Apprenticeship, Proficiency in PFF, Sports Analytics & AI, and Sports Career Strategies—Duncan has translated education into action at the highest level of professional football.

From Classroom to Arrowhead Stadium

In his new role with the Kansas City Chiefs, Duncan will play an integral part in preparing Arrowhead Stadium for game day operations. His responsibilities include ensuring the stadium is fully prepared for fans, players, coaches, and visiting teams, maintaining the elite standard expected within the NFL.

Remarkably, Duncan’s first major assignment will be helping prepare Arrowhead Stadium for the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches hosted in Kansas City. Starting his career with a global event of this magnitude highlights both the scale of the opportunity and the trust placed in him by the organization.

Building a Career Through Football Education

Duncan’s path to the NFL was strengthened by his commitment to professional development. Through SMWW, he completed:

• Football GM & Scouting

• Football Scouting Apprenticeship

• Proficiency in PFF

• Sports Analytics & AI

• Sports Career Strategies

These programs provided hands-on training in player evaluation, data analytics, scouting systems, and career positioning—skills that directly align with the operational and strategic demands of NFL organizations.

Duncan credits SMWW with helping him deepen his understanding of the sport he loves and giving him the confidence to pursue competitive opportunities. He also noted that the SMWW Combine Conference experience strengthened his interviewing skills and motivated him to continue applying for roles within professional football.

Entering the NFL Ecosystem

Breaking into the NFL is notoriously competitive. Duncan’s story demonstrates how targeted education, persistence, and strategic networking can open doors—even within hometown organizations like the Kansas City Chiefs.

As he prepares for both NFL game days and the global spotlight of the 2026 World Cup, Duncan Haines Mills represents the next generation of football professionals blending traditional scouting knowledge with modern analytics expertise.

We congratulate Duncan on this incredible achievement and look forward to watching his continued success in the NFL and beyond.

Every year, the football industry gathers in Indianapolis for the NFL Scouting Combine. While future draft picks showcase their talent on the field, executives, scouts, agents, and media leaders are making decisions behind the scenes.

Right in the middle of that energy, Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) hosts its annual Football Career Conference — a two-day event built specifically for aspiring NFL professionals.

If you want to work in football, this is where access meets opportunity.

Why Attend the SMWW Football Career Conference?

This isn’t just another sports seminar. It’s a front-row seat to how the NFL truly operates.

You’ll:
• Learn directly from NFL executives, agents, scouts, and media insiders
• Discover real career paths into football operations, analytics, marketing, and representation
• Network during Combine week — when the entire football world is in one city
• Gain clarity on how to position yourself for internships and entry-level roles

Now let’s walk through the 2026 schedule in a simple, easy-to-follow format.

Thursday, February 26 | 6:00–8:00 PM EST

Welcome Reception

Location: Punch Bowl Social – 120 S Meridian St, Indianapolis

Kick off the weekend with a relaxed networking reception in downtown Indianapolis. Meet fellow attendees, speakers, and industry professionals before the main event begins. In sports, relationships matter — and this is where they start.

Friday, February 27 | 7:30 AM–6:30 PM EST

7:30 AM – Registration Opens

Coffee, bagels, check-in, and seating. Arrive early and start connecting.

7:50 AM – Adrenalize Today, Monetize Tomorrow

Speaker: Lynn Lashbrook, SMWW President & NFLPA Agent
Dr. Lashbrook opens the conference with a roadmap for turning your passion for football into a sustainable career.

8:00 AM – Inside a Super Bowl Front Office

Speaker: Nolan Teasley, Assistant GM, Seattle Seahawks
Learn how championship rosters are constructed and what separates elite franchises from the rest.

8:30 AM – Running Football Operations: Inside the NFL

Speaker: Dawn Aponte, SVP of Football Operations, New York Giants
A rare look at salary cap management, compliance, and the operational backbone of an NFL team.

9:00 AM – NFL Analytics & Technology: How Data Is Changing the Game

Moderator: Ric Serritella
Panelists include leaders from the Jacksonville Jaguars, FTN Network, and The 33rd Team.
Discover how analytics departments influence scouting, draft strategy, and in-game decisions.

