Fox Cities News

Lawrence University has introduced a new sport management course aimed at students interested in the business side of sports. Lauren Moravchik, a fifth-year women’s hockey player, is among those benefiting from this addition as she explores career options that combine her passion for sports with business interests.

“I can’t think of a better way to do that than by combining my passion for sports with my interest in business,” said Moravchik, who is majoring in German, economics, and business and entrepreneurship.

The sport management course was launched during the Fall Term as part of the evolving business and entrepreneurship major introduced in Fall 2023. The course covers various aspects of college and professional sports such as leadership, facility management, sales, analytics, marketing, and communications. It is taught by Karen Bussone, professor of practice in entrepreneurship. The inaugural class attracted 35 students, including 32 student-athletes.

Bussone arranged for eight guest speakers to engage with the class either in person or virtually. Notable speakers included Gabrielle Valdez Dow from the Green Bay Packers and Kalle Larsson ’07 from the Edmonton Oilers.

“The sport industry is very, very competitive and tough to get into,” Bussone stated. “I am very passionate about providing opportunities for my students to network with sport industry professionals.”

Dow advised students on building connections early by researching potential employers and internship opportunities thoroughly.

“Regardless of what you are doing in life...go do your homework,” Dow emphasized. “Get online and find out who they are.”

Larsson encouraged students to embrace their passion for sports while being prepared to work hard.

“A lot of people say they want to do something...I got here with absolute dedication,” Larsson shared.

Moravchik plans to use her education towards potential career paths which may include returning to Anderson Ranch Arts Center or exploring opportunities with a Formula 1 racing team in Germany.

“This course is helping me determine if a career in sport management is the right path for me,” she said.

Her teammate Taylor Halverson also sees value in the course as she prepares for future roles within college athletic departments focusing on sports marketing and social media engagement.

“If this course would have been around when I was at Lawrence...I would have been the first person to sign up,” Larsson noted about its appeal among current students.