Game Day Operations Intern
Aberdeen Wings
3 hours ago
Internship
On-site
Aberdeen, South Dakota, United States
College Credit
Game Day Operations Internship
Aberdeen Wings
Position Title: Game Day Operations Intern
Organization: Aberdeen Wings
League: North American Hockey League
Location: Aberdeen
Term: Seasonal Internship (September – April)
Reports To: President
Organization: Aberdeen Wings
League: North American Hockey League
Location: Aberdeen
Term: Seasonal Internship (September – April)
Reports To: President
Position Summary
The Game Day Operations Intern will assist the Aberdeen Wings front office in the planning, coordination, and execution of all home games and team events throughout the NAHL season. This internship provides hands-on experience in sports operations, fan engagement, event management, promotions, and live entertainment within a fast-paced junior hockey environment.
The ideal candidate is energetic, dependable, organized, and passionate about sports and entertainment. Interns will gain valuable experience working directly with team staff to help deliver a first-class fan experience on game days. Similar junior hockey internships emphasize event setup, fan interaction, promotions, and operational support.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Assist with pre-game setup, arena preparation, and post-game breakdown
- Help coordinate in-game promotions, contests, giveaways, and fan engagement activities
- Support ticketing, ushering, merchandise sales, and customer service efforts
- Assist with on-ice and intermission entertainment execution
- Prepare sponsor signage, promotional materials, and hospitality areas
- Coordinate participant check-ins for intermission games and special events
- Assist with mascot appearances and community engagement activities
- Support game presentation staff with scripts, timing, and event flow
- Help maintain a positive, energetic, and family-friendly game environment
- Perform additional duties as assigned by front office staff
Qualifications
- Current high school or college student pursuing a degree in Sports Management, Marketing, Communications, Business, Event Management, or related field preferred
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays during the hockey season
- Positive attitude and willingness to work in a team-oriented environment
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced live event setting
- Previous experience in sports, customer service, promotions, or event operations is preferred but not required
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods during games and events
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds
- Comfortable working in a loud, fast-paced arena environment
Benefits
- Hands-on experience in professional sports operations
- Networking opportunities within the hockey and sports industry
- Opportunity to develop leadership, communication, and event management skills
- Behind-the-scenes access to NAHL game operations
- Potential for academic credit (if approved by college/university)
Preferred Characteristics
- Passion for hockey and live sports entertainment
- Strong work ethic and attention to detail
- Creativity and enthusiasm for fan engagement
- Ability to adapt quickly and solve problems under pressure
The Aberdeen Wings organization values professionalism, teamwork, and community involvement while providing interns with meaningful experience in junior hockey operations. The team has a history of developing staff members through operational roles and internships.