Elon Sports Vision | Today at Elon | ��޹��Ʒ

Commencement 2026: Abigail Selikoff ’26 turned game-day experiences into career preparation

Tommy Kopetskie — Mon, 11 May 2026 13:06:30 +0000

As part of her internship experience with NASCAR, Abby Selikoff ’26 attended a NASCAR Cup Series race in Martinsville, Virginia, in November 2024.

On Dec. 6, 2025, day started not in Elon, but Charlotte.

By 8 a.m., the Elon senior was already at the Spectrum Center, one of the Queen City’s marquee entertainment venues, helping with operations for a neutral-site college basketball matchup between Dayton and Virginia. Hours later, she was darting through the tunnels of Bank of America Stadium as part of the Atlantic Coast Conference Football Championship Game staff, helping coordinate pregame activities, managing an on-field photo experience for youth teams, and assisting with postgame celebrations after Duke’s dramatic victory over Virginia.

During her first campus visit, Selikoff knew Elon was the right fit.

In between, there were meetings, setup responsibilities, logistics and constant communication. The football championship game eventually stretched beyond regulation, adding even more chaos to an already packed day.

For Selikoff, though, the day never felt overwhelming.

“It doesn’t really feel like work because I love what I’m doing,” she said. “It’s rewarding because you ultimately get to see the experience that it brings at the end of the day.”

That whirlwind Saturday last fall captured much of Selikoff’s Elon experience – ambitious, hands-on and deeply connected to the sport industry she hopes to build a career in after graduation.

A double major in cinema and television arts and sport management, Selikoff arrived at Elon from northern New Jersey already knowing she wanted a university where relationships with professors and classmates grew naturally. After visiting campus during her senior year of high school, the decision came quickly.

“The second we drove through campus, I told my parents, ‘I’m done,’” she said. “I knew this was where I wanted to be.”

Once at Elon, she wasted little time getting involved.

Selikoff joined Elon Sports Vision during her first semester and directed her first broadcast before fall break. She also became involved with the Sport Management Society, an organization that shaped much of her college experience, and Women Influencers in Sports. After serving in various leadership roles, she now leads the society as president, helping connect students with industry professionals through networking events, facility tours and guest speakers.

“What stands out most about Abby is her ability to pair intellectual curiosity with real-world execution,” said Shaina Dabbs, associate professor and chair in the Department of Sport Management. “She is someone who doesn’t just show up, she fully invests in every opportunity in front of her. Simply put, she says ‘yes.’ Whether in the classroom, in research, or in the industry, Abby consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a genuine desire to learn.”

Selikoff’s willingness to embrace opportunity eventually led her to participate in The Sport Experience in Charlotte during fall 2024, where she balanced 18 credit hours with internships at both NASCAR and the ACC.

At NASCAR, she worked with digital products, supporting the organization’s website, app, fantasy platform and fan rewards program. Simultaneously, she served as a Football Game Day Operations Center intern with the ACC, monitoring games and helping ensure smooth coordination between on-site officials and conference staff in Charlotte.

By the end of the semester, Selikoff had completed more than 500 internship hours.

The experience – and her work ethic – opened the door to additional opportunities with the ACC. Over the next two years, Selikoff worked more than 25 football games while also supporting conference championships and events in basketball, gymnastics, baseball and tennis.

One of her favorite experiences came when the ACC sent her on-site to shadow replay officials during football games at North Carolina and N.C. State, attending pre- and post-game meetings in the process.

Selikoff conducted extensive undergraduate research on sustainability marketing and consumer perceptions in professional sports.

“Being part of those big-game environments was incredible,” Selikoff said. “I got to see firsthand the communication between the game officials and Charlotte, and then bring what I learned back into the office.”

Dabbs said Selikoff fully embraced Elon’s experiential learning model.

“Abby is a great example of a student who maximized the Elon experience by intentionally connecting academics with industry opportunities,” Dabbs said. “What is particularly impressive is how she did not treat these as isolated experiences – she built a cohesive skillset across operations, media and fan engagement.”

Alongside her internships and leadership roles, Selikoff also immersed herself in undergraduate research under the mentorship of Young Do Kim, associate professor of sport management, and Tony Weaver, associate dean in the School of Communications.

Since fall 2023, she has investigated how professional sports organizations market sustainability initiatives and how those efforts shape consumer perceptions, gaining valuable insights into sustainability, marketing and environmental communications. The research led her to complete IRB approval and CITI certification, present at Elon’s Summer Undergraduate Research Experience and Spring Undergraduate Research Forum, and share her findings at the Sport Marketing Association Conference in Arizona. Additionally, she is currently working on a manuscript based on her results.

“I never thought I would be doing undergraduate research,” Selikoff admitted. “But I’ve loved it throughout the entire process.”

Abby Selikoff (right) and her younger sister, Emily ’28, have treasured the opportunity to experience Elon together – both on main campus and in Charlotte.

Beyond academics and internships, Selikoff credits Elon’s faculty mentors with helping her grow personally and professionally.

She points to Kim, Dabbs, Weaver and Staci Saltz, chair of the Department of Cinema and Television Arts, as key influences throughout her four years on campus.

“The Sport Management Department is incredibly close-knit,” Selikoff said. “It feels kind of like a family. I can go to professors for anything – whether it’s personal or academic – and they’ve all had a strong impact on me.”

Fittingly, Selikoff’s Elon experience actually became a family affair when her younger sister, Emily, enrolled at the university two years ago. The two regularly meet for meals, cross paths in the School of Communications, and share many of the same academic interests.

