For the past 2 ½ months, I have been teaching a sports marketing class once a week at Lake High School. I wasn’t sure what to expect in teaching a bunch of high school sophomores, but it turned out to be a very positive experience for everyone involved. I definitely stepped out of my comfort zone and found something else I really enjoy doing.
The program, initiated and arranged by Junior Achievement, had not yet been taught with a focus on sports marketing here in Stark County. And I had never taught in a formal classroom setting before…just small groups or coaching environments. But by going in with an open mind, the ability to be flexible and a helpful teacher in Suzanne Goebelt, things got off to a good start. I was able to relate my career and real-world experiences as the weeks progressed, and I think the students appreciated the examples and scenarios I presented.
It was my job to prepare a lesson plan each week to instruct the class about compiling a business plan for a unique product or service. Each group had to assign a CEO, COO and VP of Marketing and play those roles. We discussed all the components of an effective business plan, putting special emphasis on the marketing functions. In the end, four groups “invented” a new product and prepared an overview presentation of their plan and how they would promote the product. All the groups really got into it and became very creative when it came to designing a logo and print ad.
One of the best parts was observing the small group discussions (some of which turned to debate), giving helpful hints and even hearing a few of the students comment that they will sign up for more marketing classes as juniors and seniors. It was fun and enjoyable to lead the class, and although I was warned that this sophomore group might not be very talkative or interactive, I found the group to be interested, innovative and appreciative.
