Detroit Sports Commission Internship

ABOUT THE [Detroit Sports Commission Summer Internship] 

WHO WE ARE

Our vibrant team strives to unite partners to drive regional tourism and economic impact by connecting the world to our diverse communities, rich history, and spirit of innovation. Integrity, empowerment, transparency, community, passion, and empathy guide our workplace culture. With a firm commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging we strive to create an environment where voices are valued and respected. If this resonates with you, consider the role below:

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Paid Spring/Summer Internship 
• Paid Parking, with 24/7 Access
• Exposure to Sales, Tourism, Hospitality, and Convention Business
• Real-World Projects that Contribute to Detroit’s Visitor Economy

JOB HIGHLIGHTS

POSITION PURPOSE: The Detroit Sports Commission (DSC) is seeking motivated candidates for internship opportunities during the spring and summer terms, with a primary focus on Summer 2026. Interns will support a variety of initiatives related to event operations, sales, and marketing, gaining hands-on experience in the sports tourism industry.

The Detroit Sports Commission is a non-profit subsidiary of Visit Detroit and is responsible for hosting and supporting amateur sporting events throughout the Metro Detroit area. DSC collaborates with national and regional sports organizations, including the NCAA, AAU, USSSA, MHSAA, and USA Olympic sports organizations, to attract and deliver impactful sporting events.

LOCATION & SCHEDULE: 

• In-Office – Detroit, MI and surrounding area
• Students are expected to work 28 hours per week from April through August. During event periods, hours may exceed 40 hours in one week and may include nights, weekends, and holidays, including Labor Day weekend. A work schedule will be established at the beginning of the internship.

WHAT WE REQUIRE:

• One year of college education
• Unrestricted valid Michigan State driver’s license and satisfactory driving history
• Eligible to receive college credit 
• Strong computer skills with Microsoft Office (Word and Excel) and Adobe software
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, along with the ability to effectively prioritize and manage changing demands
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with all team members and customers
• High level of organization, initiative, energy, and attention to detail
• Strong customer service with the ability to troubleshoot and handle pressure situations
• Strong computer skills with Microsoft Office (Word and Excel) and Adobe software
• Must possess and demonstrate the highest level of integrity and ethical standards

PREFERRED:

• Two years of a combination of formal education and work experience
• Marketing, sports marketing, or event planning experience/education                                                                              

HOW YOU’LL CONTRIBUTE: 

The internship will focus on several projects and events, including: 

• Promote and raise awareness of a variety of amateur and professional sporting events in the Detroit area
• Support event management operations, including customer service, hospitality, security/access control, signage and décor, awards facilitation, facility management, and public relations/marketing
• Create and manage content for social media platforms and website updates
• Assist in designing marketing and promotional materials and campaigns to drive event attendance
• Provide sales support, including preparation of bids, proposals, and sponsorship materials
• Coordinate and manage volunteers to support event operations
• Assist with promotion and execution of signature events, such as the Prep Kickoff Classic, to maximize visibility and attendance
• Support Detroit Sports Commission staff with day-to-day administrative and operational tasks

OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS:

• Provide support for special projects and initiatives as needed. 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND COMPETENCIES:

• Team oriented individual with an interest and passion for sports.
• Working knowledge of the hospitality and sports event industry, knowledge of area hotels/motels, and of regional sports facilities
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills including the ability to clearly express complex thoughts, ideas, and concepts in the English language.
• Ability to coordinate multiple clerical tasks as well as play a supporting role throughout the sales process when needed.
• Excellent communication skills including the ability to clearly express thoughts, ideas, and concepts, verbally and in writing, in the English language.
• Skilled in organizing, prioritizing, and analyzing multiple assignments simultaneously.
• Ability to think and manage creatively in a fast-paced work environment.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, peers, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
• Maintains a positive and professional work attitude, appearance, and behavior even in the most demanding situation.
• Ability to work effectively in both remote and in-person work environment; proficient using video conferencing software and other remote work tools.
• Proficient in using personal computer software and applications including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. 
• Available weekends and outside of normal work hours for assignments and travel, as needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Extended periods of sitting and standing with occasional to extended periods of walking
• Prolonged use of desktop/laptop computer and peripheral equipment
• Occasional to frequent bending, stooping, standing, and carrying
• Must be in good physical condition with the ability to lift and move items of up to 50 lbs.
• Must be willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays
• Occasional work outdoors in all weather conditions