The 2026 SPM Business of Sport Symposium is Coming Soon!
Connect with top sport industry professionals, discover new ideas, and gain insights into the evolving business of sport. Learn more and reserve your place in this amazing event.
Register for BOSS
Business of Sport Symposium (BOSS)
University of Florida Department of Sport Management
About the Symposium
The University of Florida Department of Sport Management is proud to present the 2026 Business of Sport Symposium (BOSS). BOSS serves as the premier intersection for aspiring student professionals, world-class faculty, and elite sports industry executives.
Over the course of this dynamic two-day event, attendees will gain access to keynote presentations, interactive panel discussions, and structured networking sessions led by leaders shaping the landscape of modern sports business. Whether your interest lies in front-office operations, sports marketing, analytics, or athlete representation, BOSS is designed to bridge the gap between experiential learning and industry-based practices.
Goal
Our goal is to empower the next generation of sports business leaders by providing an immersive forum that fosters innovation, facilitates mentorship, and drives meaningful action around the evolving challenges and opportunities within the global sports industry.
Attend the Symposium
Date + Location
Where
Reitz Union – 686 Museum Road, Gainesville, FL 32611 – Rion Ball Room
When
- Mon, Nov 9, 2026 (8:30 am – 5:30 pm)
- Tues, Nov 10, 2026 (8:30 am – 1:00 pm)
Getting Here
Parking
- Guests staying at the Reitz Union Hotel receive free gated rooftop parking for one vehicle.
- Garage XII is located at Reitz Union, at the corner of Museum Road and Reitz Union Drive.
- Additional parking is available at Garage 5 located on Gale Lemerand Drive.
- These garages are unrestricted pay facilities available to all visitors and members of the UF community run by UF’s Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS). For more information on garage hours and fees visit: TAPS Visitor Parking
- Guests staying at the Reitz Union Hotel receive free gated rooftop parking for one vehicle.
Sponsors
Sponsorship information and confirmed sponsors will be added as they become available.
Presenting Sponsor
Lunch Sponsor
Supporting Sponsors
FAQs and Networking Tips
You must physically sign in at the BOSS registration desk with a designated SPM faculty member
Day 1 & Day 2 Check in: Simply showing up to the ballroom is not enough. Locate the faculty check-in station upon your arrival each morning, sign the official attendance sheet, and verify your name.
- Note: If you fail to sign in with the faculty member on-site, your absence will not be excused. If you have non-SPM classes during these times, please consult your respective professors individually well in advance.
- Day 1, Monday, November 9th: A catered lunch is provided courtesy of our Lunch Sponsor. Light refreshments and snacks will also be available during the afternoon networking breaks.
- Day 2, Tuesday, November 10th: Mid-morning snacks and refreshments will be provided to keep students fueled through the final panels and closing remarks.
Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of the Business of Sport Symposium. Whether you’re exploring career paths or building professional relationships, consider these tips:
• Introduce yourself confidently. Prepare a brief introduction that includes your name, academic program or role, and career interests.
• Do your homework. Review the speaker and panelist information before the event and identify individuals you’d like to meet.
• Ask thoughtful questions. Engage speakers and industry professionals with questions about their career paths, industry trends, or advice for emerging professionals.
• Be an active listener. Meaningful networking is about building relationships, not just exchanging contact information.
• Bring business cards or have your LinkedIn profile ready. A QR code linked to your LinkedIn profile can make it easy to connect.
• Attend networking sessions and breaks. Informal conversations during meals, breaks, and receptions often lead to valuable connections.
• Follow up after the event. Send a brief thank-you message or LinkedIn invitation within a few days to maintain the connection.
• Focus on learning. Networking is most effective when approached with curiosity and a genuine interest in others’ experiences.
Don’t worry, many attendees are networking for the first time. Start by introducing yourself to fellow students, asking questions during sessions, and attending organized networking activities. Industry professionals attending the symposium are often eager to share their experiences and support students interested in careers in the sport industry.
Business casual attire is recommended. Professional dress can help create a positive first impression and prepare you for interactions with industry leaders and potential employers.
Speakers may be available during designated networking periods and other event activities. Please be respectful of their time and follow any event guidelines regarding speaker interactions.
The Business of Sport Symposium is designed to connect students, alumni, faculty, and industry professionals, helping attendees learn about career opportunities and gain insights into the evolving sport industry.
Contact Us
Whether you’re interested in attending, sponsoring, or volunteering, we’d love to hear from you.
Sponsorship Information
Interested in becoming a sponsor or supporting the symposium?
Become a SponsorVolunteer Opportunities
If you are interested in volunteering for this event, please contact Carissa Ware at ware.cj@ufl.edu
VolunteerAccessibility
The University of Florida is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive experience for all participants. Individuals requiring accommodations to attend or participate in the Business of Sport Symposium should contact the event organizers as early as possible. Reasonable accommodations may be available for mobility, hearing, vision, dietary, and other accessibility needs. Advance notice will help ensure appropriate arrangements can be made.