WASHINGTON - Matt Sloan of American University men's soccer and Garrett Sooter of American University men's swimming were selected to attend the 2020 NCAA Career in Sports forum. Through the innovative use of an online platform, the multi-day leadership development event is set to take place virtually May 27-29.
 
Organized and directed by the NCAA Leadership Development department, Sloan and Sooter will join around 360 other student-athletes from across the nation to learn about, explore and chart their potential careers in sports, particularly collegiate athletics.
 
Sloan is a rising senior majoring in law and society, while Sooter graduated earlier this month with a degree in economics. 

"I was totally shocked at first when I got the email confirming that I was selected," said Sloan. "Leading up to the forum this week, we have had a series of warm-up activities to get our mindsets right for the event. I'm excited to learn and hear from lots of professionals in the sports world, particularly at the collegiate sports level. It was always a dream of mine to play at the next level, but as I've gotten older, being involved in sport in a different way has peaked my interest - whether it is coaching or management. I hope this event gives me some more insight into those professions."

The unique virtual programming will include multiple sessions, ranging from how student-athletes can become more aware of their inner strengths, how to develop a career plan, practical approaches to the job search, how to navigate as a young professional in the athletics industry, the role of an athletics administrator and head coach, and other motivational and key messaging from speakers. The athletes also will have opportunities to engage in breakout sessions where they will engage in guided discussions to further curriculum understanding and build community with other student-athletes.
 
Usually, the annual forum takes place at the NCAA headquarters in Indianapolis, but the program has moved to a virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "It is important to host the Career in Sports Forum this year, as we want to continue providing student-athletes with career and leadership development, even during these challenging times when we are unable to meet in person," said Lamarr Pottinger, associate director of NCAA Leadership Development.