Muhlenberg athletes are spending the summer of 2024 enjoying fantastic experiences on campus, in their hometowns, across the country and even around the world. Last week, Summer Check-In featured Spencer Hallagan, who interned with a group that owns and operates, among other franchises, the New York Rangers. Now we move elsewhere in the NHL Metropolitan Division for another men's lacrosse rising senior: Ben Falch, a finance major, wrote about his experience working with the New York Islanders.

My internship with the New York Islanders in the partnership management department has been an amazing experience.

Throughout my time here, I have been primarily involved in off-season partnership renewals and conducting research to identify potential new partners for the upcoming season. This involves detailed work on partnership recaps, where I break down each partner's contract to highlight all assets involved. These recaps are important for partners as they provide a clear view of how the partnership is structured, helping them decide whether to maintain, increase or decrease their assets for the next season.

I chose this internship for the summer because of my passion for the sports industry. After interning with Major League Soccer, I wanted to explore the dynamics of working directly for a team rather than a league. This experience has allowed me to understand the nuances and differences between the two. I was particularly drawn to the partnership management role because of my interest in how organizations collaborate to create mutually beneficial partnerships. This role offers a unique perspective on the business side of sports, highlighting the strategic planning and relationship-building involved.

One of the aspects I enjoy most about this internship is the opportunity to interact with people from various departments within the organization. This has given me a comprehensive understanding of how different segments of the team work together towards common goals. Additionally, being a part of the New York Islanders has been exciting, especially with the shared goal of winning the Stanley Cup. The camaraderie and team spirit within the organization are truly inspiring.

This internship is a significant stepping stone in my career. The connections I have made with professionals across the sports industry, from coordinators to executives, are invaluable. These relationships will undoubtedly be beneficial as I advance in my career. Moreover, the hands-on experience in partnership management has equipped me with practical skills and insights that are essential for anyone looking to thrive in the sports business sector.

Beyond the professional growth, I have also had the chance to engage in some fun activities. Working on partnership activations at UBS Arena during events such as WNBA games and concerts has been a highlight. These experiences have not only been enjoyable but have also provided me with a deeper understanding of how partnerships are activated in real-time during major events. Overall, my internship with the New York Islanders has been an incredible journey, blending professional development with memorable experiences.

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