9:50 AM – Break

10:00 AM – The Man Who Breaks the News

Speaker: Adam Schefter, Senior NFL Insider, ESPN
Gain insight into building credibility, sourcing information, and succeeding in football media.

11:00 AM – Scouting the Next NFL Superstar

Panel includes representatives from the Kansas City Chiefs and former GM of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Learn how teams evaluate elite talent and project future performance.

11:50 AM – Group Photos on the SMWW Stage

12:00–1:00 PM – Halftime (Lunch Break)

1:00 PM – Inside NFL Media: Broadcasting, Reporting & Analysis

Speakers include Brian Baldinger of NFL Network, Courtney Cronin of ESPN, and a digital media executive from the Indianapolis Colts.
Explore career paths in broadcasting, digital content, and reporting.

1:45 PM – Break

2:00 PM – Life as an NFL Agent: Contracts & Cap Strategy

Hear from experienced agents about negotiations, player representation, and long-term career management.

2:45 PM – Break

3:00 PM – How to Get an Entry-Level Job in the NFL

Executives from the Indianapolis Colts and Kansas City Chiefs share actionable advice on landing your first role.

3:45 PM – Break

4:00 PM – Athlete Marketing & Endorsements

Industry leaders discuss endorsements, branding, and how NFL players monetize their platforms.

4:45 PM – Go Global or Go Home

Dr. Lashbrook closes with a forward-looking perspective on the globalization of football and future opportunities.

5:00–6:30 PM – Overtime Networking Happy Hour

Drinks, appetizers, and open networking. Many attendees say this is where real opportunities take shape.

Who Should Be in the Room?

• Aspiring NFL agents
• Future scouts and analytics professionals
• Sports media hopefuls
• College students seeking internships
• Career changers targeting football operations
• Anyone serious about building a career in football

The Advantage of Combine Week

Being in Indianapolis during the NFL Combine places you in the center of the football universe. Pair that with direct access to executives, insiders, and decision-makers, and you’re not just attending an event — you’re positioning yourself for opportunity.

If you’re ready to stop watching the NFL from the outside and start building your career inside it, the SMWW Football Career Conference is where that journey begins.

In today’s evolving collegiate athletics landscape, strategic NIL representation can redefine an athlete’s career trajectory. SMWW Agent Advisor Dr. Ernest Cutler continues to demonstrate exactly how impactful that guidance can be.

In January 2026, Jason Stokes officially transferred from the University of Utah to the University of Colorado, positioning himself for a new chapter in his collegiate football career. The move came on the heels of a highly successful Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement that resulted in a remarkable 350% increase in deal value — a powerful testament to both Stokes’ growing marketability and the strategic leadership behind the scenes.

Stokes, who carries a strong NFL pedigree, will now develop under Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders — widely known as “Coach Prime.” Sanders’ proven ability to elevate elite talent aligns seamlessly with Stokes’ long-term professional aspirations at the next level.

Central to this milestone is Dr. Ernest Cutler. Through strategic NIL planning, brand positioning, and career management, Dr. Cutler helped engineer a deal structure that significantly increased Stokes’ valuation while strengthening his long-term professional outlook.

In an era where NIL opportunities can shape an athlete’s financial and professional future, Dr. Cutler’s advisory approach reflects a comprehensive understanding of branding, leverage, and market timing. His continued guidance will support Stokes’ NIL growth, brand development, and progression toward a career in the National Football League.

This successful transition highlights the impact of experienced NIL representation — and reinforces SMWW’s role in preparing and supporting industry leaders who help athletes maximize both performance and opportunity.

One of the most common questions prospective students ask is: Does SMWW guarantee a job?

The honest answer is no—Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) does not guarantee job placement. And that’s actually a good thing.

A guaranteed job in the sports industry would suggest that opportunity alone determines success. In reality, long-term success in sports requires preparation, skill development, networking, and the ability to create value. That’s where SMWW focuses its mission: sharpening the tools in your toolbox so you can compete and succeed.

Why No One Can Truly Guarantee a Job in Sports

The sports industry is competitive. Teams, agencies, and organizations hire candidates who bring measurable value—whether in scouting, analytics, marketing, representation, or operations.

You need skills to get the job.
But you often need experience to build those skills.

This is the gap that stops many aspiring professionals.

