"Don't measure yourself by what you have accomplished, but by what you should accomplish with your ability."

 

- John Wooden

 

Students

 

Brady Adelhart

I grew up in Oregon City, OR. My childhood and high school years consisted of going from one sports practice to another, balancing conflicting team schedules and playing in a tournament of some sort most weekends of every summer. After high school, I played two years of softball at Clackamas Community College in Oregon before transferring to the University of Puget Sound, where I continued to play softball. I graduated from UPS with a degree in Communication Studies in the fall of 2006. During my last semester of school and the semester following graduation, I served as an assistant coach for the Logger softball team. Having the opportunity to work with the softball team and in the athletic department solidified my desire to have a sport-related career. Everyday I went to work, I was thankful to have a job that was engaging and relevant to my interests. I have also coached youth softball and assisted with youth programs on and off since I graduated high school. When I was younger, I never thought that I would have the opportunity to turn my love of sport into a career. My hope is that by completing the MSAL program, I will be giving myself a chance to have a career that I’ll always love and be passionate about.

 

Erin Aitchison

 I graduated from Occidental College (Los Angeles) in 2002, were I participated in track and field, cross country, and soccer. Unable to finish my senior competitive season I made the switch to coaching, first as a student coach and then ultimately as a full time assistant coach to the track and field program at Occidental. As an athlete, I was All-Conference in track and field all three years I ran and competed at the national level for DIII colleges. Having an interest in track, I am USATF level II certified and have been fortunate enough to coach a state champ team. Currently I am working in the Athletic Department at a small private school in Seattle and coach soccer, basketball, and track.

 

Shelby Albrecht

 I recently graduated from Washington State University where I had an amazing time working in the athletic department. I was a Coug Gal for two years working primarily with WSU Football, helping in the recruiting process. I also worked closely with the marketing department helping with the development of programs in relation to men's and women's basketball. I also filled my time in the WSU Athletic Foundation and Event Management offices. Aside from the athletic department I was a student leader with Campus Crusade for Christ. I now work for The First Tee of Greater Seattle, a non profit organization that teaches kids life skills through the game of golf.

 

Scott Bailey

Originally, from Bellevue, WA, I received my undergraduate degree in Sport Management from Washington State University. Living in Washington my entire life, my allegiances lie with the Seattle Mariners and the Seattle Seahawks, in addition to Washington State University and now Seattle University. I have always had a passion for athletics, and the fields of Sport Management and Sports Administration and Leadership allow me to live out that passion in the workplace. In addition to athletics, my true passion in life is for the Lord, and my Catholic identity is a huge part of who I am and how I live my life. Seattle University has been a great opportunity for me to combine my two passions into one arena, and I hope to be able to continue living these passions out in whatever way God has planned for me.

 

Suzy Barcomb

 I am native of Springfield, Missouri, but now consider Tacoma, Washington my home. I attended Central Missouri State University on a volleyball scholarship playing two seasons of volleyball and one season for the basketball program before transferring to the University of Washington. I played one season for the Huskies Basketball program. I graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Kinesiology and Teacher Certification. I entered the business world and strayed from my passion of teaching and coaching. I came to the realization that I was missing the world of college athletics and I joined The University of Puget Sound’s Coaching staff in 1995 as an Assistant and later became the Head Coach in 1998. I am now entering my tenth year as the Head Coach and find the coaching world is even more fascinating, challenging and rewarding than when I first became a coach. Our basketball program at Puget Sound has been fortunate to attend three NCAA III National Tournaments, advancing to the Elite Eight on two separate occasions. We also have been ranked on the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll four straight years. My interest in the graduate program stems from my desire to build upon my leadership skills and challenge myself academically and personally. The endorsements in regards to the Master of Sport Administration and Leadership Program and Dr. Tripps have been glorious and I look forward to the challenges.

 

William Bartram

 I grew up in Newark, DE. As a youngster I played baseball, basketball, and soccer. In high school I played lacrosse. As an adult I found a new sport: ultimate Frisbee. I began playing ultimate in 1999 in a summer corporate league. I immediately fell in love with the sport and with the community of players. I started playing as much as I could in leagues in Seattle and at tournaments in the northwest. In 2006 my team won a gold medal at the 2006 Club Champions in the Masters division. Following a stint as a software developer for a large online retail company I began my career in athletics. In 2002 I started working with a small internet flying disc shop. After several years I became a co-owner of the business. Also in 2002 I became the Head Coach of the middle school ultimate team at Seattle Academy. I continued to get more involved with youth ultimate, and since 2003 I have been a Tournament Director for Spring Reign, the largest youth ultimate tournament in the world. I took over the job of Executive Director of DiscNW in January of 2005. DiscNW organizes about twenty ultimate leagues every year that serve over 4500 youth and adult players. We also host at least eight tournaments a year including Potlatch, the largest coed ultimate tournament in the world. In the fall of 2007 I was elected to the Board of Directors for the Ultimate Players Association, the national governing body of ultimate. I plan to make the most of my time in the sports administration and leadership program at Seattle University. I seek to gain experience in a wide range of sports business topics and to build a network with students and faculty.

 

Alex Becker

 I am originally from Saginaw, MI and moved out to Seattle this past summer. I graduated from a private liberal arts college (Albion) about 50 minutes west of Detroit with a degree in German and a minor in Political Science. I chose German because my mom is a German teacher, and following high school I spent a year abroad in Radebeul - a city 15 minutes from Dresden in former East Germany. I learned the language, but most importantly I learned what it is to experience different cultures and customs. While there I spent much time playing pick-up basketball and ever since have made many friends doing so. My love for the game began to develop, and as the Detroit Pistons became more successful, I was fascinated by them - from the way the management assembled the players to the concept of team basketball that was instilled in each player. After spending a year searching for a possible future, I moved out here and just happened upon the MSAL program. I love the game of basketball, and because of the current flood of European talent, and international talent for that matter, I am only too fascinated as to what I could do with my European studies and the plans for the NBA's future expansion overseas. And that is where I am today.

 

Jason Behenna

 I have always been a sports fan, especially growing up right outside of Boston and watching sports with my dad, grandfathers, uncles, and cousins. I did some high school basketball play-by-play for a local cable access channel, filled in on a couple of basketball games at the USC student radio station, and always made a point to make at least one trip to Fenway each year, back when tickets were more easily available. When I was looking for a new career in the summer of 2000, collegiate athletics became a serious option. I was lucky enough to earn an entry level position in the sports information office at Centenary College in Shreveport, La., and started my career there. I made it to Assistant Sports Information Director before moving on in 2004 to the University of New Hampshire in a similar position. By the summer of 2006, I was ready to apply what I learned and run my own sports information office. I was lucky enough to receive the opportunity to become Sports Information Director here at Seattle University and have entered my second year ready to help the department make the jump to Division I. I decided that entering the MSAL program can only help my career. I believe the master's degree and the knowledge I will receive will help me if I decide to make the move back East, although that is not set in stone. I look forward to the interaction with my classmates and instructors as I move along in this program.

 

Sarah Brooks

I graduated from Willamette University (Salem, OR) in 2007 earning a B.A. in History. I played two years of basketball at Chemeketa Community College before transferring to Willamette to play my final two seasons and complete my degree. I am currently working as an assistant coach at Willamette where I am primarily in charge of the point guards and scouting. The MSAL program is a perfect fit for me because of my vast love of sports and my ultimate goal of a career in collegiate athletics. My main interests are collegiate basketball and sports information with the ultimate goal of coaching or working in an administrative position for a Division I school. Sports, specifically basketball, have been a passion of mine since I was a youth and I am excited about the opportunity the MSAL program provides to connect my passion and my future career.

 

Michael Bruneau

 I received my BA from the University of Washington in 2005. Since my graduation, I have been working primarily in sales and marketing but unfortunately, outside of sports. For me, the MSAL program at Seattle U is about taking my skills, my experience, and my goals and redirecting them back toward what I had always intended on pursuing. Growing up, baseball was (by all practical measures) the religion in my family. It was the first topic at the dinner table. It was our vacation destination and it was essentially, the dominant force in my youth. After lettering in baseball at Port Angeles High School, I had the proverbial “cup of coffee” in college baseball before a shoulder injury ended any prospects I had for continuing my baseball career. These days, when I’m not at the dog park with my Lab, Brooks, I enjoy many of the things we all enjoy: Friends, family, travel, and all the little things in life. I am really excited about the MSAL program at Seattle U. The opportunity to combine my passion for sports with education and eventually my career is something truly special. I just can’t wait to get started.

 

Kelsey Bumgarner

I grew up on a farm outside of Great Falls, Montana and attended a small school where I participated in three varsity sports: volleyball, basketball, and track and field. My family has a long history in sports, and I have spent my entire life attending or participating in some form of athletics. I graduated from Whitworth University in Spokane in 2009, where I spent four years working in the athletics department in the sports information office. My senior year I conducted an internship in the office, where I learned to greatly enjoy the inner workings of an athletic department. I entered Seattle University's MSAL program in the fall of 2009, and am looking forward to the experiences I gain both in and out of the classroom that will prepare me to continue working in sports information.

 

Christopher Cadogan

 I was born in Philadelphia, PA and grew up in Raleigh, NC. I spent most of my childhood participating in a variety of sports such as swimming, track, basketball, baseball and soccer. At about the age of eight I stopped playing all other sports and focused on track and soccer. During high school I spent four years playing for one of the top youth soccer clubs in the nation CASL Elite. As for high school athletics I ran varsity track my freshmen and sophomore years. During my freshmen year of track I was a conference finalist and a conference runner up my sophomore year in the 400-meter event. During my junior and senior year of high school I was a member of the varsity soccer team and earned all-conference awards both years. After high school I attended a small private school in Virginia called Hampden-Sydney College where I continued my education and soccer career. While at HSC I was a four-year starter on the varsity soccer squad and earned all-conference awards my final three seasons along with team MVP my freshmen and senior years. During my senior year at HSC I realized I wanted soccer to be a permanent part of my life. So after graduating HSC in 2006 with a BA in Psychology, I got a job coaching youth soccer with my former youth club CASL Elite. For the past year I was a staff coach in the U9 Youth Training Systems program. Along with my coaching responsibilities at CASL I was also a staff coach with a youth organization called Next Level Academy that focused on the development of technical and agility skills for ages U-7 through U-11. While working for both programs I enjoyed coaching and interacting with the players and coaching in general. In addition to my interest in the coaching aspect of the game, I also developed a desire to learn what it takes to build an elite program such as CASL Elite or Next Level Academy. As a result I went in search of sports administration programs that could help fulfill my educational needs. During my search for graduate programs in the Sports Administration field I came across the MSAL program at Seattle University. What attracted me to the program was the challenging coursework and the chance to further my education at a higher levels along side others who shared a similar passion for sports, success, and education. I think the MSAL program can help me achieve my professional goals and connect with people the sports world.

 

Alex Caufield

I was born in northern England, just outside of Leeds, and for as long as I can remember sport has been an integral part of my life. I was raised on the English brand of football (soccer), and to this day it continues to be my favorite sport and activity. My mother is American, and I moved to the States to be closer to her side of the family when I was nine. My love for athletics grew in this country, and I am extremely excited to begin the next two years in the MSAL program. I played four years of college football at Kenyon College, a Division III liberal-arts institution in central Ohio. I graduated from Kenyon in May of 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Classics. I first realized that I could turn my passion for athletics into a career while interning in the front office of the Cleveland Browns. It is my sincere hope to build upon this notion with the aid of MSAL faculty members and my colleagues. I am looking forward to being in an environment with individuals that share my enthusiasm and professional ambitions. Currently I am living in New York City and plan to move to Seattle in late August, 2008.

 

Janna Chow

 I am a 2006 graduate of the University of Puget Sound where I majored in Exercise Science and minored in Business. I was introduced to the business aspect of sports while working as a secretary for the Athletic Director at Hawaii high school powerhouse Punahou School, where I became familiar with everything that goes on behind the scenes of an elite high school athletic program. Wanting to combine my degree with my love for sports, I came across Seattle University's MSAL program, and was attracted to the passion and dedication Dr. Tripps and the rest of the teaching staff showed for the field. A big factor in my applying to the MSAL program was the class schedule and location. I wanted to continue my education, but I also wanted to start building my work experience while being able to stay in the Northwest, and the MSAL program allows me to do just that. Eventually I want to return home to help improve and promote sports and physical activity in Hawaii high schools, but for now I'm loving it in Seattle and I'm glad I came across such a wonderful program.

 

Alexander Chursky

 I was born in Canada but raised right here in Washington. I currently help out with SU Men's soccer as an assistant coach. As I move away from playing competitively, I'm learning to appreciate the impact that sports make. I'm grateful for the times I've spent playing soccer at the youth levels and in college, and I hope to continue on as a coach. I feel that if I can give back some of what was given to me by my coaches, then I'll definitely have a positive influence. I graduated from Seattle University in Spring 2006 with a BA in Communication Studies, and I look forward to continuing my education through the Sport Administration and Leadership program at SU.

 

Jaime Court

I grew up in Woodinville, WA and attended Gonzaga University until 2004 when I received my Bachelor’s in Physical Education and my teaching certification in Health and Fitness. After completing my degree I returned to the Northwest and began my teaching career. I am working as a PE teacher at Voyager Middle where I coach volleyball, swimming and track. I have also coached softball at Everett High School. Through the MSAL program I hope to gain a greater understanding of the business side of sports and achieve a enhanced understanding of coaching youth sports.

 

Megan Coyne

 Soccer has provided me the opportunity to play four-years as a Division I collegiate goalkeeper, to travel extensively and, most importantly, to interact with extraordinary people. In 2007 I completed three BAs at Florida Atlantic University in Communications, Sociology and Social Sciences with a minor in Ethnic Studies and participated in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) as a two-term President. I was elected to represent the Sun Belt Conference on the Division I National SAAC, became DI NSAAC New Media Chair and represented the DI NSAAC on the Committee for Women’s Athletics (CWA). My unique experiences and passion for intercollegiate athletics has led me home to pursue a Masters in the Seattle University MSAL program. I was drawn back to family, friends and the opportunity to be part of an institution reclassifying from Division II to Division I. The combination of the FAU and SU programs has allowed me to pursue a one-year internship at the NCAA Headquarters in Indianapolis, IN working in Governance. Sports have made me who I am today and I want my career to give student-athletes the same amazing experiences and opportunities that I was provided during my intercollegiate career.

 

Hilary Crisman

I graduated from Western Washington University in 2006 with a B.S. in Exercise Science and minor in business. I played soccer on the Western team for four years. Now I am very active with soccer from a different perspective as a referee. I have been refereeing for nine years and enjoy the challenges at every level of competition, youth, high school, and intercollegiate. I am also very passionate about encouraging people to remain physically active. I hold national certifications as an A

 

CSM health and fitness instructor and NSCA certified strength and conditioning specialist. I am especially interested in finding ways to promote sports and recreation among the mature adult population within the community. The MSAL program is unique in the many experienced instructors and guest speakers who offer a wealth of knowledge and encouragement. The MSAL program is a great opportunity to meet others with a love for sports and find out how I can integrate my passions for health, fitness, community, and geriatrics into a rewarding career.

 

Mark Cross

Born and raised in the Rainier Valley / Beacon Hill neighborhood of Seattle, Washington, I have been attracted to and participated in team sports since childhood. While growing up I was continuously involved in school and community based teams such as soccer, basketball, baseball, and football. As a teenager my passion became football. I participated all four years as a varsity player and three year starter for Ballard High School. I also had the opportunity to play football at the college level for Santa Rosa Junior College in California and Concordia College in Minnesota. I graduated from Central Washington University in the summer of 2006 with a B.S. in Health and Fitness Education K-12, and a minor in Exercise Science I am currently a Physical Education teacher at Lakota Middle School in the Federal Way School District where I instruct PE classes to grades sixth through eighth. In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I am very active in the athletic department as a coach during all four sports seasons including Varsity football, JV girls and boy’s basketball, as well as track and field. Recently, I was hired as the Seattle Preparatory School Head Freshmen Football Coach. Education and athletics are two areas that I am passionate about and this enthusiasm paired with my aspiration to lead and motivate others led me to pursue a Master of Sport Administration and Leadership degree. My mentor and dear friend introduced me to the program at Seattle University and at completion I hope to advance into the upper levels of coaching and achieve my ultimate goal to become an Athletic Director. Acquiring a position in this area would satisfy my desire to work with students in the sports industry and assist them in an arena that is extremely important to our society and future. I am extremely honored to be a part of this very prestigious program.

 

Erica Crossman

A native of a small Northern California farm town, growing up I busied myself by staying involved in sports. Basketball, soccer, softball, golf, rock climbing and ballet consumed my afternoons, evenings and weekends for all of my childhood. It only seemed natural to pursue my passion of soccer in college, so I played for 4 years on Varsity at Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon. I was an all-conference selection all 4 years, and an all region selection my sophomore and junior years. Even though my competitive years ended upon graduation, I couldn't allow my involvement to end also. So I became the assistant coach at my alma mater for a year before joining the staff at Newberg High School as both a soccer coach for the JV team and the coach for the JV and Varsity girls' golf teams. It would be an understatement to say that I love sports. Sports are my life. And what better way to pursue something that is already my life as a career than by obtaining a Master's in Sports Administration and Leadership from Seattle University.

 

Kat Cuevas

Since I can remember, being in or around a pool has been a staple and integral part of my life. From these roots my passion for sport has grown, and the lessons and opportunities that sport yields have had a great impact in my life. Since beginning competitive swimming at age six, I continued to compete through college for Seattle University, and now coach as the assistant coach of the men’s and women’s swimming program at Seattle University. I have enjoyed the transition from swimmer to coach, and look to the MSAL program to further extend my knowledge and experience with all sports. It is interesting to find what makes individual athletes, teams, and sports organizations tick, and the program offers insight into these arenas by way of an experienced faculty. I greatly look forward to spending more time around professionals and peers who are equally as passionate about sport.

 

Jeff Darden 

 

 

 

Jeanette Demianew

I grew up in Pendleton, OR, where I participated in almost any activity that was offered. I learned the ropes by following my older brothers from sporting event to sporting event. I started swim lessons when I was three years old after my dad became tired of saving me from drowning after jumping into the deep end of the pool time after time. Although, I was too young to start lessons, the instructors allowed me to begin as long as one of my siblings was there. From that age on, I have always been involved in competitive sports. Throughout my adolescent and teen years I was involved in everything ranging from bowling to baseball. I was an extremely active child and did not enjoy sitting on the sidelines. In high school, I played volleyball, basketball, softball, and swim team. After graduating high school, I attend Saint Martin's University in Lacey, WA, and played Division II Softball. I graduated from SMU with a double degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice. While attending SMU, I served as the co-chair for the Student Athlete Advisory Committee for three years, as well as a team captain for three years. I did my work study with the Athletic Department as the assistant to the Program Specialist and Sports Informational Director/Compliance Coordinator. At night I help run the intramural program and worked in the weight room. During the summer months, I continued to work in the Athletic Department and during the school year also worked as the volleyball statistician, basketball statistician, and was Game Manager for a year after I graduated. I am very excited about the MSAL program and the ability to continue my love and passion for the sports world. I am very thankful for this opportunity and can not wait to see the possibilities that it will lead me too.

 

Shannon Forslund

I am in my second year as the women’s soccer assistant coach here at Seattle University. I played college soccer at the University of Montana for four years. While at Montana, I earned a BA in Psychology. I have coached at the collegiate level for the University of Idaho and the University of Montana before arriving at SU. I have been involved with many of the youth soccer clubs in the area and currently coach a U-13 and U-18 soccer team for the Crossfire Club out of Redmond. Besides coaching soccer, I also continue to play. I will be entering my sixth season with the Seattle Sounders Women semi-professional soccer team. I am very excited about the addition of the MSAL program here at Seattle University. If I decide to pursue my coaching career and someday hope to have a soccer program of my own, the MSAL program can provide me with a wealth of knowledge and experience in that area, including becoming a better leader and administrator.

 

Becca Gillespy

I grew up in Seattle and attended King's High School, where I was the 1A State Champion in the pole vault in 2000. After attending University of Florida and University of Georgia, I went on to pole vault at Lindenwood University near St. Louis. While at Lindenwood I qualified for nationals five times, won conference twice and earned valuable experience as the Sports Information Director for my track and cross country teams. I was also able to coach the pole vault at Washington University in St. Louis where my top vaulter was a two-time Division III All-American. While in college I founded PoleVaultPower.com, currently the most popular pole vault related website. Now that I am back in Seattle, I am coaching cross country and track at King's High School and will be coaching the pole vaulters at Seattle U.

 

Gabriella Gillett

I grew up in the Seattle area and played sports year round. Baseball took my heart at a young age and still plays a big roll in my life. I started swimming almost as soon as I could walk and started bowling and softball in elementary school. In high school I not only played sports but started teaching swim lessons and volunteering with the wrestling team and my younger bothers sports activities. After graduating from Evergreen High School I decided that I wanted to start out on a new adventure away from the Seattle. I attended Washington State University where I was a member of the bowling team. In 2003 I graduated with a BA in Business Administration – Business Law and a BA in Sport Management. Upon completion of my degree at Washington State I took an internship in Alexandria, LA for an independent baseball team. This internship led to a job in Rockford, IL where I was the Director of Merchandise and Office Manager for another baseball team. November 2004 I decided that it was time to come back to Seattle. I continued working in sports until 2006, when I took a position at Seattle University. Married in September I knew that I was ready to get back into sports. So when I saw that Seattle University had a master’s program in Sports Administration I jumped at the opportunity.

 

 Irene Guzman

I graduated from Saint Mary’s College of California in 2004. I played four years of Division I lacrosse for the Gaels and continue to stay involved in the sport by coaching at the high school level and playing for Seattle University’s club team. I spent my first year out of college as an Americorps volunteer in Memphis, TN, where I coached soccer, basketball, and lacrosse. My dream job is to be an athletic director and I believe that Seattle University will give me the knowledge and experience I need to succeed. I chose this program because it focuses not only on the business side of athletics but also because it questions the ethical side of sport. The enthusiasm my fellow classmates and Professor Tripps have for the MSAL degree proves that I’ve made the right decision. Read Irene's Blog about here experience in the MSAL program here.

 

Stephanie Hamilton

I have worked in Events Management for 17 years at the University of Washington. I started off as a field guard and for the past 5 years I have been Supervisor of perimeter guards and field guards at football games. I also work other events as an usher. I was an assistant coach of a U-16 softball team and coach of a U-10 softball team. I have volunteered as a chaperone for Issaquah Ski School for a period of 4 years. I currently work on a crisis line for domestic violence which I absolutely enjoy. Helping others is inspiring, especially with young people. My love of sports stems from my family. I have volunteered my time with high school security at events, time keeper for swimming, to time keeper and scorer for wrestling. I look forward to the graduate program to enhance my learning experience and to gain more opportunities for growth. I enjoy the interaction of employees and the fans. I look forward to my new path with much enthusiasm.

 

Lisa Hill

As Roberto Clemente once said, “I want to be remembered as a ballplayer who gave all she[he] had to give.”  My name is Lisa Hill and softball has not only been a large part of my life, it has significantly defined who I am today and who I will be tomorrow.  When I started playing softball at the age of 6, I had no idea where it would take me but it’s the same love of the game I had than that has gotten me this far and is encouraging me to pursue a career in the sports industry.  Softball encouraged me to travel the country at a young age, pursue a college education at Oregon State University, pursue a masters degree here at Seattle U, work with youth, and as of late- travel the world.  In the future, my experience gained through this program and with softball will encourage me to attempt one of the greater feats possible: positively effecting humanity.  I am in this program to gain the sport managerial skills needed to one day pursue a career in community outreach through sport: I want to be the person who inspires those who are gifted in sport to help those less fortunate and spread the message that achieving dreams through sport is possible if one always remembers to give.  Sport has given me such tremendous opportunities that for me not to give back would be a waste; As Roberto Clemente also said “Any time you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don’t, than you are wasting your time on Earth.”  I am confident that this program will give me the experience and confidence needed to achieve my dream of inspiring countless others to achieve theirs as well.

 

Craig Hughner

I was born and raised in Los Angeles where, thanks to the incredible Dodger teams of the 1980’s, I developed a deep passion for the game of baseball. I literally used to have my diapers changed in the stands at Dodger Stadium when I was a toddler and I've been hooked ever since. After graduating from Washington State in 2003 and working for Fox Sports Net for the next three years, I came to realize that I didn't just want to report sports news, I wanted to create it. That realization led me to Seattle University, where the MSAL program has provided me with a wealth of knowledge and the contacts necessary to launch my career in Major League Baseball. After interning with the Seattle Mariners in 2007, I've spent the past two seasons working for the Philadelphia Phillies in the Baseball Communications department, which includes our incredible World Series Championship in 2008.

 

 

 

Heidi Johnecheck

A native of Michigan, I ran cross country and track in high school and college. After graduation, I moved to the Northwest to play Ultimate Frisbee and to work in the non-profit sector. Highlighting my tenure, I had the fortune to be part of the 1999 World Championship team and to manage an organization that provided emergency services for nearly 200 people each night. In 2001, I left both to have 2 children and to start coaching high school cross country and teaching natural history. My continued interest in athletics led me to the MSAL program. I am looking forward to engaging in a program that will sharpen my organizational leadership skills and introduce me to those already working in the field.

 

Justin Kesterson

I grew up in Parkersburg, WV where I developed my love for sports at a very young age. Throughout high school I enjoyed a successful running career in cross country. I went on to attend Marshall University where I received a B.A. in Sports Management and Marketing. While at Marshall, I completed a practicum and internship working for our Sports Information Department. In 2006 I also completed an internship with the West Virginia Power, the Class Low A affiliate for the Milwaukee Brewers. Following graduation in the spring of 2007 I moved to Seattle to pursue my Masters Degree in the MSAL program. I am very excited to be a part of a program that gives you so many great opportunities, and makes me feel confident that upon completion I will be ready and able for anything I will face in the sports world.

 

Jon Killingbeck

 I graduated from Central Washington University (Ellensburg) in 2007. For two years I was a student assistant coach on with the omen’s volleyball program. I also hosted a sports talk radio show for two years. I graduated from Central with BS in Geology. In high school I helped with women’s basketball and fast pitch. I played football and was thrower on the track team. I am currently a grad assistant with Seattle Universities women’s volleyball program and will be the host of the sport nest on KSUB, the student radio station here at Seattle U.

 

Jason Kitay

I am originally from Los Angeles, CA. I moved up to Seattle to attend the University of Washington. While at UW, I was a member of the UW Ice Hockey Team, and held Vice President, and President rolls on our student board. Also while at UW, I was able to intern with the Seattle Thunderbirds Hockey Club. I graduated from UW in 2007 with a degree in international economics. I found out about this program from a current student, and my former coach, Rob Ramsburgh. My ultimate goal is to return to Los Angeles and work for the Los Angeles Kings.

 

Chad Kodama

I grew up in Seattle, Washington and graduated from Roosevelt High School. After high school I attended the University of idaho where I play ed football and majored in Physical Education. I am currently the Physical Education Specialist at West Seattle Elementary School.

 

 

Justin Kraemer

I am from Marysville, Wa and have been involved in sports for as long as I can remember. I primarily played soccer growing up, and was also a referee for about 10 years. I played at Everett Community College while I was getting my Associates before transferring to the University of Idaho. I graduated from U of I in May of 2007 with my Bachelor’s in Recreation with a minor in Outdoor Recreation Leadership. While in school, I worked for the city of Moscow’s Parks and Recreation Department where I was a part of their facility staff and program specialist. After graduation, I moved back to Marysville for the summer and worked for Marysville Parks and Recreation. I currently work for the Mukilteo Boys and Girls Club as the director of athletics. I first discovered the Sports Administration program here at Seattle University while searching for job prospects during my final semester at Idaho. After about 10 minutes of reviewing the information on the website, I knew it was for me and applied that day. The big sell for me was the location, and the professional network that is available to the students. Once I finish school I hope to work in an Intercollegiate Athletic Department or a Professional Sports setting. I am still pretty unsure on which avenue to pursue, so it is a good thing I have two more years to figure it out!

 

Brittany Kreimendahl

I grew up in Overland Park, KS and have always enjoyed sports, playing and watching. I’ve been involved in swimming, softball, and soccer since the age of 7. I eventually found soccer to be my passion and focused on that up through high school. I looked into playing soccer in college but at the time I was looking at schools with a veterinary program and soccer wasn’t offered at most of them. I attended Kansas State University where I graduated in 2007 with a degree in Kinesiology and a minor in Animal Sciences. While at KSU, I found a love for collegiate athletics and hope to one day be a part of a collegiate athletic department. I fell in love with the athletic atmosphere and that’s what draws me in. I have and will always love animals but my heart is set on building a career with sports. The last few years I’ve studied sports as far as their effects on the human body (and vice versa) and I’m anxious to learn about the administrative side

 

Matt Lattier

A Seattle area native, I graduated from O’Dea High School in 1998. I was a four year varsity tennis letterman in high school at O’Dea and went on to play two years at Shoreline Community College where I later went back to coach the women’s tennis program. I transferred to Seattle University in 2002 where I graduated with my BA in Criminal Justice in 2004. After graduating, I had the opportunity to work as an intern with the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms in the Intelligence Unit. The knowledge I gained during this internship was valuable but I realized that in order to be truly happy personally and professionally, I had to pursue what interested me the most: sports. I am in my second year in the MSAL program. This is an exciting opportunity for me as I have always had a passion for sports. Until recently, I was working for the Seattle Sonics as a Season Ticket Retention and Experience Specialist however, I just couldn't make the leap to OKC. Currently, I am the General Manager of the Mill Creek Tennis Club. This is a great opportunity for me as a lifelong competitive player and fan of the sport. I credit my time in this program at Seattle University with providing me the exposure that I need to have success in whatever capacity I find myself in. It’s all about networking in the sports industry and this program has given me every opportunity to do that thus far.

 

Ashley Lawrence

My love of sports began when I was little and I have been involved in them ever since. Growing up in Menlo Park, Ca, I had many opportunities to join leagues and play lots of different sports. These included soccer, basketball, swimming, and volleyball. I loved the fact that I had a different team for every season of the year. Volleyball soon became my passion and I was playing almost year-round when I got to high school. I still participated in soccer and swimming but I loved volleyball more than any of them. When it came to go to college, I decided to put away my kneepads and grabbed an oar, joining the Women’s novice Crew team at UC Davis. I found a new, very challenging sport that I loved and teammates that I will have as friends for life. In addition to being busy with school and crew, I earned a position at the Triple-A baseball team, the Sacramento River Cats, working in the promotions and marketing departments. This continued to fuel my love for sports and it was then I decided that a career in the sports industry was what I would do. I graduated in 2006 with a degree in communications I am very excited to continue my education at SU in the MSAL program. Although I may not be participating in sports the same way I’ve grown up doing, I know that this is the next best thing.

 

Corey Lowell

I grew up in Woodinville, WA, and in 2007, graduated from Lewis & Clark College, in Portland, OR, where I obtained a degree in Economics (Management Emphasis) with a minor in Communications. While at LC, I also played baseball; moving from third base to right field and lettering all four years. Ever since I can remember, sports has been my passion. Living in Washington, I grew up watching historic sports moments like Griffey running around third sliding head first into home, Shawn Alexander breaking the single-season touchdown record, and even the Storm bringing a WNBA championship home to Seattle. I played soccer, and basketball, and, of course ... baseball. I coached youth basketball teams, I coached junior high girl's softball teams. I played baseball in high school; and yet I realized that the chances of my being able to play at the professional level were very small. So when I entered my undergraduate studies, I focused on business; expecting that one day I would have the opportunity to work in the “business side of sports.” I have continued my personal involvement in baseball; coaching "Mantle-level" baseball teams in Redmond and Woodinville during the summers. I envision the MSAL program at Seattle University as my entree' into eventually becoming an MLB executive; combining my impassioned love of sports and my unbridled enthusiasm for business.

 

Alan Lu

Hello, my name is Alan Lu. I am a 22 year old recent graduate and alumni of Saint Louis University with a degree in human resources management. This will be my first year in the Masters of Sport and Administration Leadership program as I will be enrolling in the 2007-2008 year. Sports are my passion, and always have been ever since I was kid. For the longest time, I have always enjoyed sports and its many aspects, which include playing sports, collecting statistics, and watching my favorite players on television. As a kid, I was a passionate fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Bulls, and still am in many respects. I remember I was hooked on the thrilling game that is basketball when Michael Jordan moved around two defenders and made a spectacular lay-up against the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1991 NBA Finals. From then on, I always wanted to be able to contribute in many ways that could lead to that sort of impact. Today, I plan to help sports by giving back to the community and by building my skills at Seattle University. Through my passionate enthusiasm and my willingness to work hard and go the extra mile, I hope that through the leadership of Dr. Tripps that I will be one of the many successful graduate students that will have ever walked through the door of Seattle University.

 

Richard Lu

For me, saying basketball is my passion would be something of a gross understatement. To be honest, I am full-fledged, unabashed basketball junkie. I have loved the game for as long as I can remember, even though I’m from St. Louis, a city that hasn’t had NBA basketball since the Hawks left town in 1968. I’ve put up with lockouts, brawls, Stephon Marbury and teams coached by Mike Fratello. Still, my enthusiasm for basketball has not waned one iota. After graduating from USC with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an Emphasis in Marketing, I went back home to help grow my family’s commercial real estate business. While on the job, I got inspired reading the work of Bill James and prominent basketball statisticians like Dean Oliver, Roland Beech, John Hollinger and countless others. I realized that I could take my fascination with stats and potentially turn it into a way to help an NBA team make better personnel decisions through the development of my skills. From a quantitative standpoint, I have and still continue do a ton of independent research. I created a system that utilizes quantitative comparison to determine a college player’s ability to translate his skills into the NBA and identify the ideal conditions to develop his talent. I enrolled in this program to build my leadership skills, increase my knowledge of the business and gain the network of contacts, so I can embark on a successful career in basketball operations. With the help of all my colleagues and faculty at Seattle U, I am confident that I will make my dream of becoming an NBA General Manager a reality.

 

Eric Lundgren

I was born and raised in Edmonds WA. I Graduated from Central Washington University last August with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Economics. I have been a huge fan of professional football (especially THE SEAHAWKS) my entire life, I was there during the good days of Steve Largent through the not so good days of Rick Mirer and I am here now during the glory years which we are blessed with today (Defending NFC Champions)! I have always known that I wanted to be involved with professional football (especially THE SEAHAWKS) in some capacity, and from what I have heard, read, and understand the MSAL Program at Seattle University is the best way to make that plan begin to take flight. After attaining the knowledge that this program will provide I hope to land a job in the NFL (especially with THE SEAHAWKS).

 

Sean Machak

Graduated from Linfield College in 2006 with a BS, majoring in exercise science, and minoring in biology. Conducted a study involving the design, implementation and results of a training program for the McMinnville Fire Department. Will receive his personal training certification from the National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF). Has a long history of fitness and athletics, from presidential physical fitness awards as a youngster, to state and conference recognition in high school, and Division III track and field and football for the Linfield Wildcats. Will attend graduate school at SU in the Fall.

 

Rosemary Meyn

I grew up in the small town of Belgrade, Montana where for me, life was sports. In high school, I ran cross country, participated in track and field, dabbled in softball, and found my heart in volleyball. I attended Carroll College in Helena, Montana, on a full-athletic scholarship for volleyball and was a four-year starter, helping my team to three consecutive Frontier Conference Championships, and four Regional Tournament appearances. While in college, I began coaching select volleyball and have continued to do so in my move to Seattle. I graduated from Carroll College in 2006 with a major in business, concentrations in marketing, management, economics, finance, and international business, and a minor in French. I moved to Seattle in the summer of 2006, and began playing volleyball and softball as I settled into the fast-paced city life. I began working in the venture capital industry, but soon found that I missed the prominent role that athletics, and particularly sports marketing and management, had played in my life. I embrace challenges, and look forward to furthering my education and enhancing my leadership skills and passion for the sports industry. I hope to one day return to the Big Sky state and continue to pursue coaching and a career in the marketing and athletics department at a local college or university.

 

Megan Moe

From a very young age, sport has always been a huge part of my life. I grew up in a suburb of Chicago where I ran track & cross country and competed at the state level in both. Under unfortunate circumstances, I tore my right ACL my senior year which prevented me from pursuing any dreams of running at the college level. I attended University of Wisconsin, Madison and graduated in 1997. Since then, I’ve actively been involved in competing in triathlons and running marathons while working in Management as a meeting planner for an educational company in Madison, Wisconsin. The past year, my husband and I moved to New Zealand where I had the opportunity to assist in coaching a girls cross country team at the high school level. It was during this past year that I discovered the MSAL program at Seattle University. I believe that the MSAL program not only meets my professional goals, but also shares focus with many of my personal interests. I can think of no other area of study that can combine my talents and experience as a business professional with my lifelong desire to coach, lead, or manage in the field of competitive sport. I have a great deal of passion and motivation to further the ideals of sport in our society and am so proud to be a part of this program.

 

Justin Morrow

I love writing about sports, talking about sports, and learning about sports. So, when I found out Seattle University offered the MSAL program, I was ecstatic. Then, when I met Dr. Tripps at the graduate school fair, and saw the beauty of Seattle University's campus in the springtime, I was sold on the idea of leaving my small town life for the big city of Seattle. I grew up in Coupeville, Washington, and later moved to Bellingham to attend Western Washington University(WWU). During my college years, I worked with people who have disabilities. I hope to continue this work by volunteering through the MSAL program. My professional sports journalism experience involves an internship at KRKO 1380 in Everett, and working for various news outlets at WWU -- including the best college newspaper in the universe: The Western Front. In my personal life, I enjoy reading about sports and nutrition, and listening to Neil Diamond. My dream job is to be a correspondent for HBO’s Real Sports.

 

Emily Mydynski

I grew up on Whidbey Island, WA where life is full of fun recreational activities, especially snow and water skiing, kayaking and hiking. I also participated in organized sports throughout high school as a track and field runner and a sports medicine trainer for football and basketball. I went to college at Seattle Pacific University were I studied History and International Studies. Within the four years that I was at college I studied abroad twice, Spain and New Zealand, were I was introduced to rugby. During college I played club rugby and tournament ultimate Frisbee, as well as an array of intramural sporting events. I graduated in 2007 which is also the year I began coaching the Sprint Team at Ballard High School for the spring Track and Field season. Currently I work in Seattle in the business world at Philips Medical Systems, were I enjoy an office job but also play on the companies Seattle Rec. soccer team. My hobbies as a young kid have developed into passions as a young adult as I now spend as much time as I am able out on the water and in the mountains. But I have also developed a great zeal for NFL and college ball’s Big 10 football. I am a fan of the Seattle Seahawks but can also be found watching world match soccer and rugby as well as the occasional golf tour or sailing challenge. I have decided to join the MSAL program to combine my business drive and experience with my enthusiasm for sports and events. I hope to work in an environment that makes the best use of my event operations and corporate business skills in a way that brings excitement to the community and engages my interests and passions.

 

Megan Nicholson

The strongest memories I have of my childhood involve sports, be it my own athletic events or attending local games with family. Growing up in central California, sports has always been a significant part of my life. As a competitive swimmer and water polo player I learned a great deal about leadership and teamwork. As a freshman at Fresno State I played on the Women's Club Water Polo team which placed in the national competition that year for the first time in the program's history. Following an injury I was no longer able to compete with the team, but I began researching my options. I discovered Sports Administration, and during my senior year at Fresno State I worked as an assistant to the CEO of Fresno Falcons Hockey team in Fresno. This experience solidified my passion for working in the field of athletics and Seattle University has offered me a way to develop this passion. It is my hope that I can one day be a role model for athletes that are no longer eligible to compete but still wish to be involved in something that has been such an important part of their lives.

 

Lisa Nielsen

I grew up on the Central Coast of California, in both the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley. Growing up I played every sport I possibly could. I attended Ernest Righetti High School where I played soccer and basketball. I also played traveling soccer and traveling basketball throughout high school. Upon graduation, I went to San Diego State University to pursue my passion for soccer as a member of the Women’s Soccer team. I played midfield for the four years of my soccer career at SDSU. I graduated San Diego State University in May 2008 with my B.A. in Psychology. During my junior and senior year I worked for the Event Management Department in athletics. I have always been a very sports oriented person, whether I’m playing or a spectator. When I learned about the MSAL program at SU and spoke to Dr. Tripps and others, I became extremely excited about the opportunities the program has to offer. I am eager to work with the professors, my fellow students, and others involved in the MSAL program, to gain the knowledge and experience necessary for a career in Sport Administration.

 

Matthew Niemeyer

I grew up in Michigan and then in the California Bay Area, and participated in many sports. I enjoyed playing basketball, hockey, soccer and swimming. In high school, I discovered my love for rowing, and continued to row competitively until my graduation in 2002. I then rowed on Seattle University’s rowing club and served as the men’s co-captain my junior and senior years. In 2006, I graduated from Seattle U with a Bachelor’s of History. After graduating I continued working with the SU crew club as an assistant coach. With this experience and my passion for athletics, I knew that joining the MSAL program at Seattle U would be an important step for me. Through the MSAL program I hope to gain a better understanding of the administrative aspect of athletics, so that I can pursue a career in collegiate or professional sports.

 

Woody Piirto

Throughout my life I have been involved in athletics. As a youngster I played eight sports, overlapping one another throughout the years. My love for sports grew, culminating in playing Division I basketball at the University of Colorado (Big XII). This lifetime of sports has left a lasting impact on me, imprinting a set of values and strength that would be otherwise missing. For this reason I want to make a goal of contributing back to the industry that gave me so much.

 

Peter Plantenberg

I’ve been playing sports for as long as I remember. Growing up in Olympia, Washington, I played pretty much everything, from baseball and basketball to tennis and swimming, but as I reached high school I focused more on soccer. Playing club and high school ball for four years, I was running to practice almost year-round. Once I began college at Western Washington University, I reestablished my love with playing other sports by playing a variety of intramurals. Now I play as much soccer as my schedule will allow. I love following sports, watching sports, talking about sports and participating in sports. I’m quite excited that I have found a curriculum in the Masters in Sports Administration and Leadership program that will help me to pursue a career that will help me live my passion.

 

Penny Richter 

I am a Texas girl who grew up in San Antonio experiencing those “Friday Night Lights” firsthand. Few sports opportunities were offered to girls at the time – you either joined pep squad, cheerleading or band (interesting “sport”, eh). The schools also offered tennis and track, but neither sport appealed to me. With those meager offerings, I found it much more interesting to watch boys’ sports and to learn the nuances of team sports like basketball and football. I found, as I mastered the rules and strategy of the game that I was often called on by my classmates in the pep squad to explain what was going on in the game. As I embarked on my professional career in the criminal justice system, I got to know great pro teams from the bleachers – in Houston, New York, Minneapolis and Seattle. Television coverage of college sports was expanding as the NCAA game became a greater attraction to TV audiences, and I began to follow the college game more closely. After spending 20 years working in the criminal justice system, where success was dependent on understanding of the subtleties of the law, I decided that collegiate NCAA compliance would build on my passion for team sports and provide a natural fit for my training as a critical analyst. I am excited and privileged to participate in a program that indulges one of my passions and affords me exposure to all aspects of sports.

 

Peter Rizzardi

Sports have always been a big part of my life growing up in Seattle, Washington. Competing in nearly every sport as a youth, I eventually narrowed my focus to track & field in high school. I had a very successful track career at O'Dea High School and continued on in college competing for Washington State University. Along with being a long/triple jumper for the Cougars, I was able to complete my Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in management in 4 years. Graduating in 2004 I returned to Seattle where I started working full time at a law firm. I also began serving as a volunteer track coach for the SCAA youth track club during the spring and summer. Coaching helped me to realize my passion for being involved with athletics outside of just being an athlete. Seeking ways to be able to work within the sports world full time eventually led me to the MSAL program at Seattle University. I'm excited to be apart of the MSAL program and learn more about the many opportunities within the world of sports. I hope to be able to use sports as a way of positively influencing today's youth, especially those in less fortunate situations. I would also like to continue coaching track & field and hopefully help to encourage more interest in the sport.

 

Kara Roberts

My name is Kara Roberts and I grew up in Roseville, CA. I have been involved in all sorts of sports since I was about 5 years old, but my passion has always been softball. I began pitching when I was eight years old and it has been my life since. I attended Humboldt State University where I was a starting pitcher for four years, and pitcher of the year in 2003. I graduated from HSU in 2005 with my BA in History, but I could not seem to steer away from softball, and began coaching young girls. I became a Professional Pitching Coach for over 50 girls in the area and also the Pitching Coach for the community college, College of the Redwoods. I was at CR for two years, before becoming engaged and moving up to Gig Harbor, Washington. Now I am the Pitching Coach for the University of Puget Sound and continue my private pitching lessons with young pitchers in the area. I look forward to continuing my passion for sports with Seattle Universities Sports Administration program. My goal is to become a Head Softball Coach and to open up my own school of softball one day.

 

Anthony Sardon 

I graduated from Seattle University with a BA in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. I grew up in Sacramento, California and played soccer at one of the premier high school programs in the nation at Jesuit High School. I also played Rugby and was a member of the 1999 National High School Champion team at Jesuit as well. I was a member of the Men’s Soccer Northern California State Team and went on to play soccer at Seattle University. In 2004, our team went 22-0-1 and won the NCAA Division II National Championship. I have been involved in coaching soccer since I was twelve years old. I am currently a member of the coaching staff at Eastside Catholic High School as the head JV coach and assistant coach for the varsity. I want to become a college coach someday and plan to attend Law School to possibly become a sports agent. I was attracted to this program because of Professor Tripps’ engaging style of teaching and commitment to instruct via real world experiences. This exciting and fun environment of learning that is provided will most definitely prepare for any avenue with in sports. I am honored to be part of this program.

 

Kamala Saxton

There are two things I am most passionate about in life – education and sport. I’ve seen “the Curse” reversed, I’ve lost my voice serving as the Twelfth (wo)Man, and I’ve experienced firsthand, the power and magnitude of the World Cup …. All my life I have been a sports fan. I would have majored in Sports Administration in high school - if they let me. I grew up playing competitive softball, volleyball, basketball, and continued on to play softball at Menlo College where I received my undergraduate degree in Mass Communications in 1996. After spending over 10 wonderful years in education, philanthropy, and the private sector, I decided to set forth on a path that would allow me to combine my professional and managerial experiences with sport. I selected Seattle University as the stepping stone towards achieving my goal of working for a professional sports organization because of the leadership, expertise, and knowledge of Dr. Tripp’s and the caliber of staff that has been recruited from the sports industry to teach in this master program.

 

Chad Scheib

I’m an Eastern Washingtonian from Ephrata,WA with a love for baseball. Throughout my life I have been fortunate to be surrounded by positive influential people who share my same passion. A few of my family members were professional baseball players and through them and their baseball colleagues, I gained baseball wisdom. Eager to gain experiences of my own, I trained and became a starting pitcher for Ephrata High School. I then continued pitching for Big Bend Community College then transferred to Central Washington University where I earned an undergraduate degree in Law and Justice. After seven years of working as an Adult Probation Officer for Okanogan County, I decided to pursue my passion for baseball. I balanced my life and worked as a probation officer in conjunction with working as an assistant coach for Okanogan High School baseball team in Okanogan, WA. Four years I was involved in developing a solid 1A program with an appearance at the state tournament all four years. With aspirations to pursue a career in baseball, I moved to Seattle. Currently, I attend Seattle University MSAL program and coach high school baseball with The Bush School. My goals are to contribute my knowledge, to develop a solid baseball program, and to continue to gain invaluable coaching and baseball operational experience through this program. I look forward to utilizing my education as well as my past and present coaching experience to make new connections and network with peers and faculty in the field of sports.

 

Nick Schmidt

I graduated from Western Washington University in the winter of 2007 with a degree in Journalism-Public Relations. I have had a fascination and love of sports, especially college athletics, ever since I was young when I attended my first UW Husky football game (and I’ve been a die-hard dawg ever since!) While thinking of a post-college career, I discovered the field of Sports Management and the program here at Seattle University. Last year, I was lucky to have the opportunity to be hired as the Director of Basketball Operations for Western Washington University Men’s Basketball for part of the 2005-2006, and all of the 2006-2007 seasons (GO VIKINGS!). This allowed me to have direct hands on experience with what, or similar to, I hoped to do one day. What really attracted me about this program was the emphasis of hands on learning versus spending time in the classroom. I’m looking forward to using the education I get at Seattle University to eventually become the Athletic Director at Western or the UW.

 

Roheela Shah

I have been an avid sports fan since I can remember. I grew up watching all kinds of sports with my dad. At age six, I got my first horse. I tinkered around with riding for a few years and competed in my first show at age nine. My thirst for competition continued to grow. I joined the basketball and volleyball teams and continued to ride. Eventually I realized that to be the absolute best, I would need to devote all of my time to one sport only. It was an easy choice- riding. As an equestrian, I competed at the Youth Nationals (currently known as the Youth Worlds) for six years, from the time I was 13 to the time I was 18. After that, I competed at the Amateur Nationals and Worlds. Unfortunately, the time I could dedicate to competing lessened while I was at college. I attended the University of Washington, earning a degree in Law, Societies, and Justice, and a degree in Sociology. I decided that because I could not commit the same level of dedication to riding, I would stop competing. During my time as a competitor, I earned six national championships and numerous reserve championships. I continued to stay active in the equestrian world by coaching the younger children on our team. I coached for three years. Throughout that time, I coached three different students to three world championships and one reserve championship. Currently, I play in a beach volleyball league. It’s a great way for me to stay active and remain in competition. Sports are one of my life’s loves, my life’s passions. I am extremely excited to be part of the MSAL program because I know it will leave me with a greater sense of fulfillment.

 

Amber Shelley

I grew up in Illinois and graduated from Eureka College (Eureka, IL) in 2004 where I played DIII basketball and softball. Sports have always been a major part of my life and I discovered a passion for competition at a young age. As a tri-athlete in high school, I chose a college where I would have the opportunity to play two sports. At Eureka, I was a member of the 2002 softball team that got the first NCAA bid ever for the program. In October 2007, our team will be inducted into the EC Hall of Fame. I began my college career as a criminal justice major, but my passion for athletics and teaching led me to become a physical educator. Currently, I teach middle and high school physical education and coach high school girl's basketball and fastpitch at the JV level. My dream has always been to become a women's college basketball coach and I hope to use my administration degree to open up more opportunities to explore college athletic administration. When I moved to Seattle to be close to my sister, I began my search for a Master's program and heard about Dr. Tripps through colleagues. After meeting him and discussing the program, I knew SU was the perfect fit for me.

 

Megan Shreffler

From a young age, sports have acted as the fuel to empower my existence. Growing up in a small town south of Chicago, my parents encouraged me to stay active by engaging in sports and other extracurricular activities. Such involvement was meant as a means to occupy my time in a town with little to do. Consequently, it was my parents that introduced me to my first love: basketball. Little did I know that I would encounter other loves along the way including softball, volleyball, and track. Following high school, I attended Southern Illinois University where I received my Bachelor's in English Education. As a high school English teacher, I was fortunate o experience sports from another angle, as I coached basketball and softball. Once my competitive days of team sports were over, I found myself longing for a goal to strive towards. I found this goal in marathon running. My training, although rigorous, challenges my dedication on a daily basis. I find myself constantly pushing myself to the limit running, on average, 70 miles a week. I truly believe that my success in marathon running can be attributed to my dedication. It is this same dedication that transfers into my professional life allowing me to be successful. I am confident that it will eventually lead me to become a valuable component of a sports organization in the near future.

 

Michelle Skyles

I am returning for her second season as the top assistant on the Seattle Pacific University staff. I spent one season at Eastern Washington following a spectacular run of success at the prep level. I guided Jerome High School to the Idaho 4A championship and a perfect record of 25-0 in 2004. In my 10 seasons at the helm, Jerome compiled a record of 190-61, qualified for eight state tournaments and advanced to the championship game four times. Earlier, I coached two years at Burley (Id.). A longtime friend of head coach Julie van Beek, I was a teammate at Nampa Christian High School and, later, at Northwest Nazarene, where I earned a degree in physical education. I competed in track, soccer as well as basketball at NNU, setting a career record for three-point shooting percentage. I am a native of Nampa, Id., and now reside in the Greenwood neighborhood of Seattle.

 

Anjelica Sloan

I'm a native of Chicago and graduated from the University of Iowa in 1998 with a degree in English. I've worked primarily in academic publishing in Chicago, with a few dalliances in comedy writing, but had been searching for the proper career and academic path for quite some time. I grew up playing competitive soccer and tennis and always felt a strong appreciation for my involvement in these activities and grateful for the lessons and discipline sport instilled in me. It wasn't until I got involved in rock climbing a few years ago and began teaching climbing and coaching a youth team, that I realized involvement in sport and recreation was where my strengths and passion resided. I chose the MSAL program at Seattle University because of it's practicality and relevance of courses, experience of instructors, and the enthusiasm and dedication that Dr. Tripps commits to each of his students. My eventual goal is to work in community development within a player foundation or athletic organization and this program will give me the necessary tools for achieving this.

 

Misty Smith

I am a Washington native, growing up in Port Angeles on the Olympic Peninsula. Athletics growing up have been such an integral part of who I am today. There wasn’t one sport being played year round as I was playing one or two sports every season. The variety, balance, and skills learned through these sports helped shape and mold my persona. I always had a love of athletics and fitness, and I knew since middle school that I wanted to be a PE and Health teacher. I received my undergraduate education from Pacific Lutheran University with a BA in Physical Education and Health with teaching certification. I also had the opportunity to play Division III athletics in two sports playing basketball for a very successful program and competing in track and field. I spent the next six years living my childhood dream as a high school PE/Health teacher and coaching basketball and track. I never thought I would do anything else and then my career path took a change in direction as I got married and started a family. With the arrival of my first child, I officially retired from teaching and coaching. I took on a new “professional” role as a mother, and now being a mother of two I have taken several different career paths. I run a few small businesses in my “free time” and also work part time as a personal trainer at Mel Korum YMCA in Puyallup. My professional journey has taken many different paths and I look forward to enhancing my knowledge and preparing for additional opportunities in the business and culture of sport. When the time is right for my family I look forward to pursuing an additional career in this industry.

 

 Paul Sommerstein

I graduated in 2004 from the University of Washington with a degree in Communications. I'm a Seattle native, and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else...except for maybe in London until I started to miss baseball and (American) football. I'm a diehard Husky fan, and have been going to football and basketball games since I was a little kid. My true passion in life is sports, and ideally it's what I would like to do for the rest of my life. When I was 7 years old and realized that professional sports career was not in my future, I knew that there had to be another way to be involved, and that is exactly what I hope to get out of the MSAL program at Seattle U. I can't wait to begin my next adventure!

 

Chloe Spaith

I was born and raised in the foothills of Sonora, California. I grew up participating in every sport that came my way. I grew a strong love for the game of soccer, running, swimming, hiking, and winter sports. After High School I attended the University of Nevada Reno, in Reno NV, where I received my bachelors degree in Health Ecology and Gerontology and graduated in May 2007. Throughout college I worked for a number of promotional companies who hosted and promoted a variety of sporting events and premiers. After college I worked as a trainer in a gym, a local High School soccer coach, and for the UNR football team. I realized that I was incapable of getting away from sports, and decided to pursue a career in the sporting industry. With this degree I am hoping to fill in the gaps between the things I am passionate about and with what I don’t yet know. I am keeping an open mind to which path I might take, but so eager to see where I will end up.

 

Katie Street

I grew up in Federal Way, Washington and am excited to be back in the Northwest pursuing my graduate degree in sports administration and leadership. Although I was active in numerous sports as a kid (including thirteen years of Twin Lakes summer swim team!), my focus was golf and I attended Boise State University to pursue a degree in business economics and to experience the life of a student-athlete. Competing at the collegiate level was difficult, rewarding and well worth the commitment. I won a collegiate tournament, but more importantly I learned the value of being a student-athlete. In addition to my successes on the course, my biggest accomplishment as an undergraduate was being named a Top Ten Scholar of my graduating class and the 2007 Outstanding Graduate in the College of Business and Economics. While at Boise State my passion for sports increased even more when I had the opportunity to be my institution and conference's representative to the NCAA National Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. This experience led me to a year-long internship in governance at the NCAA national office and further solidified my love for college athletics. I am currently the graduate assistant for Compliance in the Seattle University Athletic Department as well as the graduate assistant for the Northwest Conference. I appreciate learning something every day - both through practical experiences in the office and my classroom education with fellow students.

 

 Paul Sweeney

I grew up in Seattle and have been an avid sports fan for as long as I can remember. I love to play, coach, and watch most sports. I am excited to be involved with the MSAL program because I believe it will take my enthusiasm for sport to the next level: the fulfillment of my goal to have a meaningful career in the field of sport. I’m not sure at this point, what my ultimate career objective is, but I am confident that the program will prepare me well for any endeavor that I pursue. My sports background includes interning at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, sports writing for the Daily Evergreen newspaper at Washington State University, and volunteering as a golf coach with the First Tee of Greater Seattle. Fun but controversial fact: I went to WSU but love the Washington Huskies.

 

Matthew Thomas

I grew up in a small suburb of the Twin Cities metro area, South St. Paul, Minnesota. I graduated from South St. Paul High School in 2003. At SSPHS I played football and hockey for the Packers. From there I attended the University of Minnesota-Morris, America’s best public liberal arts college. I wanted to play hockey in college, but took the quicker route choosing to play football as a strong safety for the UMM Cougars. During my final season our team won the 2006 conference championship, one of the many highlights of my athletic career. I graduated from UMM in May 2008 with a B.A. in Speech Communication and a B.A. in Sports Management. While in college I also had the wonderful opportunity to coach boys high school hockey in the great state of Minnesota, also known as the state of hockey. During undergrad, I worked full time in an adult group home and helped out as a student director of intramural athletics at UMM. I also interned in our athletic office and this lead to my desire to pursue graduate work. The MSAL program will allow me to pursue my goal of becoming a collegiate athletic director. Following graduation from SU, I would like to start my career at UMM, and raise the level of the athletic program to the level of the academic program. My primary goal as UMMs AD would be to start a men’s and women’s hockey team for the Cougars. I’m looking forward to working with the students and faculty of Seattle University and I am very grateful for this wonderful opportunity to continue my education.

 

Justin Triesch

I was born in Seattle, Washington and have lived in the area for my entire life. I have participated in organized sports since the age of 6 and still remain athletically active in one way or another to this day. Prior to joining the MSAL program I attended Washington State University in Pullman, Washington where I received two Bachelor's Degrees. One was in pre-law political science, and the other in criminal justice. After taking a short hiatus from my academic career, during which I worked at a golf course, I returned to school in January of 2007 when I entered the program at Seattle University. I was attracted to the MSAL program becuase it focuses on sport, the only consistent passion I have had throughout my life. I have found that the other students is the program are equally as motivated as myself and are willing to help one another succeed. I hope to somehow combine my undergraduate degrees with my studies here and move on to a career either with the NCAA or a collegiate athletic department. I have no doubt that this program will greatly improve the odds of me achieving this goal.
 

 

Jermaine Williams

I have recently completed my undergraduate degree at Concordia University in Portland, Oregon although; my roots stem from New York City. After meeting my wife 3 years ago while working for T-Mobile, I decided to finish my B.S in Business Administration here on the west coast. Since 2004, I have been very fortunate to take part of numerous opportunities in the world of sports. I interned with the Portland Beavers in the summer of 2005 and followed that with a season long internship with the Portland Trailblazers. Currently, I help assist a New York Yankees scout, Mike Thurman with scouting players from time to time. Earlier this year, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in Sport Administration. Through an in-depth research on what schools would be of possible interest to me, I found myself placing a call to Dr. Tripps office. After talking to him and hearing the passion and confidence of how the program would benefit me, I quickly felt this would be a great fit for me. I look forward to setting the groundwork for my life as I pursue a prominent place in the world of sports. Whether it’s as a player agent or as a front office executive on a professional team, my goal is to strive to be the best through sport leadership. Philippians 3:14.

 

Jesse Zumbro

I am originally from Spokane, WA and have been involved with sports all my life. I graduated from the University of Puget Sound in 2006 with degrees in Business Administration and History. During my time at UPS, I worked as the facility supervisor at the university's Fitness Center after a premature end to my baseball career. I am currently working in the sales department with Seattle SuperSonics and Storm. My fall and winter are consumed with football and basketball (Go Zags!), while my spring and summer revolve around baseball. I chose the MSAL program because I feel that it will help me succeed in mixing my passion with my career, and better ascertaining the direction that career will take.