“It’s honestly been really great having her here,” Selikoff said. “It’s like having an extra piece of home.”

After graduation, Selikoff hopes to return to Charlotte and continue building a career in sports media, communications or event operations. Whatever path she ultimately takes, she leaves Elon with the kind of hands-on experience many young professionals spend years trying to find.

Elon senior Philip Doherty steps into NHL broadcast role

Tommy Kopetskie — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 14:01:59 +0000

Philip Doherty ’26, a cinema and television arts major, works from a FanDuel remote production truck outside Lenovo Center in Raleigh on March 12, overseeing the live production as technical director for a St. Louis Blues broadcast.

arrived at Elon without knowing a single role inside a broadcast control room – not the technical director, not the replay operator, not even how the production itself came together. Four years later, the cinema and television arts major now operates at the highest level, having stepped into an NHL television broadcast.

“Since my first year, I’ve tried to immerse myself in Elon Sports Vision as much as possible, attempting to absorb and learn if 1, this is what I wanted to do, and 2, if I found it fun,” Doherty said. “Ultimately, I fell in love with broadcasting sports.”

“Philip is one of the most talented and hard-working students I have ever had the pleasure to teach – and as of a few days ago, work with professionally,” Assistant Professor Max Negin said. According to the Elon professor, Doherty’s trajectory places him among a growing group of Elon alumni working at the highest levels of the industry, including Zora Stephenson ’15 (NBC Sports), Erik Kendall ’11 (Fox Sports South and the Charlotte Hornets), Jacob LaPlante ’17 (a freelancer), Emmanuel Tobe ’21 (Droga5) and Peter Fortunato ’21 (University of Florida) – and he noted he could name many more.

That immersion opened the door to a rare opportunity: Doherty served as technical director for a March 12 St. Louis Blues NHL broadcast, managing the live production from a FanDuel remote truck outside Lenovo Center as the show was delivered back to St. Louis. Assistant Professor Max Negin, who worked the same game as a replay operator and editor, said the opportunity reflects just how unique Doherty’s rise has been.

“It’s truly rare for someone this early in their career to work a professional hockey game for a regional network,” Negin said.

Even more remarkable, Negin noted, was how Doherty prepared for the role – teaching himself to operate one of the industry’s most complex switchers while learning to manage the pace and precision required at the professional level.

“Learning a very complicated switcher, basically on his own, is something I’ve never heard of anyone doing in my 30-plus years of television,” Negin said. “But beyond the equipment, Philip also was able to build a show and work in a high-pressure environment without making any major mistakes – again, something that seasoned and very experienced TDs don’t do.”

Doherty’s path to that moment was built through hands-on experience and initiative. After gaining early experience with Elon Sports Vision and working as a technical director for Elon football broadcasts, he began building connections that opened doors to freelance opportunities on college football broadcasts across ESPN platforms.

“The biggest thing I learned at Elon isn’t my technical skill, but rather the people skills,” Doherty said. “Building connections and relationships by far has been the most important component. If I hadn’t attempted to talk to people in the real world, I wouldn’t have been able to do anything I have gotten to do.”

Doherty credited a group of Elon mentors and collaborators – including Quintin Brenner, John Spitznagel, Annika Cronin, Patrick Cunningham and Negin – for helping him develop his skills and navigate the industry.

“I couldn’t have gotten to where I am today without the people at Elon helping me out along the way.”
– Philip Doherty ’26

Those connections became critical in preparing for his first NHL assignment. After being hired, Doherty reached out to the broadcast’s director in advance, studying materials and workflows so he could step into the truck prepared.

Instead of focusing on visual flair, he concentrated on the fundamentals – building the elements needed to get the show on air – from sponsored segments to in-game transitions.

By the end of the broadcast, the feedback was immediate. Negin said professionals on site – from crew members to network leadership – were impressed not only with Doherty’s performance, but with how seamlessly he operated.

“Everyone involved said he did a great job and wants him back the next time St. Louis comes to town,” the professor said.

For Negin, Doherty’s trajectory is almost unheard of. “To me, this is like an Elon baseball player jumping from Division I baseball games, and within a year, starting in the major leagues and making an all-star team,” he said.

Now, with his first NHL broadcast complete, Doherty sees it as confirmation he’s on the right path.

“This NHL show only confirmed that this industry is for me, and I am stoked to continue onward,” he said. “I cannot wait to see what comes down the road.”

Seth Davis, industry leaders explore the evolving business of live sports

Tommy Kopetskie — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 20:52:24 +0000

A student finds a seat in a packed Turner Theatre on Feb. 25 to hear CBS Sports analyst Seth Davis speak at the 2026 Sport Management Symposium.

Live sports may be the last true mass audience in media – and the future of how fans watch them is rapidly changing. That was the focus of the 2026 Sport Management Symposium, where award-winning sports writer and broadcaster Seth Davis headlined a conversation about the evolving business of live sports.

A student takes notes as Davis and Assistant Professor Bill Squadron delve into Davis’ career in sports media.

Held Feb. 25, in Turner Theatre, the annual symposium explored how live sports continue to adjust across broadcast, cable and streaming platforms – and what those changes mean for leagues, networks and fans. Davis joined the symposium virtually after a blizzard in the Northeast disrupted his broadcast schedule.

.

In a wide-ranging conversation with Assistant Professor Bill Squadron, Davis offered students an unfiltered look at how disruption – from digital media to NIL to legalized sports betting – is transforming the industry.