SMWW bridges that gap.

How SMWW Prepares You for the Sports Industry

Founded by Dr. Lynn Lashbrook, Sports Management Worldwide was built on one principle: education should be practical, connected to the industry, and taught by professionals who live and breathe sports every day.

Instead of offering false promises, SMWW provides:

• Real-world curriculum taught by active industry professionals

• Networking opportunities with decision-makers

• Career guidance tailored to your goals

• Tools that make you a stronger, more attractive candidate

The focus is empowerment—not entitlement.

Bridging the “Skills vs. Experience” Gap

Many aspiring professionals face a frustrating reality:

• Employers want experience.

• You need a job to gain experience.

SMWW addresses this by giving students applied knowledge, industry insight, and direct exposure to professionals working in sports today. That access matters.

Through programs in scouting, agency, analytics, broadcasting, and sports business, students learn what employers actually look for—and how to present themselves accordingly.

Resume Redesign and Professional Positioning

A strong resume is often the difference between being overlooked and getting an interview.

SMWW’s resume redesign service helps students:

• Present their experience professionally

• Highlight transferable skills

• Align their background with sports industry expectations

• Stand out in a competitive hiring market

In sports, perception and presentation matter. Your resume is your first impression.

Direct Access to Industry Professionals

Another major advantage is the Dr. Lashbrook Worldwide Chat—an interactive opportunity to engage directly with experienced sports executives and instructors.

These sessions allow students to:

• Ask real-world career questions

• Gain insight into hiring trends

• Understand industry expectations

• Build meaningful professional connections

Connections alone don’t get you hired—but informed connections combined with preparation can open doors.

What SMWW Really Guarantees

While SMWW does not guarantee employment, it does guarantee:

• Education rooted in real-world application

• Access to industry professionals

• Career development resources

• A community of driven sports professionals

Your success ultimately depends on your effort, persistence, and willingness to apply what you learn.

The Bottom Line

If you are looking for a guaranteed job, the sports industry may not be the right place. It rewards preparation, initiative, and resilience.

SMWW sharpens your tools.
You still have to build the house.

By bridging the gap between knowledge and opportunity, SMWW positions you to become a competitive candidate—equipped with the skills, connections, and confidence to pursue a meaningful career in sports.

And in an industry built on performance, that preparation is what truly matters.

SMWW Agency is excited to welcome Devante Keys, who will be represented by SMWW Agent Advisor Ryley Brotman.

Ryley’s relationship with Devante began through a mutual connection—one of Devante’s teammates from East Texas A&M. After being introduced, Ryley and Devante engaged in several conversations that allowed them to get to know one another both personally and professionally. As discussions progressed, it became clear that they shared a strong connection built on trust, mutual respect, and aligned goals for Devante’s future.

Through continued dialogue, Ryley gained a deeper understanding of Devante’s character, work ethic, and aspirations at the next level. Their conversations reinforced a shared vision for development and long-term success, ultimately leading Devante to move forward with representation.

SMWW Agency is proud to welcome Devante Keys and looks forward to supporting him as he embarks on this next chapter of his career. We are excited to see him compete and build a successful future at the next level, both on and off the field.

SMWW Agency is excited to welcome Ben Russo-Bell, who will be represented by advisor Nick Prater, Director of Agency Operations, as he prepares for the next chapter of his football career.

Nick and Ben first connected at a football all-star event in Florida, where an initial conversation opened the door to an ongoing relationship. Through continued communication, Ben gained insight into SMWW Agency’s approach to athlete representation and long-term career development.

As discussions progressed, the agency’s core values—centered on integrity and transparency—stood out to Ben. Those values, combined with SMWW’s commitment to supporting athletes both on and off the field, played a key role in his decision to join the agency.

What began as an introduction evolved into a strong partnership built on trust and shared goals. SMWW Agency looks forward to supporting Ben Russo-Bell as he moves forward in his career, providing guidance and advocacy at every stage.

In today’s competitive job market, especially within the sports industry, career fairs remain one of the most effective ways for job seekers to connect directly with employers, industry professionals, and educational leaders. While online applications and networking platforms are useful, nothing replaces the value of face-to-face interaction.

