Smithtown Students Get an Inside Look at the Business of Hockey

Students from Smithtown High School East and West recently got an inside look at the business of professional hockey during New York Islanders Sports Business Day at UBS Arena in Elmont.

The educational experience gave students an opportunity to explore the many career paths available in the sports industry while learning how a professional hockey organization operates behind the scenes.

Students enrolled in the sports marketing classes taught by Mr. Hennings and Mr. Costello participated in the event through the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) business department. During their visit, they explored exclusive areas of UBS Arena, including the UBS Club, Dime Club and Hyundai Club, gaining a firsthand look at some of the premium spaces that help shape the fan experience.

The students also heard from Islanders executives working in several key areas of the organization, including sales, marketing, social media and public relations. These presentations offered insight into the work that goes into promoting a professional sports team, connecting with fans and building a successful business around the game.

For students interested in pursuing careers in sports, the opportunity to hear directly from industry professionals provided a valuable connection between what they learn in the classroom and how those skills are applied in the real world.

Sports marketing involves much more than what happens on the ice. From advertising and social media campaigns to ticket sales and public relations, professional teams rely on a wide range of talented individuals to keep their organizations running smoothly. Events like Sports Business Day help students better understand those opportunities and begin thinking about their own career goals.

The visit also gave students a chance to network with peers from other schools across Long Island, exchange ideas and make connections with others who share an interest in the sports industry.

As an added bonus, attendees received a ticket to an upcoming Islanders game and enjoyed a special viewing of the team’s optional skate, giving them an extra taste of the professional hockey experience.

For Smithtown East and West students, the visit was an exciting opportunity to see how their interest in sports could translate into future careers.