You may be asking yourself, “Who is this person? What does he know? And why should I listen to him?”All are valid questions, so allow me to introduce myself and answer those important questions.
My name is Chris McKinney, founder of SPORTS LAUNCH™, and I have over twenty years of combined experience in both the fields of Sports Marketing and Career Development.This experience gives me a unique perspective and a level of expertise few others in either industry can match
Sports Business Experience
As a college senior, I launched my own sports marketing firm, maintaining a blue chip roster of sponsors including Pepsi-Cola, Frito-Lay and Ray-Ban among many others. In addition to my own events, I promoted NFL Properties, worked with NBC Sports, and sold corporate sponsorships for the Dallas Mavericks where I won the Dallas Mavericks Corporate Sponsor Sales Award.
Career Development Experience
I also published Next Magazine: The College Guide to Life and Jobs+ Magazine, a complimentary “career guide” inserted into campus newspapers.
In addition, I developed a popular career workshop and workbook entitled, Get Paid For Doing What You Love: 7 Steps to Landing Your Dream Job, which I presented to a number of colleges including Texas Christian University (TCU).
Another Reason You Should Listen to Me
Another reason you should listen to me is because I know what it’s like to sit on the other side of the desk as a Hiring Manager. I’ve hired hundreds of students and young professionals for promotional marketing campaigns tied to major events, including The Final Four and the Six Flags Spring Breakout Extreme.
I know first-hand what employers look for (and look out for!) in a job candidate.
My experiences, my insights, my successes — and even my failures — have all had a hand in developing the 7 Simple Steps outlined in my book. This strategy will make the difference between landing your first job in sports or getting overlooked, making mistakes and missing the opportunity of your dreams.
“GOOD THINGS MAY COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT, BUT ONLY THE THINGS LEFT BY THOSE WHO HUSTLE.”
-Abraham Lincoln
“Chris McKinney’s attention to detail and overall customer service made our sponsorship with the Dallas Mavericks one of the most memorable sponsorship experiences we’ve ever had! Chris totally delivered. If he says he’s going to do something, rest assured, Chris will get it done.”
Gregory Newsome, Finish Line (Dallas Mavericks Sponsor)
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“Mr. Chris McKinney: … I’m proud to tell you that we set an all-time ATTENDANCE RECORD for this annual event [The NFL’s Fastest Man]. I know you were in charge of the local promotion … putting ‘butts in seats’… Outstanding job!”
“Dear Chris: I would like to take this opportunity to say ‘Thank You’ for helping raise money for the Boys & Girls Club with this event. Please express our thanks to all your staff for the fine job they did to ensure this event was a SUCCESS.”
Tammy Atkinson, Executive Director, Boys & Girls Club
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“As the Presenting Sponsor, Advantage Rent-A-Car could not be more PLEASED with the overall execution of the event. From the early planning stages to the final report, Chris McKinney showed a level of professionalism and commitment to meet our needs from start to finish. Chris really raised the bar.”
David Schibi, General Manager, Advantage Rent-A-Car
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“Hey Chris – Here’s a big THANK YOU for helping make our first attempt at spring break on South Padre Island a great success! The amount of exposure we received was incredible! Thanks again for all your help with this event.”
Traci Fabas, Public Relations Manager, Evian Spring Water
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“Dear Chris: I wanted to express my appreciation for the WONDERFUL JOB you and your staff did with the Pepsi College Beach Volleyball Championships. This was a positive addition to the Island. We’re always pleased to host great events that promote healthy lifestyles.”
Harold Wheeler, Director, South Padre Island CVB
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“Chris, your presentation and your career strategies were excellent! I know our students gained a lot from your experience and charisma during CAREER WEEK. I look forward to working with you again in the future.”
Rosemary Routsong, Career Services, Northlake College
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“Of all the breakout sessions, Chris McKinney’s was by far the most outstanding and most helpful. Thanks for all the GREAT CAREER TIPS, Chris!”
Matt Hashimoto, College Senior, Golden Key Honors
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“Dear Chris McKinney: Thank you for helping making our Junior Jumpstart Program a HUGE SUCCESS. We hope you can come back and present your career strategies again next year!”
Melissa B. White, Career Services, Texas Christian University