Davis reflected on two major inflection points that transformed sports media during his career: the rise of the internet and the advent of the iPhone and social media. He described how legacy media companies were slow to adapt to digital distribution models, fundamentally altering the economics of journalism. Yet despite rapid technological change – and the emergence of artificial intelligence – Davis emphasized that the fundamentals of storytelling endure.

“There is still an appetite, particularly in the world of sports, for compelling programming and good storytelling,” he said.

He also addressed the growing challenge of misinformation and AI-generated content, noting that journalism has never been more important as audiences navigate an increasingly fragmented information ecosystem.

Turning to college athletics, Davis described the NIL and transfer portal era as a “mass disruption,” shaped by long-standing legal vulnerabilities in the NCAA model. He discussed how expanded athlete compensation and annual free agency have made programs more transactional, complicating roster stability and culture-building while also increasing athletes’ earning power and freedom.

Sports Business Journal reporter Austin Karp shares a thought during the “League TV Rights Strategy in a Shifting Media Landscape” panel.

Davis also addressed the normalization of legalized sports betting and its impact on media coverage. Once referenced subtly during broadcasts, betting lines and odds are now openly discussed, creating new revenue streams while raising new ethical and regulatory questions for leagues and media companies alike.

Throughout the conversation, Davis returned to a central theme for students preparing to enter the industry: adaptability matters, but strong reporting is essential. In a media landscape crowded with podcasts and commentary, he urged aspiring professionals to focus on credibility and expertise.

“Become a good reporter, become an expert, develop your sources, develop your traction in the space, and you got a chance to stand out and move forward,” Davis said.

The symposium continued with two expert panels that examined the industry from league, network and technology perspectives.

Sports media consultant John Kosner emphasized the importance of reach, revenue and strong storytelling in navigating today’s evolving media marketplace.

The first panel, “League TV Rights Strategy in a Shifting Media Landscape,” featured Tyler McBride of the Atlantic Coast Conference, sports media consultant John Kosner and Sports Business Journal reporter Austin Karp. The discussion centered on the delicate balance leagues must strike between revenue and reach as traditional cable subscriptions decline and streaming platforms multiply.

The panelists emphasized that media rights negotiations are no longer solely about dollars. Exposure, demographic reach and production quality now play critical roles in determining the right partner.

Framing live sports as the industry’s last true mass audience driver, Kosner made the stakes clear: “You can’t be in the advertising business going forward, if you’re not big in sports,” he said.

The group also examined the growing influence of technology companies in the sports rights marketplace. While legacy networks once relied heavily on subscriber bundles, streaming platforms operate under different economic models, with advertising and global scale driving long-term strategy. Panelists noted that must-have properties – such as the NFL, NBA and major college football – continue to command escalating fees, while mid-tier and regional properties face growing pressure in an increasingly selective marketplace.

Elon alumnus Alex Day ’16 (center) returned to campus to share his insights during the “Tech Companies, Streaming and Sports Content” panel. Also pictured are journalist Michele Steele (left) and former Amazon Prime Video sports strategy executive Michael Morris.

The second panel, “Tech Companies, Streaming and Sports Content,” shifted the focus to distribution, content creation and the changing nature of sports media careers. Media executive and journalist Michele Steele, former Amazon Prime Video sports strategy executive Michael Morris and Elon alumnus Alex Day ’16 shared perspectives from traditional broadcast, streaming and digital-first content environments.

Panelists explored how streaming platforms and social media have lowered barriers to entry while simultaneously increasing competition. Steele described the ongoing shift away from linear television, noting that sports remain one of the few forms of content that consistently drive live audiences. Morris provided insight into how tech companies evaluate sports rights as part of broader entertainment and advertising strategies.

Day, a rising voice in New York sports media, offered a firsthand account of building a career at the intersection of social media, brand partnerships and live sports coverage, explaining that content creators are increasingly operating as independent media brands.

“There’s not a great barrier to entry right now, so you have to come up with some creative ideas to do it a little bit differently, get people engaged,” Day said, encouraging students to differentiate themselves in a crowded digital landscape.

Anthony Bamford ’25 to lead Elon Sports Vision

Tommy Kopetskie — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:38:39 +0000

Anthony Bamford ’25 is coming back to Elon Sports Vision to do more than run broadcasts – he’s focused on building a mentorship-driven program that prepares students for professional careers in sports media.

Former ESV student crew member Anthony Bamford ’25 now leads Elon Sports Vision as coordinating producer, mentoring students and overseeing live broadcasts of Elon Athletics.

A former Elon Sports Vision (ESV) student crew member, Bamford was recently named the initiative’s coordinating producer, overseeing live broadcasts of Elon Athletics events while working closely with students as they develop technical, creative and leadership skills.

“I was interested in the coordinating producer role because I saw firsthand what the role entailed while I was an undergrad and the seasonal diversity across the men’s and women’s sports,” Bamford said. “ESV provided me with a wonderful opportunity to learn all aspects of sports broadcasting. I experienced everything from camera operation, to replay, to producing and directing a live broadcast – and I hope to offer the same for current and future students.”

Following his graduation in May, Bamford gained professional experience as the director of multimedia for the Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA), responsible for the coordination and improved production of the league’s streaming efforts. The position placed him in charge of remote broadcasts, collaborating with schools and announcers nationwide.

“My role at the CWPA taught me how to work in extremely fast-paced environments while managing multiple projects,” he said.

