If I could describe working for a sports commission in one word It would have to be, AWESOME.  Working in this industry I have been exposed to different and unique sports that I would have never even watched, let alone worked.  From diving trials to BMX race tracks, to paddle boarding, I have gained first hand experience in a variety of sporting events.

My favorite event that I got to work at, besides the Rainier LAX Cup, was the triathlon.  There was so much that had went into planning and organizing the 130 participant race that I am glad I wasn't in charge of doing anything major for it other than show up.  The triathlon basically encompassed three sporting events into one, swimming, cycling and long distance running.  Since this event was hosted by the city it allowed us to block off major roads for our course, with the help of the police department.  During the cycling portion of the race I was in charge of directing the cyclists, going at high speeds on a busy road, onto the next leg of the race.  It was crazy to see these participants switch from their wet-suits to bike gear, then to running shoes.  Working this event I have defianantly gained an appreciation for people/athletes who partake in tries. They look excruciatingly exhausting, but very rewarding after accomplishing I am sure.

Though being out of the office and working on event days is a lot of fun, the work that takes place in the office starts to get tedious, but determines the success of the event.  Before we can put on any tournament or competition, there is always a pre-event meeting where our staff comes together and brainstorms the main purpose of the event we are hosting, along with other logistical measures such as budget & marketing.  Once the duties are delegated, its go time.  I can't even begin to count how many emails I sent and phone calls I made over the course of my internship.  It makes me wonder how anything was ever accomplished before the internet and technology.  Staring at a computer for 7 hours at a time some days does get really dry, but once you finally get to see all the hard work you put in on the event day, it is well worth it.  

It is hard to believe that my internship is coming to an end, but I am looking forward to continuing my journey in the sports world through coaching while I finish my last semester of school.  Working for Tacoma Sports I have gained a better understanding of the impact that sports have on communities, along with how much work it takes to coordinate major sporting events.  I feel confidant in what I have learned at TSSS to coordinate and execute my own sporting event from start to finish.  And hopefully in the future, I will be able to do just that =).    





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