Course Overview:

Step into the world of modern baseball analysis with SMWW’s 8-week online Baseball Analytics course, led by Ari Kaplan—an MLB analytics pioneer, Formula 1 analyst, and Head of Evangelism at Databricks. Recently honored as “Data and AI Leader of the Year,” Ari brings a wealth of experience at the intersection of baseball, data science, and front office strategy. This course is designed to equip you with the essential skills and industry-relevant knowledge needed to pursue a career in baseball analytics, front office operations, and player evaluation. Whether you aspire to work in MLB, Minor League Baseball, college programs, or baseball media, this program offers the tools and mentorship to get you there.

What You’ll Learn:

• Baseball Analytics Fundamentals: Understand how analytics are used to evaluate players, build rosters, and develop winning strategies.

• Sabermetrics & Statistical Models: Dive deep into sabermetrics, data-driven scouting, and the advanced metrics that drive front office decision-making.

• Data Tools & Software: Gain exposure to the analytics platforms and tools used by professional teams—including those tied to player tracking, visualization, and modeling.

• Player Performance & Roster Evaluation: Learn how to assess player value, compare performance across leagues, and forecast future production using modern data science.

• Front Office Integration: Explore how analytics departments collaborate with coaches, scouts, and executives to influence game-day and long-term decisions.

Why Learn from Ari Kaplan:

Ari Kaplan has been a trailblazer in baseball analytics for over 25 years, working with over half of all MLB organizations. As a consultant, advisor, and innovator, he has helped shape how data is used in player evaluation and front office decisions. Currently serving as Head of Evangelism at Databricks and a Formula 1 analyst, Ari brings a unique cross-sport perspective and world-class expertise in analytics, AI, and sports technology.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring baseball analysts and data scientists

• Coaches and scouts looking to adopt data-driven strategies

• Sports management professionals entering baseball operations

• Fans passionate about analytics, sabermetrics, and player evaluation

Course Highlights:

• Live Mentorship: Participate in weekly live Zoom sessions with Ari Kaplan, where you can ask questions and receive direct feedback on your work.

• Hands-On Projects: Work on real-world baseball analytics projects using MLB-style data and tools.

• Resume Enhancement: Access a resume redesign service tailored to careers in baseball analytics and sports data.

• SMWW Certification: Earn a certificate from SMWW that demonstrates your proficiency in baseball analytics, recognized by teams and employers across the sports industry.

Get Started:

Begin your journey into baseball analytics today. For more details and to enroll, visit the SMWW Baseball Analytics course page.

Course Overview:

Step into the front office of professional basketball with SMWW’s 8-week online Basketball GM & Scouting course, led by Rick Sund—a 40-year NBA executive and former GM and executive with the Seattle Sonics, Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, and Dallas Mavericks—and Carl Berman, Managing Partner at Netscouts Basketball. This course is designed to equip you with the essential skills and insider knowledge needed to pursue a career in basketball scouting, player personnel, and general management. Whether you're aiming to work in the NBA, G League, college basketball, or internationally, this program provides the foundational expertise required to break into the basketball operations side of the game.

What You’ll Learn:

• Scouting Fundamentals: Understand how to evaluate players at every position using NBA-caliber grading systems and techniques.

• Player Evaluation Tools: Learn how to analyze game film, write detailed scouting reports, and assess intangibles like character, basketball IQ, and work ethic.

• Roster Construction & Salary Cap: Gain insight into how general managers build rosters and navigate the complexities of the NBA salary cap and contracts.

• Draft Strategy & Process: Explore the full NBA Draft process—from player evaluation and draft boards to decision-making and strategy in the war room.

• Basketball Operations Structure: Learn how front offices are organized and operated, including collaboration between coaches, scouts, and personnel departments.

