What are the responsibilities and job description for the Business Development Internship position at Aberdeen Wings?
Aberdeen Wings – Business Internship
Location: Aberdeen, South Dakota
Department: Business Operations & Marketing
Reports To: President
Department: Business Operations & Marketing
Reports To: President
Organization Overview:
The Aberdeen Wings are a proud member of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), dedicated to developing athletes on and off the ice while fostering a strong connection with the Aberdeen community. The Wings are committed to creating an exciting, family-friendly game-day experience and giving back to the community that supports us.
The Aberdeen Wings are a proud member of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), dedicated to developing athletes on and off the ice while fostering a strong connection with the Aberdeen community. The Wings are committed to creating an exciting, family-friendly game-day experience and giving back to the community that supports us.
Position Summary:
The Aberdeen Wings are seeking motivated, energetic, and community-minded individuals to join our front office as Business Interns. This internship provides hands-on experience in sports business operations, including sponsorship development, ticket sales, promotions, advertising, and community engagement. Interns will play a vital role in strengthening relationships with fans, partners, and local organizations while learning the business side of a successful junior hockey franchise.
Key Responsibilities:
Sponsorships & Partnerships
- Assist in identifying and securing local and regional sponsorship opportunities.
- Support the fulfillment of sponsor contracts, including signage, digital ads, and in-game promotions.
- Help maintain strong relationships with existing corporate partners through consistent communication and service.
Season Tickets & Sales
- Support initiatives for season tickets, group packages, and single-game promotions.
- Assist in managing customer databases and tracking sales leads.
- Participate in fan outreach and community events to promote ticket sales.
Promotions & Advertising
- Brainstorm and execute creative in-game promotions and fan engagement activities.
- Assist with creating marketing materials, digital graphics, and advertisements.
- Coordinate with local media outlets and community partners for promotional exposure.
Community Involvement & Public Relations
- Represent the Aberdeen Wings at community events, charity fundraisers, and youth hockey programs.
- Assist in coordinating player appearances, school visits, and outreach initiatives.
- Help develop partnerships with local non-profits and community organizations.
- Serve as an ambassador for the Wings’ mission of giving back and building community pride.
Game Day Operations
- Participate in setup and execution of all home games, including sponsor activations and fan experience activities.
- Assist with merchandise sales, raffles, and promotional giveaways.
- Provide exceptional customer service to fans, sponsors, and special guests.
Qualifications:
- Current college student pursuing a degree in Business, Marketing, Sports Management, Communications, or a related field.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Passion for community engagement and sports marketing.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Positive attitude, creativity, and professionalism.
- Willingness to work evenings and weekends during home games and events.
Internship Details:
- Duration: Seasonal (August – May, depending on the team schedule)
- Compensation: Unpaid or for academic credit (dependent on school policy)
- Hours: Flexible, with emphasis on game days, community events, and promotions
To Apply:
Submit your résumé and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the internship to:
Aaron Smith, asmith@aberdeenwings.com
Submit your résumé and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the internship to:
Aaron Smith, asmith@aberdeenwings.com
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.