Grand Rapids Griffins Game Day Internship
Adam
Experience Information
Employer: Grand Rapids Griffins/Rise Organization
Job Title: Game Day Internship
Major: Sport Management
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
The Grand Rapids Griffins are a part of the American Hockey League and are the primary affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings of the NHL. The Griffins play their home games at the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, MI and see an average of 7,500 fans attend each home game. The Griffins employ about 60 full time staff members along with any part-time/seasonal positions.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Worked mainly with the game day ticket sales team to assist in the box office. Helped with areas such as the Will Call line for anyone picking up tickets left for them during game days, the Ticket Resolution line for anyone who is having issues using their mobile tickets, and the Ticket Selling line for any walk-up ticket purchases. Throughout the game, our team also contributed with aiding the promotions team by participating in the T-shirt toss and Throw for Dough promotions which positively impacted fan experience.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Gained knowledge of the ticket sale process and how professional sports teams utilize different programs to complete this process. Also, my customer service and problem-solving skills have improved through having to handle customer issues with patience in high-pressure situation.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part about this internship was seeing all the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into creating the atmosphere of a professional sporting event. Being able to see fans enjoy themselves at a game that you helped create it a very enjoyable experience.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience has given me more knowledge of the ticket selling aspect of the front office. Prior to this internship, I was not too favorable with working in sales based on prior experience that I have had. However, after starting this internship I am more open to working in sales and do find assisting fans with the ticket sales process enjoyable.
Internship Format
In Person