Why Learn from Rick Sund & Carl Berman:

Rick Sund brings over 40 years of experience as an NBA executive, having served as General Manager and executive for multiple NBA franchises, including the Seattle Sonics, Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, and Dallas Mavericks. Rick offers unparalleled insights into the inner workings of NBA front offices, talent evaluation, and team building at the highest level.

Carl Berman is the Managing Partner of Netscouts Basketball, with extensive experience in basketball scouting and player evaluation. Carl provides students with professional scouting techniques, draft preparation strategies, and firsthand knowledge of the basketball scouting industry.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring general managers and pro/college basketball scouts

• Coaches and players transitioning to front office roles

• Sports management professionals interested in basketball operations

• Basketball enthusiasts ready to pursue a career in the sport

Course Highlights:

• Live Mentorship: Engage in weekly live Zoom sessions with Rick Sund and Carl Berman, where you can ask questions and receive direct feedback.

• Scouting Portfolio: Create a portfolio of scouting reports and player evaluations based on real game film and NBA grading practices.

• Resume Enhancement: Participate in a resume redesign service to tailor your experience for basketball industry careers.

• SMWW Certification: Earn a certificate from SMWW that demonstrates your knowledge in basketball operations and scouting, respected throughout the sports industry.

Get Started:

Begin your journey into the business of basketball today. For more details and to enroll, visit the SMWW Basketball GM & Scouting course page.

Course Overview:

Step into the front office and learn what it takes to build a championship hockey team with SMWW’s 8-week online Hockey GM & Scouting course. Taught by hockey leaders Doug MacLean (former NHL GM, President, and Head Coach), Mike Oke (GM & VP of Operations for the Peterborough Petes), and Dino Caputo (Regional Scout for the Penticton Vees of the BCHL), this course offers a behind-the-scenes look at the business and strategy of hockey team management and player evaluation. Whether you’re pursuing a role in scouting, coaching, or front office operations, this course will give you the tools and insider knowledge to take your hockey career to the next level.

What You’ll Learn:

General Manager Responsibilities: Understand the duties of a GM, from player personnel decisions to managing budgets, team building, and organizational culture.

Scouting and Talent Evaluation: Learn how to scout players at various levels, assess their potential, and contribute to the drafting and recruitment process.

Hockey Operations & Team Structure: Explore how successful hockey organizations are structured, and how each department—from scouting to coaching—contributes to team success.

Draft Preparation & Player Development: Discover the process of preparing for junior and professional drafts, and how to nurture talent post-selection.

Team Building Strategies: Examine real-world case studies to understand what separates average teams from championship contenders.

Why Learn from Doug MacLean, Mike Oke, and Dino Caputo:

Doug MacLean brings a wealth of NHL experience as the former President and General Manager of the Columbus Blue Jackets and Head Coach of the Florida Panthers, who he led to the 1996 Stanley Cup Final. His executive insights and media presence make him a respected authority in the hockey world.

Mike Oke serves as the General Manager and VP of Operations for the Peterborough Petes, bringing a practical, day-to-day perspective on managing a junior hockey franchise and developing players.

Dino Caputo scouts elite junior talent for the BCHL’s Penticton Vees and offers real-world expertise in identifying and developing young prospects for higher levels of play.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring General Managers and front office executives

• Amateur and professional scouts

• Hockey coaches seeking a broader operational understanding

• Player development and personnel professionals

• Individuals pursuing careers in hockey operations or analytics

Course Highlights:

Live Mentorship: Participate in weekly live Zoom sessions with Doug MacLean, Mike Oke, and Dino Caputo, where you can ask questions and receive direct feedback.

Scouting Portfolio Development: Build your own scouting portfolio using actual game film, evaluations, and templates used by professional scouts.

Front Office Simulation: Experience real-life GM responsibilities through exercises in roster management, trade evaluation, and cap planning.

Career Credential: Earn a certificate from SMWW that demonstrates your knowledge in hockey operations, scouting, and team management—respected across the hockey industry.

