In early 2023, the remarkable story of Stephanie Morales Arevalo’s achievements came to our attention, showcasing the success of one of the former sport marketing students from Schulich School of Business – York University. Stephanie has once again achieved a significant milestone!
Stephanie is now the recipient of the 2024 ???????????? ???? ???????????? ???????????????????????????????????????? and has commenced her role with Toronto FC of Major League Soccer. Today marks her first day, making her the second recipient of the fellowship initiated by the club and BMO in 2022, aimed at creating opportunities for women in professional soccer.
This recent accomplishment adds to Stephanie’s amazing journey and stands as a testament to her initiative and passion. Stephanie completed the sport marketing course in 2021, and while on exchange in France in 2023, sought advice on pursuing career opportunities in sport marketing.
Taking the advice given, Stephanie secured an internship with France’s LFP – Ligue de Football Professionnel, which collaborated with the sport marketing course on a consulting project in 2020. In her role with LFP, Stephanie contributed to international development initiatives, brand strategy development, and translation.
Now, Stephanie has translated her experience with one of Europe’s top-5 soccer leagues into an incredible career development opportunity. This is truly remarkable!
Stephanie’s new position could be a “game changer” in launching a career in soccer business in North America. She is highly deserving of this opportunity and, in addition to her experience, will bring to the club her trilingualism (English, Spanish, French) and perspectives as a former soccer player with York Lions’ women’s varsity team.
As a ???????????? ???? ???????????? ????????????????????????, Stephanie will collaborate closely with leaders across the club’s front office, engaging in rotations across multiple areas of Team & Business Operations, including Business Operations, Player Personnel (Roster/Cap Management, Scouting, Analytics), Team Administration, Player Development & Safe Sport, Media Relations, TFC 2 & Academy Operations.
The exposure, experience, and networking opportunities she will gain through this role will undoubtedly be invaluable to her professional development.
A heartfelt thank you to Bill Manning, President, and Chris Shewfelt, VP, Business Operations, for extending this potentially life-changing opportunity to Stephanie. Special recognition also goes to BMO for making this Fellowship possible and supporting soccer in Canada.
Although our school lacks a sport management program, achievements like Stephanie’s underscore Schulich’s prominence in the Canadian sport industry!
Congratulations, Stephanie, and best wishes with Toronto FC! We eagerly anticipate the new chapter you will write in your story, anticipating a long and successful career in soccer business!