Bamford’s professional background – and the mentorship mindset he brings to the role – stood out to Bryan Baker, the School of Communications’ director of technology, operations and multimedia projects.

“Anthony was a terrific student at Elon who consistently took full advantage of the opportunities offered by the School of Communications,” Baker said. “His background in sport management, media analytics, journalism, and as an ESV student producer uniquely positions him to be an outstanding mentor to students in his new role.”

As an undergraduate, Bamford (second from right) was a regular contributor to Elon Sports Vision broadcasts. Pictured (from left) are Scott Katz ’26, Bamford, Ben Ohlmeyer ’25 and Abigail Selikoff ’26.

A native of Royersford, Pa., Bamford brings experience from professional and collegiate sports operations. During his semester in The Sport Experience in Charlotte, he served as an Atlantic Coast Conference Football and Game Day Operations Center intern, including managing a 30-member volunteer staff at the 2023 ACC Football Championship Game. He has also worked as a game operations intern for the Durham Bulls of the International League and as a producer/broadcaster for Pottstown Community Television.

In addition to his production experience, Bamford completed undergraduate research through the university’s Sports Media Lab, conducting a qualitative analysis of sports gambling, pirating and social media consumption. The results of that research were published in the Sports Business Journal.

Looking ahead, Bamford plans to build on ESV’s tradition of high-quality broadcasts while emphasizing student development. And Bamford and ESV are starting from a good position – the organization captured its first-ever College Sports Media Award last spring.

“I would love to continue and expand ESV’s legacy of producing professional-level broadcasts for college athletics,” he said. “As a student, I was a member of a crew that won an award at SVG. As the coordinating producer, I want to make that the expectation for our future broadcasts.”

��޹��Ʒ Elon Sports Vision

Elon Sports Vision provides students with hands-on experience in broadcasting, content creation, sports marketing and in-venue productions for Elon’s NCAA Division I athletic department. Launched in 2017, ESV works closely with Elon Athletics to deliver live coverage of university sporting events with professional production standards. As coordinating producer, Bamford oversees a team of nearly 60 student employees and manages the execution of broadcasts across camera work, audio, graphics, live commentary and sideline reporting.

CBS Sports analyst Seth Davis to headline Feb. 25 symposium

Tommy Kopetskie — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 13:34:45 +0000

Seth Davis, CBS Sports analyst and award-winning sports journalist, will headline the Sport Management Symposium on Wednesday, Feb. 25, at ��޹��Ʒ. The annual symposium is open to students, faculty and staff, with free tickets also available for community guests.

Award-winning sports writer and broadcaster Seth Davis will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Sport Management Symposium, bringing his nationally recognized voice and deep experience in sports media to campus for a featured conversation on the future of live sports coverage.

The symposium will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 4:15 to 6:30 p.m. in Turner Theatre and will examine how live sports continue to evolve across broadcast, cable and streaming platforms – and what those changes mean for leagues, networks and fans. Elon community members, including students, faculty and staff, are all encouraged to attend. Off-campus community members are also welcome, but they are asked to reserve a (free) ticket beforehand.

A longtime fixture on CBS Sports’ studio coverage of college basketball and the NCAA Tournament, Davis is one of the most visible and influential figures in sports media today. He is also the founder of Hoops HQ, a digital media company focused on college basketball, and currently serves as managing editor for college basketball at The Athletic. Across television, print and digital platforms, Davis has spent decades shaping national conversations about sports and media.

The keynote will be presented as a live conversation with Bill Squadron, assistant professor of sport management.

“Seth Davis has had a front-row seat to nearly every major shift in sports media over the last two decades,” Squadron said. “From linear television to streaming to direct-to-consumer models, he understands both the business and the storytelling side of the industry. Having him on campus gives our students a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone who is helping define where live sports media is headed.”

Tyler McBride of the ACC, media consultant John Kosner and Sports Business Journal reporter Austin Karp will examine how leagues and rightsholders are adapting to today’s evolving media rights landscape.

Two expert panels will follow the keynote discussion.

The first panel, “League TV Rights Strategy in a Shifting Media Landscape,” will explore how leagues and rightsholders are navigating increasingly complex media arrangements. Panelists include Tyler McBride of the Atlantic Coast Conference, sports media consultant John Kosner, and Sports Business Journal reporter Austin Karp, whose collective experience spans pro and college media strategies, the digital transformation and coverage of major rights deals across television and streaming platforms.

Michael Morris, Michele Steele and Elon alumnus Alex Day ’16 will examine the growing role of tech and social platforms in shaping how sports content is distributed and consumed.

The second panel, “Tech Companies, Streaming and Sports Content,” will focus on the growing role of social media and technology companies in shaping sports distribution and fan engagement. Participants include former Amazon Prime Video sports strategy executive Michael Morris, media executive and journalist Michele Steele, and Alex Day ’16, an Elon alumnus who has emerged as a prominent voice in New York sports media. Day, who built a large following through digital-first content and now works with outlets including the YES Network, represents a new generation of sports broadcasters building careers across social, streaming and traditional platforms.

Hosted by ��޹��Ʒ’s Department of Sport Management, the annual symposium connects students with industry leaders to examine real-world trends shaping sports, media and fan engagement. Past keynote speakers have included ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips, former NASCAR President Steve Phelps, and former NFL Players Association Executive Director DeMaurice Smith.

