As someone planning to study sports management at the University of Maine, I believe sustainability needs to be a bigger priority in the sports industry. Most people only see what happens on the field, but behind every game there are stadiums using huge amounts of energy and water, large amounts of waste being produced, and constant travel from teams and fans. When you look at how big the sports industry is, the environmental impact adds up quickly, which is why it can’t be ignored. Being a captain on my football team has taught me what leadership really means, and I think that same idea applies to sports organizations. Teams and leagues are leaders whether they realize it or not. Fans pay attention to what they do and often follow their example. That gives the sports industry a unique opportunity to influence thousands of people at once. If sustainability becomes part of how teams operate, it can make a real difference beyond just the game. From playing football and lacrosse, I’ve seen firsthand how much waste comes from sporting events. After games, there’s always a lot left behind, especially plastic bottles and other trash. One of the main ways I see myself helping in the future is by improving how events are managed. That could include better recycling systems, reducing single-use plastics, and working with vendors to use more sustainable materials. These may seem like small changes, but when you’re dealing with large crowds, they have a big impact. My experiences outside of sports have also shaped how I approach this. I’ve worked at Wendy’s for the past two years while staying involved in multiple clubs, including Leo Club and Hope Club, which focus on volunteering. I’m also the Vice President of FBLA at Erskine Academy, along with being part of Student Council and Spanish Honors Society. Balancing all of this has taught me responsibility, leadership, and how to work with others. Volunteering, especially, has shown me how small efforts can create positive change in a community, which connects directly to sustainability. In the future, I want to bring these skills into the sports industry. I don’t expect to completely change everything, but I do want to be part of making sports more environmentally responsible. Whether that’s helping reduce waste at events, improving daily operations, or encouraging organizations to make better decisions, I want to contribute in a way that actually makes a difference. Growing up in Maine, I’ve always been around the outdoors, and that’s made me appreciate how important it is to take care of the environment. Sports bring people together and create experiences that matter, but they also rely on the world around us. I want to help make sure that future generations can continue to enjoy both.