Meet our Intern
Hi everyone! My name is Ella Persails and I am a current junior at the University of South Florida. I am majoring in marketing with a concentration in sports management, along with a legal studies minor. I am from a small town in Michigan called Frankenmuth, which is famously known for having the largest Christmas store in the Midwest! I have played sports all of my life including basketball, softball, track, and volleyball. My love for sports started at a young age, primarily because my family is so sports oriented. My uncle used to play for the Detroit Tigers and my great-grandpa played for the Chicago White Sox, so can you imagine their faces when I told them I was quitting softball? Anyway, growing up I always knew I wanted to work in sports because I was so passionate about them.
Experience and Opportunities
I started to understand how many opportunities you could gain from going to a large university that is sports oriented. Because of that, I chose USF, which was the best decision ever! Freshman year I had an opportunity to be a part of the event management team for USF Athletics. I learned so much from my mentors, however, I feel like it wasn’t the right fit for me. I started engaging with other professionals from the athletics department, and became really interested in the new NIL engagement department. I learned how much I loved learning about contract deals, negotiation, and marketing.
In addition, I attended the “She is Football” event hosted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers where I interacted with many successful women. I began talking to a contracts coordinator for the Buccaneers, and she made a lasting impression on me. I decided to add a legal studies minor to my degree, in hopes to go to law school after graduating. I plan to study sports and entertainment law, and see where the wind takes me!
Hobbies and Interests
Additionally, moving down to Florida from Michigan was a big adjustment for me, but I have picked up so many new hobbies because of the amazing weather. I love going to the beach with friends, exploring Tampa, and attempting to eat at every single restaurant there before I graduate. Let’s just say it is not going well, I have too many favorites I keep going back to! One big fact about me is that I love traveling. My favorite place I have been to so far is Jamaica. The food is amazing and it is so beautiful! I am very excited because next summer I am going on a month-long European vacation with my older sister, Zoey. We will be going to London, Italy, Malta, and Spain. I am most excited for Italy and Spain to see all of the museums. I am fascinated by history and art, and I can’t wait to learn more about the ancient ruins, along with the local culture.
Ultimately, I am so excited to start my internship at Knox Sports, and to grow my knowledge in the sports marketing world.