Dallas Trinity FC & TWU Join to Expand Sports Career Pathways

The new sports management program at Texas Woman’s University (TWU) has secured industry backing through a association with Dallas Trinity FC (DTFC) before its expected launch this autumn.

The association between Merrilee Alexander Kick College of Business and Entrepreneurship and the professional female soccer team seeks to new create career paths and industry experience for students.

Through the association, the TWU students will be given internship opportunities and mentoring experience in the sports industry. Additionally, career advice and mentoring for the DTFC players will be provided through the initiative.

Key Highlights:

• TWU and Dallas Trinity FC launch a strategic sports business partnership
• Nine internships give TWU students hands-on experience at Dallas Trinity FC
• Partnership expands mentorship and career pathways for students and players

“Great partnerships, like great teams, are built on shared goals. At the MAK College, we believe the best business education happens at the intersection of the classroom and the real world — and this partnership brings that belief to life,” said Rama Yelkur, executive dean of the MAK College. “Dallas Trinity FC and the MAK College are showing what's possible when a university and a professional sports franchise commit to developing talent together, in the classroom and on the field.”

In this regard, DTFC will offer nine internship positions to TWU sports management students who will help them earn credits throughout the academic year through fall, spring, and summer semesters. The internships will allow the students to have practical exposure in all the major aspects of business, including strategic partnerships, marketing, operations, and events.

On the other hand, TWU will provide DTFC players with study material along with information about their careers and academic programs. Additionally, the university will also help design a mentorship program that will connect the players with the career professionals.

Charlie Neil, president and founder of DTFC commented, “TWU has long been a leader in preparing women to lead, which makes this partnership especially meaningful for the club.”

“By giving students hands-on experience within a professional sports organization while helping our players prepare for life beyond the pitch, we are creating opportunities that can make an impact well beyond a single season.”

The joint venture will expand on the mentorship and leadership development programs with further backing from the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at TWU. The program will provide an opportunity for business students and DTFC players to interact via events hosted by TWU’s Denton Campus and the International Women’s Forum.

Pushkala Raman, senior associate dean of academic affairs for the MAK College shared her thoughts on the importance of connecting academic learning with practical industry exposure. “We are thrilled to team up with Dallas Trinity FC for a partnership that directly serves the next generation of sports industry professionals.” “With the launch of our B.B.A. in sports management program this fall, our students are gaining an invaluable bridge to professional athletics. This collaboration elevates both our academic offerings and our commitment to student success.”