1. Tell Us About Yourself and Your Current Role
I am 25 and I am from Philly, but I currently live in Washington D.C. I received a partial football scholarship to Robert Morris University in 2010 where I played football my freshmen and sophomore year. Thereafter, I transferred to Morgan State University in 2012, where I walked on the football team and earned a full athletic scholarship. My senior year we won the MEAC conference championship. I graduated from Morgan State in 2015 with my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and earned a Master’s Degree in Sports Management with a concentration in Athletic Administration from Southern New Hampshire University in 2017.
Prior to landing my current position at the NFLPA, In September 2016 I interned in the Executive Department of the NFLPA where I worked on various tasks and projects for the Executive Director and assisted in the planning of NFLPA Collegiate Bowl. After my internship ended in December 2016, I was offered a temporary accounting position in the Finance department of the NFLPA where I provided data analysis, research support, and support to the Finance team.
In my current role as Coordinator of Player Services at NFL Players Inc., licensing and marketing subsidiary of the NFLPAI help connect companies with players by facilitating endorsement deals, appearance logistics, and matching company business goals with player personalities and brand attributes.
2. Where do you see yourself in 15 years/dream job?
I’m not exactly sure I have a dream job. I believe dreams are adjustable and largely dependent upon what I achieve. As my dreams change, and my achievements elevate, my ideal job will too. I have aspirations and goals. Short-term: I would like to expound on my knowledge of the sports-business industry. Long-term: I’d like to remain in a space that allows me to connect brands with athletes, and I welcome any opportunity or occupation that would allow me to do so. Also, I’d like to own an NFL franchise one day.
3. Who is your mentor at this point?
My Grandfather, my Dad, and Clay Dade are my three major mentors.
My Grandfather and my Dad boost my morale – they are my biggest supporters. They’ve always been in my corner supporting me every step of the way. I wouldn’t be the man I am today if it were not for them. Clay Dade has been a valuable education source. Mr. Dade is an NBA Sports Executive and the CEO of Fab Frosh Basketball Camp. I met him at an airport in Baltimore several years ago and we instantly cliqued. I told him my dream, and he told me I can help you get there – it’s been a journey ever since.
Additionally, there are several people at the NFLPA who have contributed to my success. Teri Patterson-Smith, our Deputy Managing Director, Carl Francis, our Director of Communications, George Hegamin, Director of Scholastic Outreach, and Dior Ginyard, one of our Player Affairs Managers.
4. What’s one thing you’ve learned early in your career that you didn’t know until you started working in the industry?
This job helped me find my passion. Before I started working at the NFLPA, I knew I wanted to work in the sports industry in some capacity, but now that I’m almost a year in at my current job, I know that I am passionate about connecting brands with athletes.
5. What does winning the Rising 25 Award mean to you?
I feel honored! It is surreal to know that I’m a part of an elite group of individuals who are making extraordinary strides in their careers. Thank you to Front Office Sports and the judges for selecting me amongst all the nominees. I’m extremely humbled and appreciative.
