By Lydia Roop
English ’24

Eric Koncz says he gained invaluable insights into genuine management throughout his
4 years of varsity basketball at Tri-State (now Trine) University.

That management talent carried on into the 2005 sports activities administration graduate’s skilled
profession. Today, he serves because the Assistant Director of Operations and Sustainability
at State Farm Stadium, dwelling of the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals.

Trine’s influence on private {and professional} progress

When Eric attended Tri-State, he secured an internship with the Cleveland Cavaliers
within the NBA.

“During my time there, I developed a deep passion for the industry,” Eric stated. His
inaugural occasion was working at an Eric Clapton live performance, the place he was in a position to shake
the well-renowned guitarist’s hand as he made his method to the stage. 

“As an ardent fan, this expertise immediately solidified my need to pursue a profession
on this discipline,” Eric stated. “I turned enamored with the dynamic, ever-evolving atmosphere
that the trade gives. Regardless of the size of the occasion, I persistently encountered
contemporary alternatives for discovery and studying.”

“Tri-State played a pivotal role in my personal and professional development,” Eric
reminisced. “The distinctive professors there outfitted me with a complete understanding
of assorted sides of the enterprise world. I’d be remiss if I did not point out the invaluable
friendships I cast throughout my time there, which profoundly impacted my life.”

Eric’s sports activities administration success

After graduating, Eric returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers as a member of the constructing
crew. Later on, he accepted a supervisory place at State Farm Stadium in Glendale,
Arizona. Over the previous 16 years, he has navigated the Operations Department and ascended
to his present function.

“I play an integral half within the planning and execution of a big selection of occasions hosted
right here, together with the administration of three Super Bowls, quite a few College Football Championships,
and the upcoming internet hosting of our second NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four,” Eric stated.

In addition to his long-term profession objective of working his personal venue, Eric is “deeply
dedicated to supporting and empowering others to realize their full potential, each
of their skilled endeavors and of their private lives.”

“One of essentially the most rewarding sides of my function is the chance to mentor and information
people on their skilled journeys on this trade,” Eric shared. “As I progress
in my profession, my major goal is to help and uplift as many people as
I can.”

“The most vital lesson I’ve gained from my school expertise and profession is
the paramount significance of connections. Dedicate ample time to networking with trade
professionals, be inquisitive and keep a powerful dedication to studying. Adaptability
is an important talent as you may encounter numerous people all through your life.”