2025 Watauga DECA members during Sports and Entertainment Marketing Conference Disney trip. Photo Credits: Olivia Tarnowski
Sophie Parker
The excitement was evident as members of the Watauga DECA chapter journeyed to Florida, where business meets magic with a Sports and Entertainment Marketing Conference and adventures through Disney World. It was an opportunity for DECA juniors and seniors to dive deeper into the world of sports marketing, learning from expert speakers and gaining valuable experience that will shape their futures. With the backdrop of Disney’s parks and attractions students were not only immersed in professional development but also inspired by the creativity and innovation found at Disney.
“The Sports Entertainment Marketing Conference was a conference consisting of four speakers each day with a sports or entertainment occupation and providing us insight on their job and their advice with the pursuit of going into the business,” said Sheridan Brasier, senior, and Vice President of Hospitality.
Attending the conference provided valuable perspectives, and learning from multiple speakers a day means that some are bound to stand out to you. Some viewpoints and approaches resonated deeply with students and impacted them in ways that will undoubtedly benefit them in the future.
“Hearing from speakers, I took away advice I will take not only with me to states but also my future endeavors, " said Braiser. “My biggest takeaway was from Hubert Payne, who is now a drummer for Little Big Town but overcame huge obstacles to be where he is today. Through his presentation, I learned to persist no matter the obstacles and to take any advice I can. Competing in a written event in states this year, I will keep this advice close to me.”
Understanding that both opportunity and experience await DECA members at the conferences, upcoming juniors and seniors wishing to attend next year’s trip should prepare themselves for long days full of adventure and chances to further their knowledge.
“Be prepared to be on your feet all day. It's pretty tiring. It's very fun. But you know, you have to be mentally prepared to be on your feet and moving and listening to these things all the time," said Julia Bateman, senior, three-year DECA member. “I would say bring a notebook because I wish that I had been taking notes as we were going through the speakers because I can't even remember several of their names and they were some of the best speakers that I've ever listened to.”
Not only did the speakers contribute to the trip but it was the personal connections and moments of fun that truly made the conference memorable. For many the highlight wasn’t just the sessions and learning, but the time spent with friends, creating lasting memories.
“I originally thought my favorite part would be going to the conferences,” said Jonah Norris, senior, two-year DECA member. “But there's something special about going on those rides and waiting in line and talking about colleges with friends and taking people on rides they've never been to and just seeing the joy in their eyes.”
The excitement of rides at Disney World paired with educational advancement and shared experiences brought an entirely different layer to the adventure, making it a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.
“For those who wish to attend the conference next year, I would tell them to expect walking into a lively and exciting atmosphere, being with those who share a common passion,” said Braiser. “You will also learn key advice you can take with you through competitions, as well as future endeavors.”
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