How it unfolded
On February 10, 2026, the atmosphere in San Francisco, California, was electric as Super Bowl LX took center stage. This event not only showcased the pinnacle of American football but also provided a unique opportunity for students from Maryville University’s Rawlings Sport Business Management program. Just before the game, 14 students and two faculty members were preparing to engage with fans and sponsors at the NFL’s premier fan fest held at the Moscone Center.
The students partnered with Fierce Staffing, gaining hands-on experience that would be invaluable for their future careers in sports management. They played a crucial role in supporting major sponsors such as FedEx, Snickers, and Roblox, ensuring that the event ran smoothly and that attendees had a memorable experience. Marcie Lapehn, a faculty member, noted, “Students from the Rawlings Sport Business Management program helped bring the first-ever NFL Culture Club to life, welcoming fans, executives, and VIPs with professionalism, polish, and poise.”
As the day progressed, the students were immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the Super Bowl, learning about event management and sponsorship activation. Daniel Schmidt, another faculty member, remarked, “Events like the Super Bowl provide dynamic learning opportunities.” This hands-on experience is crucial for students as they prepare to enter a competitive job market.
Meanwhile, significant developments were unfolding in the world of women’s basketball. The Connecticut Sun, a WNBA team, was sold to the Fertitta family for $300 million. This sale marks a pivotal moment for the franchise, which originally began as the Orlando Miracle from 1999 to 2002 before relocating to Connecticut in 2003. The Fertitta family’s acquisition signals a new chapter for the team, which will relocate to Houston for the 2027 season.
The Connecticut Sun’s move to Houston is particularly notable given the historical context of the Houston Comets, who dominated the WNBA by winning four consecutive titles from 1997 to 2000. The relocation not only revives the franchise’s presence in Houston but also aims to rekindle the excitement around women’s professional basketball in the area.
As the Super Bowl festivities continued, the students from Maryville University reflected on their experiences and the impact of their involvement. Brittane Cooper, a faculty member, expressed her appreciation for the collaboration, stating, “Working with Jason and his team at the Rawlings Sport Business Management Program at Maryville University has been a pleasure. His partnership and support made a meaningful impact.”
Currently, the students are returning to their studies, enriched by their experiences at one of the largest sporting events in the world. The Connecticut Sun’s transition to Houston is set to reshape the landscape of women’s basketball, and the involvement of Maryville University students at the Super Bowl highlights the importance of practical experience in sports management.
This sequence of events matters significantly for those involved, as it not only provides students with essential skills and networking opportunities but also signals a shift in the WNBA landscape with the Connecticut Sun’s relocation. As the sports world continues to evolve, the experiences gained by these students and the changes within the league will undoubtedly have lasting impacts.
