Pacific Index

Building Pathways into the Sports World

With nearly one-third of the student population participating in a school-regulated sport at Pacific University, athletics are a significant part of the school’s identity. It follows that many students are driven to pursue careers found inside the realm of sports. 

And so, it only makes sense that last month a new student club was created: The Future Sports Leaders Club was created. The mission is simple: prepare Pacific students for careers in the sports industry. They aim to do so through education, engagement, experience, and connections. Members that participate are expected to gain both soft and hard skills, from leadership communication, to networking and career planning. 

Recently, the clubs first event they held took place in the UC where members arranged and organized a place to watch Game 4 of the World Series on the big screen. The relaxed atmosphere allowed students to enjoy the game and connect with others through their shared love of sports—and to share boxes of Cracker Jacks.

A few days later, club members also were able to take a guided tour of the Nike Headquarters in Beaverton. They had a connection through the club faculty advisor, Phil Busse. That connection was one of Nike’s official “storytellers,” one of only 35 guides authorized to share the company’s history and culture. Twelve students joined the visit, which started in Pre Hall named after the legendary runner Steve Prefontaine, where they learned about the early days of Nike, and the transformation they undertook to go from an ordinary sports company, to being the global leader in athletic innovation.

As the group continued to explore the North Campus, they received insights into Nike’s unique workplace culture; one that emphasizes the celebration of athletes who embody the brand’s spirit. Every building located in their headquarters is named after prominent people in Nike’s history. From the founders to legendary athletes across the world. The tour was able to stop at buildings dedicated to LeBron James, Tiger Woods, and Serena Wlliams; each stop showcasing storytelling that reflected the athletic journeys of these people, and the impact it had on the company’s identity.

The club also has hosted two luncheons with regional sport professionals: Michele Barber, Executive Director of the Hillsboro Rush Soccer Club, and K.L. Wombacher, General Manager of the Hillsboro Hops.