Your Project, Our Classroom

Texas A&M University is proud to partner with sport organizations across the globe. With this alliance and investment, Texas A&M University can provide our Capstone Experience students with hands-on and practical experience. By working with our students, this real-world experience impacts their lives as leaders and future employees in the Sport Management field.

Cameron Patek, 2025

Cameron Patek

My Capstone Experience- Business Project was working with Athletes in Action, specifically their new 65,000 square ft. facility, the Wooden Family Fieldhouse. I was tasked with developing a program plan, researching competing facilities, reviewing high school, AAU, and club schedules, developing a marketing plan, and creating an event to be run in the Spring of 2025. My supervisor, Mr. Steve Harrell, was invaluable during this project, teaching me many things and giving me quality feedback on my work. Overall, I wouldn't change anything about this experience, and I'm blessed I could be a part of it. 

Words of Wisdom

  • Always ask questions
  • Remember to have fun
  • Adapt and overcome when things don't go as planned.

Jake Wigginton, 2025

Jake Wigginton

I partnered with Athletes in Action for my Culminating Experience - Business Project. I was tasked with creating a business plan for their sports complex and how to best utilize the space. I created a yearly calendar, marketing strategies, budgets, and event write-ups. I learned a lot about time management and how to conduct proper research. I enjoyed working on this project because I am fascinated by my sports facilities, and this facility was one of the best I have ever seen. 

Words of Wisdom

  • Manage your time wisely and get ahead when you can. You will get out of this project what you put into it.

Grant Glasson, SPMT 2023

Grant Glasson

Working on this project for Athletes in Action sports facilities has been a privilege. Through my collaboration with AIA, I have identified areas for improvement and provided recommendations that will enhance the overall experience for your athletes, visitors, and staff. Working on this project has further enhanced my knowledge of my career path in working in sport facility management. I have been blessed to work with such an awesome group of people.

Words of Wisdom

  • This project has taught me to always approach any job or opportunity with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Listen to the needs and goals of the people I am working with and work collaboratively to develop solutions that meet those needs.
  • Secondly, communication is key. I have learned that communication is very important with the organization and team members to ensure everyone is on the same page and that progress is being made toward the end goal.
  • Lastly, this project has taught me not to be afraid to think outside the box and offer innovative solutions. A fresh perspective and unique ideas can often lead to groundbreaking solutions that can significantly impact an organization.

Nathaniel Evans, SMPT 2024

Nathaniel Evans

For my experience, I started off working with David Kensinger learning about marketing at Athletes in Action's sports complex and retreat center. After a few weeks of doing this, I was moved to help Matt Dunn market the Keys to Life breakfast at the Final Four in Houston. For this event, I did a lot of grassroots marketing by creating databases and sending emails to universities, media outlets, and churches. I was also given the great opportunity of going to the event in person, where I helped with operations. This experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity where I was able to grow and learn with real hands-on work.

Words of Wisdom

  • Be flexible always. 
  • Take the experience one day at a time. 
  • Ask lots of questions.