Get Started:

Start building your career in professional hockey management today. For more details and to enroll, visit the SMWW Hockey GM & Scouting course.

Course Overview:

Step into the front office of professional football with SMWW’s 8-week online Football GM & Scouting course, led by Dane Vandernat—Director of Pro Personnel for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats—and Russ Lande, a former NFL scout and football analyst. This course is designed to equip you with the essential skills and insider knowledge needed to pursue a career in football scouting, player personnel, and general management. Whether you're aiming to work in the NFL, CFL, college football, or beyond, this program provides the foundational expertise required to break into the football operations side of the game.

What You’ll Learn:

• Scouting Fundamentals: Understand how to evaluate players at every position using NFL-caliber grading systems and techniques.

• Player Evaluation Tools: Learn how to analyze film, write professional scouting reports, and assess key intangibles like character, football IQ, and work ethic.

• Salary Cap & Roster Management: Gain insight into how general managers structure rosters and navigate the complexities of the salary cap.

• Draft Strategy & Process: Explore the full NFL Draft process—from player evaluation and draft boards to war room decision-making and strategy.

• Football Operations Structure: Learn how front offices are built and operated, including the collaboration between coaches, scouts, and personnel departments.

Why Learn from Dane Vandernat & Russ Lande:

Dane Vandernat brings years of experience working in NFL front offices, including serving as the Director of Pro Scouting for the Oakland Raiders. He now leads pro personnel for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL. Dane offers valuable insights into the daily operations of a front office, talent evaluation processes, and how personnel decisions are made at the professional level.

Russ Lande has worked as a scout for the Cleveland Browns and St. Louis Rams, and has contributed as a football analyst for FOX Sports and The Athletic. With extensive experience evaluating talent and building draft boards, Russ provides students with proven techniques and professional standards used by scouts across the NFL and collegiate ranks.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring general managers and pro/college scouts

• Coaches and players transitioning to front office roles

• Sports management professionals interested in football operations

• Football enthusiasts ready to pursue a career in the sport

Course Highlights:

• Live Mentorship: Engage in weekly live Zoom sessions with Dane Vandernat and Russ Lande, where you can ask questions and receive direct feedback.

• Scouting Portfolio: Create a portfolio of scouting reports and evaluations based on real film and NFL grading practices.

• Resume Enhancement: Participate in a resume redesign service to tailor your experience for football industry careers.

• SMWW Certification: Earn a certificate from SMWW that demonstrates your knowledge in football operations and scouting, respected throughout the sports industry.

Get Started:

Begin your journey into the business of football today. For more details and to enroll, visit the SMWW Football GM & Scouting course page.

Course Overview:

Step into the data-driven future of hockey with SMWW’s 8-week online Hockey Analytics course, taught by industry leaders Mike Oke, General Manager and VP of Operations for the Peterborough Petes, and Clair Cornish, NHL Scout and analytics expert. This course demystifies the world of hockey analytics, equipping students with the skills to collect, analyze, and apply data to real-world hockey decisions. Whether you're aiming to work in scouting, coaching, front office management, or performance analysis, this course provides the analytical foundation needed to thrive in the modern hockey landscape.

What You’ll Learn:

Hockey Analytics Fundamentals: Explore the core principles of hockey analytics, from basic stats to advanced metrics like Corsi, Fenwick, and Expected Goals (xG).

Player Performance Evaluation: Learn how to use analytics to assess individual and team performance, identify inefficiencies, and uncover undervalued talent.

Scouting and Recruitment: Understand how data complements traditional scouting to make better-informed player personnel decisions.

Game Strategy & Tactics: Analyze how teams use data to shape tactics, line combinations, special teams strategy, and in-game decision-making.

Building an Analytics Department: Gain insights into how NHL teams are structuring their analytics departments and integrating data into hockey operations.

Why Learn from Mike Oke and Clair Cornish:

Mike Oke brings over two decades of experience in junior and professional hockey operations. As GM of the Peterborough Petes, he’s responsible for building competitive rosters through a combination of scouting and analytics-driven decision-making.