Professionals help ‘demystify’ the sport industry at 2025 WINS Forum

Tommy Kopetskie — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 16:25:44 +0000

At the 2025 WINS Forum, held Nov. 14, panelists shared insights on the opportunities emerging across women’s sports. This included a panel titled “Monetizing Momentum: The New Era of Women’s Sports,” featuring (from left) Leela Srinivasan of Parity, Sara Toussaint of TMJ, Jenè Baclawski of USA Football, and Jenn Azara of Sports Business Journal. All photos by Ethan Wu ’27.

Students gained a clearer view of the sport industry last week as the School of Communications hosted its annual Women in Sports (WINS) Forum. The Nov. 14 event, shaped by the belief that industry professionals “bring authenticity, lived experience and context,” offered what Associate Professor of Sport Management Shaina Dabbs calls conversations that “demystify the sport landscape.”

Built around the theme “Sport. Strategy. Success. Shaping the Industry through Business, Brand and Community,” the forum brought together sport professionals, alumnae and students for discussions about the trends and challenges influencing the field today. The 2025 gathering continued the school’s tradition of connecting students with leaders who shape sport culture, business and community.

Sara Toussaint (right), co-CEO of TMJ, one of the first athlete representation agencies devoted to women’s football, looks on during a Nov. 14 panel discussion. Also pictured is Leela Srinivasan, CEO of Parity, a sports marketing and sponsorship platform focused on professional women athletes.

Interested in photos from the WINS Forum? .

The program in Turner Theatre opened with “Monetizing Momentum: The New Era of Women’s Sports,” a panel examining how women’s sports are redefining the business of athletics and driving new growth in media, sponsorship and fan engagement. The conversation featured Leela Srinivasan (Parity), Sara Toussaint (NC Courage & TMJ), Jenè Baclawski (USA Football), and moderator Jenn Azara (Sports Business Journal).

Building on that discussion, WINS undergraduate students delivered a fast-paced research spotlight, titled “Clicks to Crowds: How Social Media Fuels the Rise of Women’s Sports.” Under Azara’s guidance, students have explored how social media helps build audiences and awareness for emerging women’s leagues and teams.

The day’s final panel, “Driving Impact: Activation, Storytelling, and Strategy in Sport Marketing,” shifted the focus to how organizations use partnerships, narrative and creative activation to reach fans and shape brand identity. Alma Angeles-Parvaz (NASCAR); Miranda Thorpe (ESPN); and Amanda Weaver (Winston-Salem Dash) joined moderator Kyle Lubrano of Ankored.

Jenn Azara, director of tech and women’s sports content and senior planning editor for finance and Olympics coverage at Sports Business Journal, speaks during the WINS Forum. Azara moderated the forum’s “Monetizing Momentum: The New Era of Women’s Sports” panel.

Earlier in the afternoon, participants gathered for “The Charlotte Effect: How Brands, Talent, and Community Drive the Sport Business Ecosystem,” a Lunch with Leaders session that explored the region’s expanding influence on sport business and set the tone for the conversations that followed.

“The sport industry is broad, dynamic, and continually evolving, yet many students struggle to see how their skills and interests align with the opportunities available,” Dabbs said. “Hearing real stories, insights and challenges from industry professionals helps them recognize that success is rarely linear and that the sport ecosystem thrives on a diversity of backgrounds and perspectives.”

WINS students played a central role in planning and hosting the event. Dabbs noted that they helped shape the forum’s vision, coordinated logistics, and welcomed guests, making the day feel organized, personal and student-driven. She also highlighted the partnership with the Sport Management Society, which supports communication and student engagement efforts.

For Dabbs, the event’s impact comes from the collective energy in the room – students asking thoughtful questions, alumni returning to support the next generation, and industry guests sharing candid experiences.

“What I enjoy most is the energy – the intersection of curiosity, confidence, and connection,” she said. “The forum is a space where students see their future reflected back at them.”

Javik Blake ’23 named MiLB Future Star of the Year

Tommy Kopetskie — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 21:01:29 +0000

Following the Oct. 6 MiLB Awards Show, Minor League Baseball celebrated Javik Blake ’23 with the above graphic. The Elon alumnus was named the 2025 MiLB Future Star of the Year, honoring the top employee in Minor League Baseball under 25 years old. Graphic courtesy of MiLB.

loves going to the ballpark. And Minor League Baseball has taken notice.

The Biloxi Shuckers broadcaster and media relations manager has been , an honor recognizing the top Minor League Baseball employee under 25. The award was announced Oct. 6 at the MiLB Awards Show during the league’s annual Business Summit in Indianapolis.

For Blake, who earned several national accolades as an Elon undergraduate, the award caps a rapid rise through the professional baseball ranks. Since joining the Double-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers three seasons ago, he’s become one of the sport’s most promising young voices – known for his passion, professionalism and storytelling on the mic and behind the scenes.

Blake poses with his 2025 MiLB Future Star of the Year award, presented during the league’s annual Business Summit in Indianapolis. Photo courtesy of MiLB.

“It was really special to be acknowledged by my peers,” said Blake, following the award ceremony. “I was a finalist last year and didn’t win, so to get this recognition this time means a lot. All of us in Minor League Baseball put in an unbelievable number of hours during the season, so it’s rewarding to see hard work recognized.”

After graduating early following Elon’s Winter Term – just in time for the start of the 2023 season – Blake joined the Shuckers as a broadcasting and media relations assistant and quickly made an impression. When an unexpected opportunity elevated him to lead broadcaster, he didn’t hesitate. His steady voice, sharp preparation and ability to connect with fans helped make him an integral part of the organization.

