Over the years, I’ve seen talent rise. I’ve also seen it stall.

What makes the difference? Relationships.

In every corner of the sports world—front offices, agency firms, analytics departments, marketing teams—it’s relationships that drive opportunity. Skills will get your foot in the door, but relationships are what help you stay and grow.

When I talk to hiring managers, coaches, and executives, they always say the same thing: “We hire people we know—or people someone we trust knows.”

It’s not favoritism. It’s trust. Sports is a fast-moving, high-pressure industry. People want teammates they can count on.

That’s why building your network isn't optional—it’s essential. But here’s the part most people get wrong: networking isn’t about who you know. It’s about who knows you—and how you make them feel when they do.

Are you curious? Reliable? Are you showing up early and staying engaged, even when you’re not in the spotlight?

I've seen interns become executives because they took initiative, treated everyone with respect, and followed through. I've seen students land their dream jobs because they connected with one person who remembered their passion.

Relationships can be built anywhere—online, in the classroom, in the stands, or even in a hallway at a conference. But you have to be intentional. Don’t wait for the big introduction. Make it.

Send the follow-up email. Show gratitude. Offer to help. Be bold, but be human.

You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to be willing to learn and connect with people who’ve been where you want to go.

Because in the sports industry, people remember people. Especially the ones who show up with heart, hustle, and humility.

— Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide