Partners in Sports Caps Off Successful Year

by Rebekah Goode
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Neyland Stadium at sunrise

Partners in Sports, the student organization for Sport Management majors at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (CEHHS) capped off a successful year for 2021-2022. Over the course of the academic year, Partners in Sports was involved in several high-profile activities both on and off campus.

However, one of the highest accolades came from Sport Business International, which ranked CEHHS’ Sport Management Master’s program 16th in the United States and 29th in the world. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in London, Sports Business International provides analysis, data and news regarding the sports industry. The annual Postgraduate Rankings Report is considered one of the most prestigious lists in Sports Management academic programs worldwide and could be compared to the annual U.S. News & World Report college rankings.

Using more than 20 measurement evaluations, including class size, diversity, job placement, and career value, the report ranks graduate programs in spots management on both national and global scales. CEHHS’ Sports Management Master’s program’s placement as a Top-20 program in the United States and a Top-30 program globally, demonstrates a strong dedication to student success.

Robin Hardin

Rob Hardin

“We had a great year of professional development opportunities for our students,” said Rob Hardin, professor in CEHHS’ Sports Management Program. “Students had the opportunity to assist with events ranging from Southeastern Conference championship events to youth soccer camps.”

Some of the experiential learning opportunities for students included:

  • The Partners in Sports Golf Tournament, managing an outing for nearly 90 golfers.
  • Greg Lemond Lecture, a conversation with the three-time Tour de France Campion, attended by over 200 at the Student Union on Campus.
  • NIL Panel Discussion, to learn about the impacts of college athletes to monetize their name, image and likeness.
  • Diversity Roundtable, Women’s Roundtable and Success in Sport Panel, each addressing the challenges and issues faced in today’s sports industry and ways to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion for success in the industry.

“These experiential learning opportunities are vital for the professional development of our students as well as providing opportunities to build their professional networks,” Hardin said.

Partners in Sports is comprised on nearly 100 members including students, faculty, and staff. More information about the organization and its mission can be found here.