Marshall University Athletics
Marshall Student-Athletes Take Part In ‘Next Play’ Career Networking Event
3/31/2026 9:16:00 AM | General
Networking event aids Herd athletes in preparation for life after athletics
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Marshall Athletics recently hosted a 'Next Play' Career Networking event for its student-athletes on March 23 inside the Big Green Room at Joan C. Edwards Stadium.
The 'Herd Up' Student-Athlete Development event was a big success, thanks in part to the collaboration between sponsors Chick-Fil-A and HerdZone Team Store, as well as local vendors and employers who helped build connections for the future with Marshall's student-athletes.
The skills learned through participating in intercollegiate athletics provide leadership skills that are essential for success in the business world, making Marshall's student-athletes a highly-sought after source for employment in all career fields.
"We talk a lot about Herd Mentality – and this is exactly what it looks like in action," said Niesha Campbell, Marshall's Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Operating Officer and Senior Woman Administrator. "It's about investing in our student-athletes beyond the game, ensuring they leave Marshall Athletics with a network, a vision and the tools to succeed in life after college. This Career Networking event is a critical part of that commitment, equipping our student-athletes with the relationships, confidence and real-world skills they need to thrive long after their playing days are over."
The event was geared toward helping juniors and seniors within Marshall Athletics who are nearing their athletic eligibility completion but was open to all Herd student-athletes who wanted to network and build relationships with some of the Tri-State's top business leaders.
"I enjoyed networking with several hardworking business leaders the past week," said Madison Townes of Marshall Women's Soccer. "'Next Play' Career Networking helped me feel much more prepared for life after college. It was great getting to know everyone and make connections."
In addition to the event helping Marshall student-athletes find potential career pathways, it also helped local business leaders meet up-and-coming young professionals who feature the leadership and skill set to take their businesses to the next level in the future.
"United Bank is incredibly grateful to be part of such an important effort supporting student-athletes through career development," said Emily Bartram, Market President of the Huntington Market for United Bank. "Marshall Athletics continues to be a true pillar in the community, and it was clear how invested they are in preparing their students for success both on and off the court. The level of engagement, professionalism and preparation from the student-athletes was impressive and speaks volumes about the culture being built within Marshall Athletics. At United Bank, we're proud to support and be connected to initiatives like this."
The career development event featured various stations that covered all areas of strategy in building for the future in the working force, including a station for athletes to determine potential career paths based on education and skill sets, tips on resume building and information about employer organizations and resources that provide background for companies in attendance.
Marshall student-athletes also took part in mock interviews designed to acclimate them to what they may face as they speak with potential employers in the future, thus easing uncertainty or tension that comes with the interview process. They also got professional business headshots at the 'Next Play' event for use with their resumes in the future.
There were also several education partners at the event for those student-athletes who may opt to expand their educational opportunities in the future.
Marshall Athletics would like to thank the following businesses for their involvement in the 'Next Play' event:
- Northwestern Mutual
- Ohio State Highway Patrol
- Marshall Rec Center
- United Bank
- Thundering Beverage LLC
- Enterprise Mobility
- PepsiCo
- Fastenal
- Huntington Police Department
- Glenn's Sporting Goods
- Lexington Fire Department
- Doubletree by Hilton
- Athlete 2 Employment
- Chick-Fil-A
- HerdZone Stadium Store
Marshall Athletics would also like to thank the following Marshall University academic sectors for their continued partnership in expanding educational opportunities for student-athletes: Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Office of Career Education, Graduate College of Business and Graduate Admissions.
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---HerdZone.com---