Clair Cornish is a seasoned NHL Scout and analytics specialist, with deep experience in data collection, interpretation, and application at the professional level. His hands-on knowledge bridges the gap between analytics theory and real-world hockey outcomes.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring hockey analysts and data scientists

• NHL, AHL, and junior team staff

• Coaches and player development professionals

• Scouts and hockey operations personnel

• Students pursuing careers in sports analytics or management

Course Highlights:

Live Interactive Mentorship: Engage directly with Mike Oke and Clair Cornish through weekly live Zoom sessions, offering insider insights and real-time feedback.

Hands-On Data Projects: Work with real hockey data to perform statistical analysis, build visualizations, and present findings in a professional format.

Career-Ready Curriculum: Learn the tools, platforms, and methods used by NHL front offices to support data-driven decision-making.

Certificate of Completion: Bolster your resume with a recognized credential in hockey analytics from SMWW, trusted by sports professionals worldwide.

Get Started:

Embrace the future of hockey and turn your passion for numbers into a powerful career advantage. To learn more and enroll, visit the SMWW Hockey Analytics course.

Course Overview:

Elevate your understanding of basketball player development with SMWW’s 8-week online Basketball Player Development & Strategy course. Led by industry veterans Larry Riley and Irv Roland, this course offers a comprehensive look at the methodologies and strategies that shape elite basketball talent. Whether you're aiming to become a player development coach, scout, or front office executive, this course provides the tools and insights to advance your career in basketball.

What You’ll Learn:

• Player Development Fundamentals: Understand the core principles of developing basketball players, from skill enhancement to mental conditioning.

• Training Methodologies: Learn effective training techniques and drills to improve player performance and readiness.

• Scouting and Evaluation: Gain skills in assessing player potential and identifying talent for recruitment.

• Team Dynamics and Culture: Explore how team culture influences player development and overall success.

• Career Pathways: Discover various career opportunities in basketball player development and strategies to pursue them.

Why Learn from Larry Riley and Irv Roland:

• Larry Riley: With over 50 years of professional basketball experience, Larry Riley has held significant roles including Senior Advisor of Basketball Operations for the Atlanta Hawks and General Manager of the Golden State Warriors. He is renowned for drafting NBA stars Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.

• Irv Roland: A seasoned NBA assistant coach and personal trainer for elite players such as Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden, Irv Roland brings practical insights into player development and training.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring player development coaches

• Basketball scouts and analysts

• Individuals interested in front office operations

• Those looking to enhance their understanding of basketball training and development

Course Highlights:

• Live Mentorship: Engage in weekly live Zoom sessions with Larry Riley and Irv Roland for direct interaction and guidance.

• Practical Application: Apply learned concepts through assignments and projects that simulate real-world scenarios.

• Career Support: Receive ongoing career advice and access to the SMWW network for professional growth.

• Certification: Earn a certificate upon completion, demonstrating your expertise in basketball player development.

Get Started:

Begin your journey in basketball player development today. For more details and to enroll, visit the SMWW Basketball Player Development & Strategy course.

Course Overview:

Step into the world of professional baseball representation with SMWW’s 8-week online Baseball Agent course, led by two of the most respected agents in the industry: John Boggs and Oscar Suarez. This comprehensive program provides an insider’s look into the baseball agent profession, covering everything from recruitment and contract negotiations to navigating MLBPA regulations and managing client relationships. Whether you're aiming to represent MLB players or expand your agency's reach, this course equips you with the knowledge and skills to succeed.

What You’ll Learn:

• Recruitment & Scouting: Develop strategies to identify and approach potential clients, including high school, college, and international players.

• Contract Negotiation: Gain insights into structuring deals, understanding collective bargaining agreements, and negotiating terms that benefit your clients.

