Sports MBA Spends the Day in LA

The SDSU Sports MBA cohort took an exciting trip to Los Angeles, gaining firsthand exposure to the inner workings of the sports and agency industries. The day was packed with experiences, beginning with a visit to The Story House, a collective of sponsorship and experiential marketing agencies. At The Story House, students had the opportunity to have Brand Management class in The Story House’s state-of-the-art facility. The class session was led by Matt Furrie (SMBA ‘10), who focused the session on the NIL space and how it can guide a brand’s strategy in the sports and entertainment landscape. The students were also introduced to the final project, where the goal is to connect women’s sports to a brand through NIL. In addition, the cohort heard from Mike Thompson, President of The Story House, who provided insights into the evolving landscape of agencies and related industries. He emphasized the importance of staying ahead by developing new skills, such as learning AI, to stand out in an increasingly competitive field.

Following the agency visit, the cohort headed to SoFi Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Chargers and soon to be home of the World Cup, Olympics, and Superbowl. The tour was led by Matt Gonzalez, Guest Experience Manager, who provided a deep dive into the stadium’s operations, premium spaces, and overall infrastructure. Beyond showing the students the impressive venue, Matt shared his personal journey in the sports industry, offering career advice that resonated with the cohort. The students also gained a greater understanding of Hollywood Park Properties, learning about the various businesses and developments that contribute to the broader entertainment district. From brand management insights to stadium operations and career guidance, the trip was a great experience for the SDSU Sports MBA cohort.