“How I Got Here” is an ongoing series that speaks with people who work in the world of soccer. We talk with people at all levels who are often behind the scenes but whose contributions are crucial and critical to their club, team, or organization. Several different kinds of jobs exist within the soccer world outside of the ones we often associate with the sport — player, coach, athletic trainer, and so on.
We wanted to know what people do and how they got their jobs, as well as how they keep up with trends in the industry and what advice they have for those who may be considering a career in soccer or sports. Are there commonalities? Sure, internships for one. But not everyone, most if we’re honest, can’t work for free or live on the low wages that some internships pay. The sports and entertainment industries are known for overworking and not paying for internship “opportunities.” We’ll try to address this issue in future installments of this series and offer alternatives to unpaid internships.
Another commonality is going for it. What has become clear in speaking with people who work in soccer is how important it is to figure out what you want to do and then start on a path toward reaching that goal. Saying yes. Taking initiative. Being flexible.
We start off the series by speaking with a staffer from each team in the National Women’s Soccer League.
NWSL
Anna Kane
Chicago Red Stars
Carlos Martinez-Gloria
Houston Dash
Morgan Brown
North Carolina Courage
Brynn Sebring
OL Reign
Jackie Maynard
Orlando Pride
Morgan Lunz
Portland Thorns FC
Julie Evans
Sky Blue FC
Megan van Dyk
Utah Royals FC
Jordan Small
Washington Spirit