• MLBPA Certification Process: Learn the steps required to become a certified MLB Players Association agent and the responsibilities that come with it.

• Endorsements & Sponsorships: Explore opportunities for securing off-field income for your clients through brand partnerships and endorsements.

• Client Management: Understand how to build and maintain strong, professional relationships with athletes, teams, and other stakeholders.

Why Learn from John Boggs & Oscar Suarez:

• John Boggs: With over 35 years of experience, John has negotiated nearly $1 billion in MLB contracts. His clients have included legends like Tony Gwynn, Ichiro Suzuki, and Cole Hamels. As President & CEO of JBA Sports, John brings unparalleled expertise in athlete representation. 

• Oscar Suarez: An active MLBPA certified agent with over 30 clients, Oscar has represented players such as Joakim Soria and Ed Vosberg. He also has extensive experience in international markets, assisting players in extending their careers in Asia. 

Ideal For:

• Aspiring MLB agents

• Sports management professionals

• Individuals interested in athlete representation

• Those seeking to expand their knowledge of the baseball industry

Course Highlights:

• Live Mentorship: Engage in weekly live Zoom sessions with John Boggs and Oscar Suarez, offering direct access to their wealth of knowledge and experience.

• Real-World Application: Analyze actual player contracts, recruitment strategies, and agent responsibilities in both domestic and international baseball markets.

• Certification Preparation: Understand the steps required to become an MLBPA-certified agent and how to build a credible agency.

• Resume-Boosting Credential: Earn a certificate from SMWW that demonstrates your knowledge in baseball agent practices—respected across the sports industry.

Get Started:

Begin your journey into baseball representation today. For more information and to enroll, visit the SMWW Baseball Agent Course.

One of the most common questions I get is, “How do I break into sports if I don’t know anyone?” And my answer is always the same: Start where you are—and be strategic about it.

I’ve spent 50+ years in the sports industry, and I’ve seen people with zero connections go on to work for major league teams, top agencies, and powerhouse organizations. The secret? They stopped waiting for the perfect opportunity and created momentum themselves.

Here’s how you can do the same:

Engage Online with Purpose: LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and even Instagram are powerful tools when used intentionally. Follow professionals in the roles you want. Like their posts. Comment with insight or a question. Over time, people start to recognize your name—and that’s the beginning of a relationship.

Ask, Don’t Pitch: Instead of messaging someone with, “Can you get me a job?” ask, “What advice would you give someone trying to follow a similar path?” That shows humility and respect—and it opens the door to real conversation. Most people want to help, but no one wants to be cornered.

Volunteer Where You Can: Can you help at a local tournament? Work the gate at a high school game? Pass out flyers at a minor league event? These things may feel small—but they put you in the room. They build trust. And they get noticed.

Follow Up Like a Pro: If someone gives you advice, send a thank-you message. If they suggest a resource, read it—and let them know you did. You’d be shocked how many people never follow through. Be the one who does.

Offer to Help, Not Take: The best way to stand out? Ask how you can be of service. Maybe someone’s planning an event, running a podcast, or needs help with a project. Offer your support. Show your value first, then let the relationship grow naturally.

Nobody is born with a sports network. We all build it—one genuine interaction at a time.

And if you're willing to show up, stay curious, and put people first, you’ll find that the right connections have a way of finding you.

— Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide

Course Overview:

Enter the fast-paced world of professional hockey representation with SMWW’s 8-week online Hockey Agent course, led by legendary NHL agent Rick Curran of the ORR Hockey Group. This program delivers an inside look into the business of hockey, covering everything from scouting talent and building client relationships to understanding league rules, the NHL Collective Bargaining Agreement, and the player representation process. Whether your goal is to become a certified agent, scout, or executive, this course offers the foundational knowledge and industry access needed to succeed in professional hockey.

What You’ll Learn:

Player Representation Fundamentals: Understand the role and responsibilities of an NHLPA-certified agent and how to represent hockey players at all levels—from juniors to the pros.

