ILRSBS Home Run Derby to Benefit the SEED Project

The ILR Sports Business Society will be hosting a Charity Wiffle Ball Tournament that will take place on Monday, April 28st from 3:30-6:00pm in the Arts Quad. Proceeds from the event will benefit SEEDS (Sports for Economic and Educational Development in Senegal). Please contact Alex Smith at aws77@cornell.edu to register. More information is also available on Facebook.

The event will run from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Winners in both the male and female division will receive $20 gift certificates to Collegetown Bagels. Groups can reserve time slots if desired to ensure members can bat consecutively.

The ILR Sports Business Society has chosen the SEED Project to be the organization to benefit from the club's Charity Wiffle Ball Tournament because it is an extremely worthwhile and deserving beneficiary of ILRSBS's social impact activities. This is the second consecutive year SBS has worked to raise money on behalf of SEEDS.  Since its founding in 1998, the SEED Project has worked to provide educational opportunities through the use of sports. The SEED Project is the vision of founder Amadou Gallo Fall, who used basketball to gain access to a college education. Today, the foundation describes its mission as:

The SEED Project develops responsible, thoughtful, and educated leaders capable of contributing to the positive transformation of their communities, country and continent.

With this, the organization works to accomplish these goals largely through the operation of SEEDS Academy, a college-preparatory boarding school in Thies, Senegal. The academy provides free tuition, room, board, and meal plans to some 30 student-athletes. SEEDS Academy further provides Senegalese boys with a year-round, rigorous academic, athletic and leadership development curriculum. More than 20 alumni have gone on to academic and athletic pursuits beyond the academy. Because of the foundation's success and visibility SEEDS was featured in ESPN Films' "Elevate" (trailer below).

More information is available on the SEEDS website and on their Facebook page. The organization can be contacted at info@seedproject.com. 

ISS '13 Preview: Top 10 Guide

The 8th Annual Ivy Sports Symposium will take place at Harvard Law School on Friday, November 22, 2013.  The Cornell Sports Business Society will be providing regular coverage before, during, and after the event. 

There's many reasons to look forward to this year's Ivy Sports Symposium.  As a preview, I decided to pick out the ten things I was most excited for heading into the event.

10. The Cornell Connection

Cornell University will have the highest number of both alumni panelists and student attendees.  ISS '13 will certainly have a Cornell flavor to it, and interacting with fellow members of the Big Red community will be rewarding in itself.  But more than anything, the overwhelming turnout reflects Cornell's growing presence in the sports industry

9. CEN Boston: The Business of Sports

Okay, this Thursday night event may be Cornell only, but the imminent setting is an awesome opportunity.  We'll get to hear several of the panelists first, and get a jump start on networking with the rest of the Big Red community.  It's incredible experience presented by the Cornell Sports Business Society in partnership with the Cornell Entrepreneur Network.

8. 10 Next Class of 2013

These ten sports business rising stars have some of the most relevant advice students will hear all day.  In addition to the awards ceremony, they'll be in panels all day long.  Just because they may not be a huge name (yet), make some time to hear them talk.  Make sure you introduce yourself, because these powerhouses are on the way up.

7. "In-Stadium Renovations"

This Round 1 panel looks like a hidden gem. The 10:35am time slot puts it up against heavyweight panels such as "Navigating a CBA" and "College Athletics", but improving the stadium experience is perhaps one of the biggest challenges facing sports today.  And who better to hear speak on the topic than esteemed panelists such as Cornell's own John Sergi, Chief Design Officer of Centerplate.

6. "Prepared for the Worst: Crisis Management"

This Round 2 Panel looks to a bit more hard-hitting than most Symposium topics. Alumni Thomas Grilk and Matthew Hiltzik will undoubtedly have some experience and knowledge to share on what can be sensitive issues.  Other panels to consider at 11:55am include "Sports Marketing Successs" and "Sports and Social Impact", which contains Cornell's Todd Jacobson.

