Kenzie McHale: Elevate

A 2024 graduate of Saint Joseph’s University, Kenzie McHale has already hit the ground running with a career in the sports marketing industry. Immersing herself in multiple internships during college and being a former high school student-athlete, this world was something that Kenzie knew she would excel in. I had the opportunity to gain insight and advice from Kenzie for girls looking to jumpstart their careers in sports. 

Kenzie’s Story:

A little bit about yourself, your background, and how you got into sports.

Kenzie graduated from St. Joe’s last year where she studied Marketing and Business Analytics and Intelligence. Before coming to SJU, she was an athlete in High School which is where her passion for sports came from. Because of this, she knew this was an industry she wanted to pursue. “After my freshman year at SJU, I landed my first internship as a Media Intern for the Brewster Whitecaps, a collegiate summer baseball team in the Cape Cod Baseball League. That experience solidified my love for the business side of sports. From there, I

interned at New England Sports Network (NESN) the following summer, supporting the Marketing team, and participated in the MLB On Deck sales training program. After graduating, I joined Elevate as a Marketing Coordinator.” Kenzie now works full time for Elevate in their New York office where she has the opportunity to attend many different events and get involved even deeper within the world of sports.

What are some of your specific roles and responsibilities?

Kenzie works at an agency and wears a lot of different hats, while managing different accounts and clients. “As Marketing Coordinator, I specialize in email, web, and paid social marketing while managing client relationships across multiple projects. Working at an agency means wearing many hats, which has helped me to develop a very dynamic skill set in a short time.” She feels that she has learned a lot from those that she works with and feels grateful for the opportunities she has been given. “I’m grateful to be mentored by industry leaders whose experiences span all corners of the sports world.”

What’s something you have found challenging since beginning working in sports?

The evolution and fast-pace of the sports industry is something that keeps Kenzie on her toes. Trends are changing, fan engagement is shifting, and it requires her to adapt to any task. “This has required me to be highly adaptable and comfortable working in an environment where no two days look the same. Another challenge is learning how to balance multiple high-priority projects at once, especially in a space where everything moves quickly. Staying organized and being proactive have been key to excelling in my role.”

Do you feel it’s more difficult as a female in your profession than a male? How do you overcome this obstacle if so?

Kenzie notes that while the sports industry is mainly male-domiated, she leans on her upbringing and views those around her as role models to be confident in herself. “I’m continually inspired by the leadership and expertise of the women on my all-female team. Growing up, I looked up to my grandmother, mom, and aunt—who were all female entrepreneurs. Their example instilled in me a deep confidence which I carry with me in my career.”

What has been your greatest experience thus far working in sports?

This year, Elevate launched one of their biggest activations yet, which gave Kenzie the chance to attend the Super Bowl in New Orleans. “It was an incredible experience—an unmatched sports environment, a major networking opportunity, and a front-row seat to one of the most exciting events in the industry.”

What is advice you would give a girl entering college or the professional world who is looking to work in sports?

For girls entering college, Kenzie has one piece of advice: start early. “Get that freshman year internship, build your experience every year, and take advantage of every opportunity to grow. It’s a competitive industry, but by the time you graduate, you’ll be ready.”

For women entering the workforce post grad, Kenzie has a few different things she suggests. “Walk into every room with confidence, knowing you bring value. Be curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to share fresh ideas. The industry thrives on innovation, and new perspectives are always needed.”