NHL CBA Essentials: Learn how the NHL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement impacts player movement, salary structure, free agency, and arbitration.

Scouting and Recruiting Talent: Discover how agents identify, evaluate, and recruit hockey talent, and build long-term relationships with players and their families.

Contract Negotiation: Gain insight into the strategies agents use to negotiate entry-level, restricted free agent, and unrestricted free agent contracts.

Career Development Planning: Learn how agents guide players through career transitions, endorsement opportunities, and post-playing careers.

Why Learn from Rick Curran:

Rick Curran is one of hockey’s most respected agents, representing elite NHL players for over four decades. As a senior agent with the ORR Hockey Group, Rick has worked with stars like Doug Weight, Eric Staal, and Brendan Gallagher. His reputation for integrity and deep understanding of the business makes him a trusted voice in the industry and an invaluable mentor for aspiring hockey professionals.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring NHL agents and player representatives

• Hockey scouts and team personnel

• Sports executives and front office staff

• Hockey coaches and player development professionals

• Individuals seeking careers in hockey operations or athlete management

Course Highlights:

Live Mentorship: Participate in weekly live Zoom chats with Rick Curran and SMWW staff, providing direct access to a top-tier NHL agent.

Real-World Application: Analyze actual player contracts, recruitment strategies, and agent responsibilities in North American and international hockey.

NHLPA Certification Prep: Learn the steps required to become an NHLPA-certified agent and how to build a credible agency.

Resume-Boosting Certification: Stand out in the sports industry with a certificate endorsed by a premier hockey agency and SMWW.

Get Started:

Take the first step toward a career in hockey representation by enrolling today. For more information and to sign up, visit the SMWW Hockey Agent course.

Thinking about a career in hockey? Your opportunity starts here.

The business of hockey is more competitive than ever. From team operations to scouting, media, analytics, and player representation, breaking into the industry requires more than passion—it demands proximity, preparation, and powerful connections.

That’s exactly what the SMWW Hockey Career Conference delivers.

Taking place June 26–28 in Los Angeles, this year’s event is strategically aligned with NHL Draft Week, providing attendees with unprecedented access to key decision-makers in the hockey world.

Here’s what makes this conference different:

1. NHL Draft Tickets Included

All attendees will receive access to all seven rounds of the NHL Draft. This behind-the-scenes vantage point puts you inside the energy and excitement of hockey’s biggest event.

2. Learn from the Pros

SMWW is proud to announce a growing roster of high-impact speakers, including:

• Chris Burkett, Vice President, League Operations – PWHL
• Mike Oke, General Manager – Peterborough Petes
• Doug MacLean, Former NHL President, GM & Head Coach
• Dino Caputo, Regional Scout – Penticton Vees
• EJ Hradek, Senior Reporter – NHL Network
• Dr. Lynn Lashbrook, SMWW President & Sports Agent

With more speakers to be announced, this lineup offers direct insights into the inner workings of hockey careers at the highest level.

3. Intimate, High-Access Environment

This is not a convention center cattle call. The Hockey Career Conference is purposefully small to ensure attendees can ask real questions, build authentic connections, and leave with actionable next steps.

4. For Anyone Looking to Work in Hockey

Whether you're interested in becoming a GM, agent, scout, or sports broadcaster—or you're still figuring out where you fit—this conference will give you a clearer path forward, a stronger network, and inspiration to keep going.

5. A Track Record of Impact

SMWW alumni work for NHL teams, junior clubs, media outlets, and player agencies across North America. Many got their first foot in the door by showing up at events just like this one.

Event Details: Dates: June 26–28, 2025 Location: LA LIVE, Los Angeles Hosted by: Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) Includes: Admission to all 7 rounds of the NHL Draft

Want to work in hockey? Start here. Spots are limited, and registration is now open. Learn more and secure your seat today: SMWW.com/conferences/nhl-draft-sports-career-conference

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