In addition to calling games, Blake oversees press releases, game notes, postgame recaps and the team’s annual media guide. He coordinates player interviews and community appearances, produces graphics and features for social media, and manages the club’s website. Under his direction, the Shuckers have seen measurable growth online, including a 70% increase in engagement with player-content posts. The team also ranks among the Southern League’s top performers in impressions and video views on X – formerly Twitter – despite being its smallest market.

Blake’s “Shuckers On Deck” pregame show has been applauded for blending insider storytelling with fan giveaways and sponsor highlights, offering a behind-the-scenes look at players’ personalities and routines. He also engineers all radio broadcasts, builds commercial inventories and creative audio elements, and secures partnerships that fully fund the team’s broadcast operations. His efforts recently produced a five-year broadcast extension through 2030.

“Javik’s value to the Shuckers organization cannot be overstated,” said Hunter Reed, general manager of the Biloxi Shuckers. “We have a strong history of great people in this role, but he has elevated every aspect of operations in broadcasting, social media and media relations. He’s truly a special talent and individual.”

Off the field, Blake is dedicated to fostering the next generation of storytellers. He mentors student broadcasters and launched the Junior Journalism and Junior Broadcaster programs, which give Gulf Coast students hands-on experience with interviews, photography and live production. He also partners with Gulfport High School’s sports broadcasting class, guiding students as they build their own broadcasts.

“This award is the culmination of so many different experiences and opportunities that I’m so thankful for,” said Blake in his award release. “There are so many things that go into doing the job outside of just showing up and calling a game, and there are a lot of people to thank who have had a part in getting me to this point.”

From cold calls to career goals: Sport management majors share internship lessons

Tommy Kopetskie — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:36:02 +0000

Scott Katz ’26 (in red, with mic), who interned with NBC Universal as part of the Phillies broadcast team, told the audience at the 2025 Sport Management Internship Forum that some of his most valuable lessons came from casual networking in the press box cafeteria and that small gestures can make a lasting impression. Pictured (from left) are student panelists Sasha Barnett ’26, Jack D’Emilia ’26, Sever Gregory ’26, Katz, Shelby Keel ’26, Sam Chairman ’26 and moderator Abby Selikoff ’26.

The stories poured out quickly – of 80 cold calls a day in the Bronx, of late nights tearing down hospitality tents in Minnesota, of navigating the chaos of a rain-delayed baseball broadcast in Atlanta. For the students headlining the 2025 Sport Management Internship Forum, the details weren’t always glamorous, but they were real. And that was the point.

Barnett shares details about her digital marketing internship with the New York Islanders and how she ultimately landed the position.

Hosted on Sept. 29 in Turner Theatre and the Snow Family Grand Atrium, the annual forum brought together students to share their summer internship experiences with organizations across the sport industry. The highlight of the annual event was a student panel moderated by Sport Management Society president Abby Selikoff ’26, featuring seniors Sasha Barnett ’26 (New York Islanders), Jack D’Emilia ’26 (New York Yankees), Sever Gregory ’26 (Duke Athletics), Scott Katz ’26 (NBC Universal/Comcast), Shelby Keel ’26 (ProLinks Sports – 3M Open) and Sam Chairman ’26 (SeventySix Capital).

“Tonight is our chance to showcase what they have accomplished – real projects, real responsibilities and real growth,” said Shaina Dabbs, chair of the Department of Sport Management. “It is also an opportunity for future interns to learn about potential opportunities, ask questions, and build connections that can lead to their next role.”

For more photos of the internship forum, .

Panelists discussed the unexpected challenges, such as physical demands and extensive time on the phone, and the skills developed, like communication, decision-making and networking. The forum emphasized the importance of professionalism and maintaining connections for future career growth.

Sever Gregory ’26, who interned with Duke University’s Athletic Communications Department, shared how no two days looked the same and how the experience – from writing player bios to working March Madness – prepared her for a career in sports communications.

A few common pieces of advice rose to the surface:

Maintain relationships with fellow interns, as they may become future colleagues.
Stay in touch with internship contacts and leverage connections for future opportunities.
Apply for jobs and internships proactively, and don’t be afraid to reach out to make connections.

Students reflected on how their internships revealed the realities of the industry. “You don’t really process the fact that almost every sport job application requires you to lift 50 pounds,” said Keel, who interned with the 3M Open, a professional golf tournament in Minnesota on the PGA Tour. “I quickly realized that setting up and tearing down event spaces is just as important to tournament operations as the work behind a desk.”

For some, the grind of the work wasn’t always physical. “I was making 80 to 100 cold calls a day,” said D’Emilia, who interned with the Yankees. “It was a really tough job, but I gained confidence, improved my communication, and realized how important sales and fan engagement are to a team’s success.”

Bill Squadron (left), assistant professor of sport management, chats with Luke Silpe ’26 about his internship with strategic communications and marketing consultant Joe Favorito.

Katz, who interned with NBC Universal and the Philadelphia Phillies broadcast team, emphasized the importance of networking in everyday settings. He noted that some of his most valuable connections came from casual conversations in the press box cafeteria, where he made a point to sit with directors, producers and longtime Phillies staff to learn from their experiences. Katz also stressed that small gestures, like greeting colleagues by name, go a long way in leaving a positive impression and building lasting professional relationships.

The five panelists all emphasized that the relationships built during internships are just as valuable as the skills gained.

