Precious Bross, a rising junior softball player for the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, is experiencing the sports world from a new angle. Through the Beyond Sports Summer Internship and Professional Development ProgramBross is immersing herself in the marketing aspects of athletics, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the operations that make game days possible.
As a marketing major from Columbia, South Carolina, Bross is no stranger to the sports industry. However, her internship with the Gamecock marketing team has opened her eyes to the intricate details that go into every event. From preparing for fan festivals to managing ticketing systems, Bross is absorbing every bit of knowledge she can.
From the Diamond to the Marketing Office
Bross’s transition from the softball diamond to the marketing office has been seamless. Her experience as a player has given her a unique perspective on game day operations. “When softball was done, baseball was still playing for a little bit, so I had the chance to help out with some of the baseball game days,” Bross said. This hands-on experience has allowed her to see the precision and timing required to manage televised games.
The preparation that goes into each game has been a revelation for Bross. “Seeing how much preparation they have to have for each game surprised me a little bit,” she admitted. Scripts and plans are often finalized months in advance, showcasing the foresight and organization required in sports marketing. Bross has found the experience both enlightening and enjoyable, appreciating the way events come together and how the team handles any unexpected issues.
Beyond Sports: A Path to Professional Development
The Beyond Sports program is designed to provide student-athletes with meaningful professional development and work experience. For Bross, this internship has confirmed her interest in a career within the sports industry. “I like to talk to people, and I’m very outgoing,” Bross said. “I like being creative. Just confirming that this is something I’m interested in has been helpful and having an idea of what I’m getting into is great.”
The program has also given Bross a sense of direction and support. “The people that work with Beyond Sports, they’re very invested in my future and made it easy to get placed here,” she said. This support has been instrumental in her growth and development as she prepares for life after college.
A Lifelong Love for Softball
Bross’s journey in softball began in the fourth grade, and she has been passionate about the sport ever since. “I like that there is always a challenge,” Bross said. “Softball is always pushing you. Some days you feel amazing, and some days you can fall off a little bit. There are so many parts of the game I had to learn about.”
Despite missing a significant portion of last season due to injury, Bross is excited to be back in her hometown and competing with the Gamecocks. She looks forward to contributing to the team’s success and continuing her development as a player and leader.
As Bross continues her journey in the Beyond Sports program, she is not only gaining valuable experience in sports marketing but also deepening her love for the game. Her story serves as an inspiration for other student-athletes looking to explore careers in the sports industry.
