MSU Athletics I-Racers Program Signals Success

When Marketing Director, Kyle McClure, began his job four years ago, he realized that in order to improve the marketing and promotional efforts of the athletic department he must incorporate student help. To do so, he created a program that allows students to be marketing volunteers.

The MSU I-Racer program is a great way for students gain career experience while working with MSU Athletics.

"In order for us to operate at a high level and provide optimum customer satisfaction, I need a lot of help,” McClure said. “In keeping with the mission of Murray State University, the interns get hands-on experience."

I-Racers work one hour a week in McClure's office where they perform general duties, create marketing plans, and execute small corporate sales agreements.

At athletic events, I-Racers can be seen scurrying around the facilities conducting half time contests, passing out giveaway items, running video board operations and performing customer service duties. The experience and hard work has played off for the athletic department and the students.

Five former interns have landed entry-level positions at other universities.

Nico Yankto – North Carolina State University
"The MSU athletics I-Racer program was extremely beneficial in giving me the knowledge and skills necessary to move forward in pursuing a career in athletic administration. Currently I am in external operations at NC State, and the experiences I gained with being in the athletic department have truly help me in preparing for interviews and gaining quality D-I athletic management experience."

Kelby Weiter - Illinois State University
"If it wasn't for being an intern, I wouldn't be where I am today. It was great hands-on experience that taught me about different areas of collegiate athletics. It opened the door for me and now I am selling corporate sponsorships for Illinois State Athletics."

Jane Dewitt - Vanderbilt
"Being an I-Racer at MSU gave me the experience I needed to set me above other candidates with similar educational credentials. In a tough job market, student internships are essential. The program allows for not only resume building, but also networking opportunities with successful professionals in both the business and athletics. I would recommend being an intern at Murray State to anyone eager to learn and interested in sports administration and marketing.”

Phillip Lady – Southeast Missouri State University
"Working in the Murray State athletic I-Racer program has allowed me to have in-game and hands-on experience with every major sports team. I met a lot of great people which has helped me grow in this field. Each sport provides a unique marketing and promotions opportunity with the MSU Athletics department. Working as an intern two years helped me land a graduate assistant position."

Kyle Johnson - Chicago Fire (Current I-Racer)
"Since joining the Sports Marketing Internship Program at Murray State, I have been able to gain valuable experience. I-Racers has been the reason why I have pursued a career in sports marketing and is a definite advantage when interviewing for positions."

McClure says he's very proud of the former interns.

"I always tell them that if you work hard and do a good job, I'll do everything in my power to help get you land a job in college athletics,” McClure said. “I'm glad to see their work ethic and attitude pay off."

For more information on how to become an I-Racer in the MSU Athletics department, contact Kyle McClure at the following at (270) 809-3517 or kyle.mcclure@murraystate.edu

Murray State University Athletics

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