Tuesday, January 9, 2018

PORTLAND, Ore. – University and high school students considering a future career in the sports industry will have an opportunity to engage those currently working in the profession at the GNAC’s “Working in Sports Seminar” on Saturday, March 3 at the Alaska Airlines Center in Anchorage.

The afternoon event is scheduled for 1-4 p.m. Anticipated panelist categories include coaching, administration, marketing, media relations, NCAA compliance, sports medicine, ticket sales, fund-raising/development and event operations. Attendees will have an opportunity to interact with — and seek career advice from — a slate of experienced sports professionals in both classroom and round-table formats.

Held in 2014, 2016 and 2017 under the “Women in Sports” banner, this year’s event will be open to males and females who are interested in exploring sports as a career path. In the previous three editions, held in Seattle or Portland, the event has attracted more than 300 attendees and featured more than 60 panelists.

“Feedback from previous participants tells us this is an extremely worthwhile event, and we are extremely pleased to be able to bring this seminar to the great state of Alaska,” said GNAC commissioner Dave Haglund. “We’re excited about the diverse group of panelists who will be showcased at the seminar. Our format, which is arranged to include close interaction with the panelists, is designed to enhance the seminar value for each and every participant. Regardless of one’s career aspirations, there is much to be learned from the advice shared by those who have taken similar paths.”

Jill Willson, a former college basketball coach and athletic director who currently does consulting work for the NCAA, will serve as the keynote speaker.

Interested attendees must register at www.gnactickets.com.

Space is limited to the first 100 registrants. Early-bird registration is $15 and closes Feb. 24. Late registration is $18 and closes March 1. The registration fee includes a ticket to that evening’s GNAC Basketball Championships men’s and women’s title games, also at the Alaska Airlines Center. The men’s championship game tips at 5:15 p.m., the women’s title game tips at 7:30 p.m.