Dayton, OH — Sept 4, 2025 — A group of 18 high school marketing students recently had the unique opportunity to attend a Sports Marketing Conference hosted by the Dayton Dragons, where they explored the inner workings of the professional sports industry.
During the event, students learned directly from Dragons staff and industry professionals about the wide range of careers and concepts that make up sports management. Sessions highlighted key areas including marketing strategies, ticket sales, game-day operations, and sports broadcasting, giving students an inside look at how these departments work together to deliver an unforgettable fan experience.
“This was an incredible opportunity for our students to see how the concepts they learn in class are applied in a real-world setting,” said Robin Holweger, the school’s Marketing CTC and Sports & Entertainment Marketing Instructor. “Hearing from professionals who live and breathe sports management every day inspired our students to think about future careers in the field.”
In addition to gaining knowledge, students participated in interactive discussions, explored case studies, and asked questions about the challenges and innovations in sports marketing and received a stadium tour. The experience not only broadened their understanding of business concepts but also gave them valuable networking opportunities with leaders in the industry.
The Dayton Dragons, a Class A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, are widely recognized for their strong community engagement and successful approach to fan experience. For the students, attending this conference was more than just a field trip—it was a chance to see how passion for sports connects with the power of marketing, sales, and entertainment.
“We are grateful to the Dayton Dragons for opening their doors and sharing their expertise with our students,” added Robin Holweger, Marketing CTC Instructor. “This experience will help them as they continue developing their skills in marketing and preparing for future college and career opportunities.”