Career fairs offer job seekers the opportunity to:

• Build real relationships with hiring managers

• Learn about career paths that aren’t always visible online

• Gain insight into what employers are actually looking for

• Stand out beyond a résumé or LinkedIn profile

For those pursuing careers in sports, where networking and industry knowledge are essential, career fairs can be a true game changer.

Career Fairs Across North America Create Opportunity

Career fairs take place across North America, offering access to opportunities in professional sports, collegiate athletics, sports marketing, management, media, and beyond. These events bring together organizations, teams, universities, and aspiring professionals who share a passion for sports and business.

In 2025 alone, Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) attended 16 career fairs across the United States and Canada, reinforcing its commitment to meeting aspiring sports professionals where they are and helping them take the next step toward their careers.

SMWW’s Impact on Helping People Get Jobs in Sports

For over two decades, SMWW has been a leader in sports education and career development, helping thousands of individuals gain the knowledge, skills, and industry connections needed to work in sports.

SMWW’s presence at career fairs goes far beyond simply sharing information. The organization actively:

• Educates attendees on real career pathways in sports

• Connects individuals with experienced industry professionals

• Provides guidance on breaking into a highly competitive field

• Helps job seekers understand how education, networking, and experience work together

Through its courses taught by seasoned sports executives, SMWW continues to play a vital role in turning passion for sports into real, sustainable careers.

Meet SMWW at the Portland Trail Blazers Career Fair

SMWW’s commitment to career development continues tomorrow, February 6th at 5:30 PM PST, at the Portland Trail Blazers Career Fair.

Attendees will have the opportunity to connect directly with:

• Nick Prater — Business Operations Coordinator & Agency Director of Operations

• Erin Beggs — Social Media Manager

Both Nick and Erin bring firsthand experience in the sports industry and are eager to speak with individuals looking to learn how to position themselves for success in sports business.

Whether you are just starting your journey or looking to take the next step, this is a valuable opportunity to gain insight, ask questions, and build meaningful connections.

Final Thoughts

Career fairs remain one of the most powerful tools for job seekers — especially in the sports industry, where relationships, education, and timing matter. With its nationwide and international presence, SMWW continues to make a measurable impact by helping people gain clarity, confidence, and access to careers in sports.

If you’re serious about working in sports, attending career fairs and connecting with organizations like SMWW can make all the difference.

The SMWW Senior Bowl Meet & Greet delivered an unforgettable experience for attendees looking to break into the football and sports management industries. Hosted in conjunction with one of the premier pre-draft events in professional football, the gathering provided unmatched access to NFL minds, real-world scouting insight, and high-level networking opportunities.

Bringing together students, professionals, and industry leaders, the event reinforced SMWW’s commitment to delivering education that goes far beyond the classroom.

SMWW Leadership and Industry Experts in Attendance

The Meet & Greet featured a strong presence from Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) leadership and faculty, including:

• Dr. Lynn Lashbrook, SMWW President and Founder

• Liz Lashbrook, SMWW Executive Director

• Ike Worth, SMWW Business Operations Manager

• Dane Vandernat, SMWW Faculty | Former NFL Director of Pro Personnel | Hamilton Tiger-Cats Director of Pro Scouting 

• Brian Baldinger, Former NFL Player and NFL Network Analyst

• Steve Palazzolo, SMWW Faculty | Football Analyst | Media Personality

Their participation gave attendees rare face time with professionals who actively shape how football talent is evaluated and how careers are built within the sports industry.

Exclusive Senior Bowl Film Session with NFL Experts

One of the highlights of the event was an exclusive film study session led by Brian Baldinger and Dane Vandernat. Using practice footage from the Senior Bowl, they walked attendees through how NFL evaluators break down film, identify traits, and project talent to the next level.

This behind-the-scenes session provided:

• A professional framework for evaluating football film

• Insight into what NFL scouts and analysts prioritize during practices

• Real-world examples of translating tape into roster decisions

For aspiring scouts, analysts, and football operations professionals, this session offered a rare look at how evaluation happens at the highest level.

High-Impact Networking at the Senior Bowl

Beyond education, the SMWW Senior Bowl Meet & Greet served as a powerful networking platform. Attendees had the opportunity to connect directly with SMWW faculty, alumni, and peers who share a passion for football and sports business.

