Students Gain Hands-On Experience and Explore Careers with the ValleyCats
Students in Colleen Nieminski’s Sports Management class recently had the exciting opportunity to visit the Tri-City ValleyCats facility at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in Troy, NY.
The field trip offered students a unique perspective that went beyond the game of baseball. They gained firsthand insight into how a professional sports organization operates, learning about the many facets of the ValleyCats organization, including management, player relations, ticket sales, community relations, concessions, merchandise, marketing, and more.
Upon arrival, General Manager Matt Callahan provided an engaging overview of the team and its history. Merchandise and Community Relations Manager Miranda Seacord then led the group on a VIP tour of the stadium, giving students a deeper understanding of the various ticketing options and strategies the ValleyCats use to fill seats for every home game.
Students also had the opportunity to visit the clubhouse with Clubhouse Manager Ryan Alderdice – affectionately known as the “dad of the players” – who shared what goes on behind the scenes and offered insight into his day-to-day responsibilities.
The trip concluded with lunch in the Diamond Club Suite, where students enjoyed pizza together. Before departing, each student received a ValleyCats hat as a memento of the experience.