“These internships exist for a reason,” said Barnett, who worked in digital marketing with the New York Islanders. “They want to mentor us and help us learn. Saying ‘yes’ to opportunities and building connections with colleagues and supervisors is just as important as completing the work itself.”

The forum concluded with informational tables and networking in the Snow Family Grand Atrium, giving underclassmen a chance to connect with returning student interns and discuss their summer experiences.

2025 Student Internships

Ahmarion McLeod – Elon Athletics
Alex Goldglit – VaynerSports
Alli Gerson – Lancaster Storm
Anthony Martin – Elon Athletics – Football
Avi Hurwitz – Valley Golf Course
Ben Bronstein – Winston-Salem Dash
Bernardo Vargas-Lopez – COTA (Circuit of the Americas)

Sport management major Lily Nordheimer ’26 discusses her summer 2025 internship with Wasserman, where she worked in the Global Soccer Division at the sports marketing and talent management company.

Cameron Dunn – Bristol Blues
Carlos Levy Lanado – Kappers 507 Sportsbook
Caroline Kemp – All Star Sports Academy
Carson Pron – Elon Athletics
Cecil Munshin – HealthFitness
Colin Foil – Overtime Athletics
Daniel Jaegar – Stars Agency
Eddie Klima – Philadelphia Eagles
Emerson Baker – Burlington Sock Puppets
Evan Bennet – Duke Athletics
Ian Wolk – Washington Nationals
Isabella Marconi – USA Football
Ishmel Atkins – Elon Athletics – Tickets
Jacob Blank – ELOA
Jacob Zik – Mets Camps
Jack D’Emilia – New York Yankees
Jonah Grossman – BIP Wealth
Justin Helberg – Soccer Shots
Lev Olsberg – Greensboro Grasshoppers
Lily Nordheimer – Wasserman
Lucy McAfee – Atlantic Coastal Conference
Luke Silpe – Joe Favorito Communications
Maddy Baird – Winston-Salem Dash
Maraja Pass – Elon Athletics
Mark Kelleher – Granite TeleCommunications
Matthew Meck – Perfect Game
Natalia Macphail – Bentley College
Noah Grossman – Westchester Soccer Club
Oliver Wolk – Washington Nationals
Patrick Costin – Brockton Rox
Robby Fleisher – Front Runner Sports
Ryan Dorfman – Harris County – Houston Sports Authority
Ryan Pleasants – Elon Athletics – Development
Sam Chairman – SeventySix Capital
Sam Miller – Bourne Braves
Sam Miller – NC Fusion
Sasha Barnett – New York Islanders
Scott Katz – NBC Universal (Comcast)
Senqua Alsobrooks – Elon Athletics
Sever Gregory – Duke Athletics
Shelby Keel – Pro Links Sports – 3M Open
Will Nance – Carolina Core FC
Will Spoto – Avenue Capital Group
Will Wranek – Phoenix Club
Wyatt Zsiga – Portland Sea Dogs
Zoe Chepenik – American Cornhole League

Internship Spotlight: Scott Katz ’26 gains big-league experience as Phillies broadcast intern

Tommy Kopetskie — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:23:19 +0000

A few weeks after helping Elon Sports Vision celebrate its first College Sports Media Award – and a year removed from selling merchandise for the famously entertaining Savannah Bananas – is having another “pinch me” moment. The sport management major from Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania, has landed what he calls his dream internship: working as a Phillies broadcast intern with NBCUniversal in Philadelphia.

While working as a Phillies broadcast intern with NBCUniversal, Scott Katz ’26 has had an up-close look at what it takes to put together a broadcast in Citizens Bank Park.

For Katz, this summer has been a masterclass in sports broadcasting. Each day at Citizens Bank Park – or Wells Fargo Center when the Phillies are on the road – he shadows a different role within the Phillies broadcast team, observing how some of the best professionals in the industry operate under the pressure of live television.

“I still can’t believe I’m here,” Katz said. “Every day, I pinch myself knowing how lucky I am to call this place home for the summer.”

While Katz’s main responsibility is to learn, he’s also completing a research project as part of his internship requirement at Elon, examining how sports betting is shaping real-time storytelling.

As part of his internship, Katz has used an EVS machine, which is the industry standard for replay. “Early in my internship, I got to create two packages on the replay software that were used in the opening few segments of the broadcast before the game started,” he said.

The rising senior has regularly picked the brains of the Phillies broadcasting crew about what the future of storytelling might look like. Additionally, he conducted an in-depth interview with a Cincinnati Reds producer who broadcasts for FanDuel Sports Network. During the conversation, they discussed sports betting and sports storytelling, what it means to be on a FanDuel-branded network, and even Elly De La Cruz’s abilities as a defender. Katz hopes to gather more industry perspectives before compiling his final presentation.

Katz has used the left-field camera to practice ball following or “shagging” fly balls during batting practice. “For what it’s worth, in my opinion, it’s the hardest camera to operate during a baseball game,” Katz said.

Networking has been another summer highlight. Katz said Citizens Bank Park’s press box cafeteria – famous among reporters for its food – has become a great place to trade stories and build relationships with respected voices in the industry. He’s already shared conversations with MLB writer Howard Megdal, members of the San Diego Padres broadcast team, and the Chicago Cubs play-by-play announcer. He even makes a point to chat with the performer behind the Phillie Phanatic mascot before games – just one more way to connect with everyone involved in the production.

Katz said he always carries business cards, determined that anyone he meets leaves with one.