These face-to-face conversations are often where careers begin — and the Senior Bowl setting provided the perfect environment for building authentic industry relationships.

Why Events Like This Matter

The Senior Bowl Meet & Greet exemplifies what sets SMWW apart: real access, real education, and real connections. By aligning with major industry events and bringing students directly into the conversation, SMWW continues to bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity.

https://www.sportsmanagementworldwide.com/conferences/senior-bowl-meet-greet

As the NFL Draft approaches, collegiate all-star games like the Hula Bowl play a pivotal role in shaping professional football careers — not only for players, but for the agents, scouts, and media professionals evaluating them.

This year, Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) was represented at the Hula Bowl by Nick Prater, SMWW Business Operations Coordinator and Agency Director of Operations, and Ric Serritella, SMWW Faculty member and founder of All Access Football. Their presence underscored SMWW’s hands-on approach to football education and professional development.

Why the Hula Bowl Matters in the NFL Draft Landscape

The Hula Bowl serves as a vital evaluation platform for draft-eligible players and under-the-radar prospects. With NFL scouts, agents, and media members in attendance, the event provides meaningful opportunities for talent to elevate their draft stock through practices, meetings, and game performance.

For industry professionals, the Hula Bowl offers:

• Live exposure to player evaluations in a professional environment

• Insight into how prospects are assessed beyond game film

• Access to decision-makers across football operations and media

These elements make the Hula Bowl an essential stop on the pre-draft circuit.

A Learning Environment for Future Agents, Scouts, and Media Professionals

For individuals aspiring to work as sports agents, understanding the all-star game ecosystem is critical. These events often mark the first point where representation decisions, contract strategy, and brand positioning begin to take shape.

From a scouting perspective, all-star games allow evaluators to:

• Compare talent against elevated competition

• Analyze practice habits, coachability, and football IQ

• Conduct face-to-face evaluations that film alone cannot provide

For those pursuing careers in football media, the Hula Bowl offers a real-time laboratory to learn how narratives form, how draft conversations evolve, and how professional coverage is shaped ahead of the NFL Draft.

SMWW’s Commitment to Real-World Football Education

Nick Prater and Ric Serritella’s attendance at the Hula Bowl reflects SMWW’s commitment to experiential learning. By actively participating in key football events, SMWW faculty and staff bring current, real-world insight directly back to students preparing for careers in the sports industry.

This firsthand exposure ensures that SMWW education remains aligned with how the football business truly operates — not just in theory, but in practice.

Preparing for a Career in Football Starts Here

Collegiate all-star games like the Hula Bowl are more than showcases — they are career accelerators for players and industry professionals alike. For those seeking to become agents, scouts, or football media contributors, understanding these environments is essential to long-term success.

Through on-site engagement and professional evaluation, SMWW continues to provide its students with access to the moments that matter most in the journey to the NFL.

You just had a great conversation with someone in the industry. You talked about their role, the sports landscape, your goals, and opportunities. Now what?

Most people walk away and hope the other person remembers them. The professionals follow up and give the relationship somewhere to go.

Follow-Up With Purpose

A simple thank-you message is a good start, but it is not the whole story. The goal is not to close a transaction. It is to begin a relationship. That requires intention.

When you follow up, ask yourself:

• What did I learn from this conversation?
• How can I show appreciation without asking for anything?
• What is a natural way to stay connected in the future?

Answering those questions makes your message meaningful rather than routine.

Show That You Applied the Advice

If someone gives you guidance, do something with it. Read the book they recommended. Apply the strategy they mentioned. Attend the event they told you about. Then tell them what you did.

That single action puts you in the top percentage of aspiring professionals. It shows maturity, humility, and initiative.

Stay in Touch Without Being Overbearing

Relationships in sports are built slowly. You do not need to reach out every week. A short note every few months that references the industry, their work, or something you learned keeps you on their radar in a thoughtful way.

It might sound simple, but it is remarkable how few people actually do this.

Play the Long Game

The connection you make today may not pay off for months or even years. Careers in sports move at their own pace, and timing matters.

So here is the question to ask yourself: Are you treating your conversations like one-time transactions, or are you nurturing relationships that can grow over time?

One approach opens doors quickly. The other opens doors that stay open.

—Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide