OPERATIONS ASSISTANT
University of Northern Iowa Football
As a Student Recruiting Operations Assistant for the University of Northern Iowa Football program, I work directly alongside the General Manager to support the day-to-day operations of one of the most important areas within collegiate athletics recruiting and operations. This role has allowed me to gain hands-on experience in NCAA recruiting operations, event management, digital media, administrative coordination, and relationship building while contributing to the overall success of the Panther Football program.
From welcoming prospective student-athletes to campus to creating recruiting graphics and managing behind-the-scenes logistics, I help ensure every interaction reflects the professionalism and culture of UNI Football.
MY RESPONSIBILITIES
Team Travel Coordination
I assist with organizing and coordinating travel logistics for student-athletes, coaches, staff, and donors to ensure each trip is well planned and executed efficiently. My responsibilities include preparing comprehensive travel materials and itineraries, and assembling travel packets before departure.
In addition, I create rooming assignments for travel parties, develop airplane and bus seating charts to support efficient travel operations, and review hotel contracts to verify accommodations align with team needs and travel requirements. By managing these details and collaborating with internal staff, I help ensure travel experiences are organized, seamless, and conducive to the success of our athletic programs.
Recruiting Operations
I assist in coordinating both official and unofficial recruiting visits by organizing every detail of the prospect experience. This includes developing personalized itineraries, preparing recruiting materials, leading facility tours, scheduling campus activities, and ensuring each visit runs efficiently. My goal is to help create a memorable experience for prospective student-athletes and their families while showcasing everything UNI Football has to offer.
Recruiting Database Management
Accurate organization is critical throughout the recruiting process. I maintain and update recruiting databases, track prospect information, organize recruiting records, and assist with communication efforts to ensure coaches have the information they need throughout each stage of recruitment.
Administrative Support
In addition to recruiting operations, I provide administrative support for the football office by organizing documents, managing records, preparing reports, coordinating schedules, and assisting with daily office operations. Working directly with the General Manager has strengthened my organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Digital Media & Creative Content
Another aspect of the position is creating commitment graphics and recruiting-focused digital content for social media. These graphics celebrate future Panthers while helping strengthen the UNI Football brand and increase engagement with recruits and fans. This was one of my main roles before they hired a Video and Engagement Coordinator in the Fall of 2025.
IMPACT
This role has given me an inside look at the operational side of collegiate athletics and has strengthened my passion for sports administration. Working alongside coaches, administrators, student-athletes, and prospective recruits has taught me the importance of organization, professionalism, and creating exceptional experiences. Every project, whether it's planning a recruiting visit, designing commitment graphics, or coordinating team logistics, contributes to the continued success and reputation of UNI Football while preparing me for a career in collegiate athletics and sports administration.
SKILLS DEVELOPED
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NCAA Division I Recruiting Operations
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Event Planning & Logistics
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Project Coordination
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Digital Content Creation & Graphic Design
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Social Media Marketing
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Administrative Management
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Travel Planning & Coordination
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Database Management
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Professional Communication
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Organization & Attention to Detail
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Time Management
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Team Collaboration
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Problem Solving