5. Lunch

Lunch is always great, and if figures to be especially delicious after a hard day of listening to panels.  It's also good networking time, but make sure you don't miss out some great discussions.  "Entrepreneurship and  Innovation" and "Fantasy & Gaming" will feature Alumni Bo Moon and Andrew Daines respectively, while the Business of Amateurism promises to be insightful well.

4. "The Future of Sports Television"

As if this Round 3 topic isn't interesting enough, Tracy Dolgin headlines a panel of industry leaders. The 2:05pm time slot is as stacked as any, with Charles Baker moderating "Going Global: International Expansion", and Barry Kahn participating in " Ticketing". Three important topics, three impressive alumni.

3. "Athlete Marketing and Representation" 

With Cornellians Jennifer Keene and Lowell Taub potentially rounding out a Symposium favorite, the day just gets better and better. Round 4 panels "Digital Media" and "Dealmakers/Sports Finance" also figure to be popular, so some of us will have a difficult time deciding come 3:25pm.

2.  Networking

Networking doesn't have to mean standing in a long line to talk to a high profile panelists (although this can be awesome too!).   Talking to other students, young professionals, and industry leaders who you have real interests in can be incredibly valuable.  Get to know the rest of the Cornell contingent as well!

1. Learning About Sports

Some times it can get lost in the shuffle, but every attendee has something to learn at the Symposium.  Get exposed to an unfamiliar topic, or learn best practices for an area your interested in. By really listening and learning, you'll actually improve your networking abilities as well.

Event Preview: The Business of Sports

In partnership with the Cornell Entrepreneur Network, the Cornell Sports Business is pleased to present "The Business of Sports."  The event will take place on Thursday, November 21 at the  Nine Zero Hotel, in Boston, MA.  For more information, visit http://cen.cornell.edu/events/cen-boston-business-sport. 

Every fall, the Ivy Sports Sports Symposium offers premier learning and networking opportunites to members of the Cornell Sports Business Society. Now through "The Business of Sports", those opprotunites will be extended beyond the symposium's traditional schedule.  For Cornell's alumni speakers, young professionals, and current students, the experience tip off early with this exclusive panel and networking event.



The 8th Annual Ivy Sports Symposium will reflect Cornell's growing presence in the sports industry.  The school will boast the greatest number of both alumni panelists and student attendees at the event, hosted at Harvard Law School.  The combination of the "The Business of Sports" Panel" and the Symposium promise to make this a memorable experience for the Cornell sports business community.

"The Business of Sports" event will begin Thursday at 6:00 pm, with the panel scheduled to begin at 6:45.  Listeners will be treated to a sneak preview of Friday's main event, as the panel will be include eight Symposium speakers.  The list below contains links and information for each member of the panel:

Moderator:
 
Charles Baker JD ‘85, Partner, Global Sports Practice, DLA Piper
 
Panelists:
 
Andrew Daines '10, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, PrePlay Sports
Tom Grilk ‘69, Executive Director, Boston Athletic Association
Matthew Hiltzik '94, President & CEO, Hiltzik Strategies
Barry Kahn ‘03, Chief Executive Officer, Qcue
Jennifer Keene '95, Senior Director, Personality and Property Marketing, Octagon
Bo Moon '99, Co-founder, EVP of Business/Products, Bloomberg Sports
Lowell Taub '96, Head of Global Sports Endorsements, CAA Sports

In partnership with the Cornell Entrepreneur Network, the Cornell Sports Business is pleased to present "The Business of Sports."  The event will take place on Thursday, November 21 at the  Nine Zero Hotel, in Boston, MA.  For more information, visit http://cen.cornell.edu/events/cen-boston-business-sport. 

Event Preview: Tracy Dolgin ('81)

 

Join the Cornell Sports Business Society in Ives 105 on Thursday, October 24 at 4:45, as we host alumnus Tracy Dolgin (’81). The event, co-hosted along with the Big Red Sports Network,  will take the format of  an “Ask Me Anything,” Q&A with the audience.

