SMBA at SheBelieves Cup
The SDSU Sports MBA cohort had the incredible opportunity to volunteer with the U.S. Soccer Federation at Snapdragon Stadium for the SheBelieves Cup. As one of the premier events in women’s soccer, this was more than just an exciting game day, it was a chance for our students to immerse themselves in the world of professional sports and contribute to an event that celebrates the empowerment of women in sports. The cohort worked in a variety of areas including Media Operations, Fan Engagement, Event Operations, and Advancement. This experience gave our students the unique opportunity to gain practical knowledge and skills while supporting an event that is helping to shape the future of women’s sports, both on and off the field.
The SheBelieves Cup is much more than just a competition. It is a celebration of women's talent, perseverance, and potential, both in sports and in life. The tournament’s message of equality, representation, and opportunity inspires the next generation of athletes, fans, and advocates to believe in their limitless possibilities. Held in San Diego, a city quickly becoming a hub for professional women’s sports, the SheBelieves Cup was a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting women in the athletic world. It was an inspiring moment for everyone involved, especially those of us who had the chance to witness the event up close.
For our students, the opportunity to volunteer at the SheBelieves Cup wasn’t just about gaining professional experience, it was about supporting a movement that reflects their values and passions.
“Volunteering for the SheBelieves Cup at Snapdragon Stadium was an incredible opportunity to go behind the scenes of game day operations. It was so much more than just a game—it was about supporting women's soccer, building community, and gaining invaluable hands-on experience. Being part of the action behind the scenes was exciting, and knowing I played a role in creating an unforgettable experience for both players and fans made it all the more rewarding.” – Macey Kadifa (SMBA 25’)
“The SheBelieves Cup was an incredible experience where I got the chance to join together learning about media at a large professional event with my love for soccer. I had the chance to stand on the field during the games and stand in during the press conferences after each game, and it was amazing getting to experience different perspectives on professional soccer.” – Ainsley Abraham (SMBA 25’)
The SheBelieves Cup was more than just an event, it was a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting women in sports, and our SDSU Sports MBA cohort was privileged to be a part of it. As we continue to fight for equality and opportunity in athletics, we look forward to the lasting impact that events like this have on shaping the future of women’s sports. A special thank you to the U.S. Soccer Federation for providing SDSU’s Sports MBA cohort with the opportunity to be part of this event. The experience was invaluable, offering our students real-world exposure to the inner workings of a major sports event and allowing them to contribute to something much larger than themselves.
