Game Night Intern
Jason
Experience Information
Employer: Grand Rapids Griffins
Job Title: Game Night Intern
Major: Sport Management
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
The Grand Rapids Griffins are the AHL Affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings. They have 40+ plus front office employees and employee around 15 to 20 interns every season ranging from Game Presentation to Inside Sales positions. The Griffins provide an all ages atmosphere where anyone from college kids to families can have a great time.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
"Work the Griffins box office selling tickets through the AXS ticketing software, redeeming vouchers, and assisting fans to provide them a great experience while using exemplary customer service skills. "Reconcile cash drawer after the box office closes. "Participate in in-game promos and assist staff & customers in any way.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Some knowledge I gained was the inner workings of a typical game and all that goes on behind the scenes such as what goes into in-game promotions, interacting with fans, ticketing software, etc. We learned how to use the Star Tickets ticketing software in the box office and setting up and tearing down the box office. Some days we helped out group sales with tasks before games and learned what they do regularly as well. Skills included interpersonal skills, time management skills, taking initiative, and leadership skills.
Favorite Part of the Experience
It was first time working in professional sports so it was nice to finally see all that goes into making the games an enjoyable time for fans. I also enjoyed meeting my co-workers and creating new connections in the Griffins front office. Finally I would have to say being able to watch all the games was a very enjoyable part of the internship.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This internship helped give me some direction in the sports industry, particularly pushing me down the path of ticket sales or operations. Being able to work with customers and developing those relationships with fans who share the same passions you do is something I could see myself doing in the long run. Working for the Griffins was a good start for this by working and meeting both season ticket holders and casual fans regularly.