Katie Frey

Laura Rose

Jenny Schaafsma

Springfield, Ohio — Three Wittenberg University scholar athletes with an interest in pursuing professional careers in coaching or athletics administration got a closer look at their chosen fields recently. They were among 303 NCAA scholar athletes selected from more than 1,000 applicants to attend a Career in Sports Forum in Indianapolis, Ind., June 12-16.

Scholar athletes at the forum represented all divisions of the NCAA. Sport-specific coaching tracks were available for those interested in basketball, cross country, track and field, field hockey, football, golf, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, tennis or volleyball. Participants were selected by athletics administrators at their respective schools who view them as leaders on their campus.

Lacrosse defender Katie Frey, class of 2012 from Chagrin Falls, Ohio, softball outfielder Laura Rose, class of 2014 from Riverside, Ohio, and lacrosse and field hockey goalkeeper Jenny Schaafsma, class of 2012 from Grand Rapids, Mich, represented Wittenberg at the forum. Cross country/track and field runner Jordan Stafford, class of 2012 from Springfield, Ohio, and soccer midfielder Dan Broidy, class of 2012 from Columbus, Ohio, were also selected to attend the conference, but both were unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts.

Participants were asked to do some homework prior to the forum by asking friends, co-workers or bosses to evaluate their key values, strengths, weaknesses and relationships. That helped open the door to insightful conversations about how to stand out in the marketplace and network with others in the industry.

"At the forum I met some of the most engaging student athletes participating in all levels of athletics from D1 to D3," Frey said. "There were also several speakers who told their story, which was all helpful in preparing all of us for our future journey.

"We must not be afraid to take on the challenge, and to put ourselves out there. It's through networking and creating relationships that will develop us into our own. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I will remember it for the rest of my life."

Rose said she didn't know what to expect going into the forum, but she said the "overwhelming amount of information packed into three days" will give her a great head start on the job search process. She even has some ideas about things to do to prepare for the search while still an undergraduate.

"I would say the main thing that I learned was that networking and who you know is THE most important thing to get the job you want," Rose said. "Putting your foot in the door by just volunteering at a sporting event can catch the eye of someone who could possibly get you the job of your dreams or at least put you in the right direction.

"I just feel so fortunate that I got this opportunity so young because I know now what I need to do to put my name out there and I know the steps to become successful in the future. I definitely found out that I do want to pursue a career in sports and be a coach because of this forum."

Schaafsma said she gained an appreciation for the importance of networking as well.

"I found that the forum was beneficial in teaching us the specifics and importance of networking," Schaafsma said. "It was also helpful in emphasizing ‘the journey' our career paths may take. Many coaches and administrators spoke of their career processes and various positions they held within athletics that built on one another to lead them to their current career.

"Overall, this experience helped in exploring my career options. I highly recommend this forum to anyone who is interested in a career in athletics."

Written By: Ryan Maurer
Photos By: Erin Pence

045-11