Since 2004, Tracy Dolgin has been the President & CEO of YES Network, which is the #1 regional sports network in the country, and the exclusive television home of the 27-time World Champion New York Yankees and the Brooklyn Nets.

Dolgin received his bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University in 1981 and an MBA from Stanford University in 1983.

Dolgin began his career at General Foods in product management, before becoming the Senior Vice President of Marketing at HBO Video from 1986 to 1992. After spending time with FOX Broadcasting Company and FOX/Liberty Cable, Dolgin served as President of FOX Sports Net from 2000-2003. Prior to becoming President and CEO of YES in 2004, Dolgin was also Managing Director and Co-Head of Houlihan Lokey’s Media, Sports and Entertainment practice.

Under Dolgin, YES became the first television network to produce a MLB game in 3D, the first television network to offer its MLB telecasts streamed live to its in-market customers, and the first television network to produce interactive MLB telecasts. Throughout his career, Dolgin has earned many industry accolades, including several Emmys, Clios and Worldwide Cannes Awards. In 2009 he was named one of Sports Business Journal magazine’s “50 Most Influential People in Sports Business.”

The network Dolgin is responsible for, YES, has won 67 New York Emmy Awards, as well. YES has been the most-watched and popular regional sports network in the country the past nine years, with its Yankees broadcasts consistently being some of the most viewed programming nationwide. Today, the network boasts more than 250 advertisers. Not only does YES have the most in-market subscribers than any other regional sports network in the country, but it has the most subscribers outside its territory than any other regional sports network.

As always we thank alumni like Tracy for generously sharing their time and knowledge with SBS. 

We hope you can join us for this Q&A for what is sure to be a high-end discussion with a true sports business icon.  Check out the event on Facebook for more information.

Event Preview: Three Questions with Michael Huyghue

 

Join the Cornell Sports Business Society in Ives 105 on Friday (10/4) at 4:30, where former UFL Commissioner, Michael Huyghue '84, will be conducting a workshop on "Negotiations in the Professional Sports Arena." 

Michael Huyghue is the President of Michael Huyghue & Associates, where he consults professional sports teams, agents, and other sports-related properties. Michael Huyghue received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and his law degree from the University of Michigan.

After graduation from law school, Huyghue began his career as a legal intern for the NFL's Players Association and was later an attorney with the NFL's Management Council in 1987, handling arbitration hearings. At the age of 29, he became the youngest general manager in professional football when he joined the NFL's World League in 1989. Huyghue joined the Detroit Lions as vice president and general counsel, before becoming senior vice president of football operations for the Jacksonville Jaguars in the team's inaugural NFL season. During Huyghue's tenure with the Jaguars, the team became the "winningest" franchise in expansion history, achieving two AFC Central Division Championships and an unprecedented two AFC Championship appearances.

Huyghue has served on many of the NFL Commissioner's prominent committees, including the NFL Management Council, the Executive Working Group Committee, the NFL College Advisory Committee, the NFL Europe League, and as a Trustee of the NFL Players Insurance Trust. Prior to becoming commissioner of the United Football League in 2006, Huyghue was CEO and founder of Axcess Sports & Entertainment, where he represented a number of NFL, NBA and PGA tour players.

Huyghue was kind enough to participate in a 3Q Interview to help preview the event.  Here's what he had to say:

(1) The Negotiations Workshop will be the first of its kind for the Cornell Sports Business Society; why did you choose to do this and what value do you hope students can gain from this session?

I think the value of teaching "real life" situations is a good supplement to the traditional class room experience. We practitioners in the real world can offer a unique perspective to academic study. I wanted students to come away with a real skill and not necessarily just practical knowledge.

(2) In your opinion, what is the greatest myth or misunderstanding about business negotiations?

I think the biggest myth is a one size fits all approach. Every negotiation is different. You can't anticipate every situation and you can't necessarily take the same cookie cutter approach to each negotiation. Every situation is unique and you might have to approach each situation from a different vantage point.

