MORRIS COUNTY — Nine communication students from County College of Morris (CCM) recently travelled to Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia to take part in the Business of Sports Media and Marketing night, hosted by the Phillies and Temple University’s Fox School of Business.
The students’ participation in the event was part of CCM’s growing initiative to provide students with experiential learning opportunities, including networking and hands-on experiences, internships and apprenticeships.
The night began with a moderated question and answer session that featured executives from the Phillies, NBC Sports, NBC10 and Telemundo62. Phillies pitcher, David Robertson, also made an appearance to discuss his college and major league experience. The floor was then open to the audience, and two CCM students took the opportunity to ask questions.
After introducing himself, Christian Didea, of Chester, asked Robertson what his experience was like pitching for the Phillies after having played for the Yankees for six years. Didea was able to interview the pitcher in a professional setting, exercising the skills he has learned in class.
Lloyd Wilson, of East Orange, directed a question to the panel, asking for advice for aspiring sports commentators. After the session was over, Michael Harris, vice president of Marketing and New Media for the Phillies, talked with Wilson about Wilson’s CCM-sports talk show, “Lounging with Lloyd.” Harris then offered to watch the show and provide Wilson with some advice for future episodes.
“It was a huge honor to be a part of the Business of Sports Media and Marketing night,” Wilson said. “Being able to share my information with Mr. Harris was a moment I will never forget, and I plan on networking with the organization in the future.”
Seven of the students on the fieldtrip were part of CCM’s Sports Journalism course –anew communication class, taught by Professor John Soltes, that teaches students how to report, write and edit sports-centered journalism articles.
During the networking hour, students were also able to hold the Phillies 1980 and 2008 World Series trophies, take a picture with Gary “Sarge” Matthews – the 1983 National League Championship Series MVP and Phillies Ambassador – and meet with personnel from various departments such as those who spearhead the Phillies intern program. After the networking session was finished, the students were able to watch the Phillies play against the New York Mets.
The Sports Journalism course will be offered again during the 2019-2020 academic year. To learn more about the Communication Program at CCM by clicking here.
