A group of Chowan University’s sport science majors and professors made a strong showing at the North Carolina Alliance for Athletics, Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Dance and Sport Management (NCAAHPERED-SM) in Winston-Salem on October 23-25. Professor Jim Hammond gave two presentations, and six students participated in student competitions: Carneal Hall, Justin Robinson, Deja King, Dinah Gibbs, Quintasia Mattison, and Megan Reid participated in the Sport Management Case Study Competition. Senior Exercise Science major Justin Robinson placed third in the Ignite Presentation competition. Senior Deja King competed in the Video Resume Competition and was runner-up as the North Carolina Sport Management Association Student Major of the Year. 

For this year’s case study, the directors at the NCAAHPERED-SM asked students to research the Charlotte Hornets and how to convert new movers into fans and long-time ticket holders. The students were given one week to prepare their presentation. They research demographic statistics as well as what new movers are looking for in Charlotte. They even discussed how the NBA team could improve their current methods to captivate more people who are new to the Charlotte area. 

The NCAAHPERED-SM conference prepares sports science college students to become creative and prepared sports managers and marketers. The conference enables participants to present their research and ideas to judges affiliated with the company in the case study. This year, a member of the Charlotte Hornets’s sports executive staff judged the NCAAHPERED-SM competition as if the students were employees in a company pitch meeting. Preparing and participating in the conference exercises and showcases students’ research and presentation skills as well as their ability to construct creative, innovative solutions. A few exceptionally impressive participants may be offered an internship or job opportunity. The NCAAHPERED-SM conference creates a platform for sports science students to engage in sports marketing research, give presentations to company executives, and make connections that will benefit them after graduation. 

Please join Chowan University in congratulating the students and faculty who participated in the 2019 NCAAHPERED-SM conference.