(3) During your extensive history within the sports industry, which business negotiation do you consider to be a turning point in your career?

I think the best lesson, if you will, that I learned during my business career is that you really only gain the greatest degree of leverage in a negotiation when you are prepared to walk. Unless and until you feel you can walk away from the deal you are ultimately at the risk of conceding more than you should.

*BONUS* What do you miss most about your days at Cornell?

There is an energy around the Cornell environment that I call the Cornell experience. It is unique to each student but similar in the sense that it allows you to expand your horizons by asking questions like "what if and why not". You don't get to explore those thoughts as much in business world. That is a precious freedom I miss.

Join the Cornell Sports Business Society in Ives 105 on Friday (10/4) at 4:30, where former UFL Commissioner, Michael Huyghue '84, will be conducting a workshop on "Negotiations in the Professional Sports Arena." Check out the event on Facebook more information.

Event Preview: Three Questions With Brian Friedman ('95)

On Friday, September 27, the Cornell Sports Business Society is pleased to be hosting Brian Friedman ('95).  Friedman is currently in his fourth year as the Chief Financial Officer for the New York Jets.

Friedman is responsible for all financial planning and daily accounting operations for the team, financial oversight of the team's interest in MetLife Stadium and all internal and external reporting to the NFL and various other agencies. Additionally, he oversees information technology and practice facility operations.

Prior to joining the Jets, Friedman was the chief financial officer of Blissworld, LLC, the owner and operation of Bliss spas and seller of a full line of retail skin care products. At Bliss, he was responsible for all financial operations.

Before joining Bliss, he was the senior director of finance for the Columbia House Company and prior to that held several finance roles of increasing responsibility at Polo Ralph Lauren. Friedman began his career at Price Waterhouse and is a certified public accountant.

Friedman graduated from CALS, majoring in AEM, and has an MBA from Columbia University.

 In preparation for our event with Brian, we conducted a 3Q interview that would help preview the content that will be covered on Tuesday.


(1) What do you find to be the most fulfilling part of your job in your fourth season as the Jets' Chief Financial Officer?

In a word – Sunday. The most fulfilling part of my job is being part of an organization that millions of people are so passionate about. Seeing all the work show up on Sunday’s is a great feeling. Whether it is fan experience at the game or advertisements during the post-game show, being in a role that touches every part of the business, when that business is football, is just fantastic.

(2) What is it like to be involved with the planning of the first ever cold weather Super Bowl?

It is a tremendous experience to see how an event of this magnitude takes shape. The number of people involved with planning and executing a Super Bowl is unbelievable. The necessity to imagine every unimaginable scenario and plan for it is something to witness. When indoors your biggest issue is to make sure the lights stay on, with our stadium the list of potential issues is endless.  

(3) Friday will be your first-ever event with the Cornell Sports Business Society. What are some of your objectives in engaging Cornell students who may be interested in careers in sports and/or finance?

My goal is simple – to try and leverage my experience to help current students achieve their career goals. I am very fortunate that I get to work in a job that I have a passion for in an industry that I have always been interested in. My experiences at Cornell had a huge impact on my life and gave me a foundation to achieve many things throughout my career.

BONUS:  What do you miss most about your days at Cornell?

I miss the freedom, the camaraderie, spending every day with lifelong friends who are now spread all across the country. During my summer job before my senior year, my boss told me to enjoy Cornell because life is like one giant final exam. Truer words were never said – enjoy the time here.

Brian will be speaking to the Cornell Sports Business Society in person on Friday, September 27th. Please join us in Ives 105 at 4:30. For more information, check out the event on Facebook.

 We hope you can make it!

Event Preview: Three Questions with Hussain Naqi ('97)

On Tuesday, September 17^th, the Cornell Sports Business Society will be Skype chatting with Hussain Naqi ’97. Naqi is the Senior Vice President of Fan Engagement for the Jacksonville Jaguars.

