With the help of the associate professor of sports management Robert Zullo, the dedicated group of students hope to host their own events this spring as they raise money for the cause.
Last semester, the group sponsored a tailgate party with a beanbag toss (cornhole), volleyball and Darren Achtzehn’s catered food. The proceeds from the event went to United Way. The schedule this semester includes many similar events, including inner tube water polo, ultimate Frisbee and what they’re hoping to be a student hit—Quidditch.
The benefits of such events help students relieve stress, meet new people and provide recreation. “We don’t care who wins or loses; it’s not the Super Bowl. It’s about having a good time. You might see a bio major, or a psych, theatre or music major, or even faculty. It’s just a great outlet,” said Zullo.
As the sports management students prepare and plan for events, they learn strategic marketing, advertising and expense skills that help to build resumes. The events and preparation puts them in the spotlight to work past their fears of speaking and control. It’s a good form of peer pressure.
“It’s a fun field to get into,” said Zullo, expressing how these skills carry over into the professional world. “You gain experience working with and servicing people and smiling.” They also have the opportunity to give back to the community through United Way.
“We haven’t even scratched our full potential yet,” said Zullo. “We’re not people who watch ‘Sports Center’ all day and plan our fantasy teams; we’re benefiting the community and students alike as our management kids learn with hands-on experience.”
While the sports management program might only be a year and a half old, SHU embraced their philosophies and supports their efforts to get students involved. For more information, check out their Facebook page under “SHU Campus Recreation.” You can also find their schedule of events there, although they are subject to change.