The internship aligns perfectly with Katz’s career ambitions. His ultimate dream? Directing the Super Bowl – the broadcast of all sports broadcasts. “Only about 10 or 12 people have ever done that,” Katz said. “But I’m learning so much about storytelling and handling chaos in the moment that I really believe nothing can stop me.”

This photo is one of Katz’s favorites. Taken this summer, it shows him with Michael Barkann – one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable sports media personalities and a longtime favorite of Katz’s father.

Looking back on his own internship search, Katz offers simple advice: “Apply to everything you can, greet people by name, and smile.”

Katz landed his Phillies internship through SmartRecruiters.com, beating out hundreds of other applicants, and he explained that perseverance makes all the difference. “One person taking a chance on you can change everything,” he said.

‘This win means the world’: Elon Sports Vision captures first College Sports Media Award

Tommy Kopetskie — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:15:44 +0000

Patrick Cunningham (center), director of live broadcast production, celebrates with members of the Elon Sports Vision staff at the SVG College Sports Media Awards ceremony. Pictured (front, from left) are Annie Thyfault ’26, Cunningham, Ella Smith ’26, (back, from left) Anthony Bamford ’25, Philip Doherty ’26, Scott Katz ’26, John Spitznagel III ’23 and Ben Ohlmeyer ’25.

Elon Sports Vision’s first College Sports Media Award wasn’t a matter of luck – it was preparation meeting the perfect play.

That’s exactly what happened during Elon’s football matchup last fall against the University of New Hampshire, when a potential fumble turned into a dramatic replay review, a moment that showcased the student crew’s storytelling and technical skills. The game – one of more than 130 broadcasts produced by Elon Sports Vision during the 2024–25 academic year – earned the top honor in the Outstanding Live Game Production – Collegiate Student Championship category at the .

Presented by the Sports Video Group (SVG) in association with the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), the national awards ceremony took place May 28 in Atlanta.

“Winning an SVG award is extremely difficult,” said Ben Ohlmeyer ’25, who directed the broadcast. “A successful submission requires two things: an exciting moment and excellent coverage. Since you never know when that exciting moment will come, we as a crew must always be on our A game to capture that moment whenever it appears.”

Ohlmeyer said his Elon Sports Vision crew encountered an ideal broadcast scenario: a potential fumble followed by a thrilling “Big Man Return.” When the play was sent to review, with the quarterback’s arm motion in question, the crew capitalized on the moment to demonstrate their replay sequencing abilities. Coordinating closely, the camera team, replay operators, and technical director pulled off a seamless close-up of the quarterback’s arm – what Ohlmeyer called one of the broadcast’s strongest sequences.

While the sequence was technically impressive, Patrick Cunningham, director of live broadcast production, praised the students for also spotlighting Jake Louro – the hero of the play – and capturing his raw excitement.

“It was a textbook example of how our crew elevates a live moment into something truly memorable,” he said.

Philip Doherty ’26, who served as the broadcast’s technical director, noted the excellence of the moment was all the more impressive considering the broadcast team was short-staffed due to the university’s fall break.

This year’s victory follows several years of SVG nominations and close calls. ESV also earned a finalist spot this year in the Outstanding Live Non-Game Production – Collegiate Student Championship category.

“This win means the world to our entire ESV team,” Ohlmeyer said. “For the last four years, we’ve submitted our best work to SVG and have been finalists. Each year we lost it motivated everyone to give their best and improve in any way possible. We targeted this award from day one in August and to finally bring it home makes every early morning and late night worth it.”

Now in its 17th year, the SVG College Sports Media Awards honor excellence in sports broadcasting and creative content at the collegiate level. Elon’s victory marks a major milestone for the university, and Cunningham believes it firmly places the program in the national conversation.

“We’re the newer faces in the industry when it comes to high-level collegiate broadcasts, and a win like this shows that we’re not just keeping up – we’re leading in some areas,” he said. “It validates the long hours, the creativity, and the commitment our students and staff pour into every game. For a program that’s still growing and defining its identity, this award is proof that we belong.”

Ohlmeyer praised the student team’s dedication, noting that producing over 130 live broadcasts required more than good planning. It took a group willing to sacrifice evenings and weekends to be part of something bigger than themselves.

Some days saw the crew juggling up to three simultaneous productions – a feat made possible by strong support from Elon Athletics, the School of Communications, and the university’s IT staff. Central to the program’s success was the culture fostered by Cunningham and Annika Cronin, ESV’s coordinating producer, who cultivated an environment rooted in mutual respect, camaraderie, passion and work ethic.

Reflecting on his time with ESV, Ohlmeyer said, “Over the last four years, I’ve had the privilege of working with the most dedicated and driven students on campus. I’ve watched students go from beginners to leaders who are always willing to take the new members under their wing. Thanks to their leadership, our new members are constantly improving, learning and preparing for the next big moment.”

To see the full list of winners, visit .

Student Broadcasting Crew – Elon vs. UNH Football Game

Ben Ohlmeyer – Director
Ella Smith – Graphics
Nate Romano – Replay 1
Anthony Eppolito – Replay 2
Hyemin Im – Shading
Philip Doherty – Technical Director
Joe Marinello – Utility
Kade Maiden – Utility
Grace Mills – Audio
Cristina Madaio – Bug Operator
Richard Kleckner – Cam 1
Anthony Bamford – Cam 2
Scott Katz – Cam 3
Annie Thyfault – Cam 4
Harry Haber – Cam 5
Jack Gill – Cam 5

Elon Sports Vision | Today at Elon | �������޹�����Ʒ