In his role, Naqi is responsible for the Jaguars’ marketing and branding efforts, overseeing the Jaguars’ game day experience, and managing the Jaguars’ fan development and marketing efforts in the UK.

Prior to joining Jacksonville in 2012, Naqi served as Vice President of Business Planning and General Counsel at MetLife Stadium. Naqi has worked in sports since 1997; his resume includes stints with the National Football League, NCAA, Major League Baseball, and the New York Mets.

In preparation for our event with Hussain, we conducted a 3Q interview that would help preview the content that will be covered on Tuesday.

Q1: As SVP of Fan Engagement, you have one of the more unique titles in sports. What would you consider to be your favorite part about your role, and what poses as the biggest challenge for you?

“The thing I love most about my job is that I’m a huge sports fan. My job gives me the opportunity to provide experiences that I, myself, would want to consume as a fan. I love that I can affect change that reaches fans. Whether that’s having Wi-Fi capability, checking fantasy scores, or even making sure our people are friendly to fans when they enter the building, it is my job to give Jaguars fans a product and experience that brings them to our stadium.

Obviously, it goes both ways. We have 3,000 workers on game day –  ticket takers, ushers, cleaning staff – and making sure that each and every one of them to take pride and ownership in what they do is tough. It’s on us to guide all of those behaviors. But when they’re only working for us 40 hours per year, it can be a challenge to get complete buy-in.”


Q2: While the on-field product has room to grow (perhaps putting it lightly?) your front office has done a commendable job of engaging fans through in-stadium innovation. Besides the widely discussed Fantasy Football Lounge, what are some other initiatives being implemented by the Jaguars to enhance the experience at EverBank Field and drive attendance?

“It’s a struggle out there for all teams, not only us. We’re all competing with Sunday Ticket, Red Zone Channel, affordable flat screen TVs, and the ability to walk up to your fridge and grab a beer without waiting in line to pay $8.

It’s critical for us to address the reasons why people may not go to games.

Obviously we can talk about the fantasy football lounge, but this organization really prides itself in being innovative in all areas of the fan experience. We’re implementing a lean operation for all concessions that--in the three games we’ve used it--has cut our concession line waiting time by 25%. That may not sound like much, but to not stand in long lines, to get fresh food, and to use a clean bathroom is essential to the experience.

We have one of the oldest NFL stadiums, and we need to identify every possible reason that a fan may not come to our stadium. Given our recent on-field performance and Jacksonville’s climate, it is essential that we stay ahead of the curve to address these issues. Whether it’s the fantasy football lounge, shorter lines at concession, or deploying 120 feet of air-conditioned benches for fans to use, the imperative is for our group to be innovative and ahead of the curve everyday.”


Q3: This will be your first (of what we hope is many) speaker event with the Sports Business Society. What new perspective do you hope students will learn after our Skype session?

1. I was in your shoes not that long ago, interested in a career in sports and wondering how to get in. I am happy to share the story of my career path and show you how to get where you want to go.


2. I hope to broaden the focus of what you think it means to be ‘working in sports.’ There’s more to it than simply working for a franchise.


3. I want to show the logic behind what the Jaguars are doing. We have an incredibly bright ownership group, and I hope I can provide context for you to see how successful our team is despite what the record may indicate.

BONUS: What do you miss most about your days at Cornell?

That one’s the easiest question yet: Cornell Hockey. No question.
(follow Hussain on Twitter @CornellHkyFan)

The passion, and the tradition born out of that passion, is the reason I love college sports. There’s nothing like hearing the crowd erupt at Lynah Rink when we scored a goal. I had so many nights at Lynah; I miss it dearly.

Oh, and deep dish pizza from The Nines is dangerously good.


Remember, Hussain will be Skype chatting with the Cornell Sports Business Society Tuesday, September 17^th. Please join us in Ives 105 at 4:30. For more information, check out the event on Facebook.

We hope you can make it!