Varsity Events Assistant – UBC Athletics & Recreation
Position Title
Varsity Events Assistant
Employer Name
Department of Athletics & Recreation, University of British Columbia
Work Term
August 15th, 2022 – April 15th, 2023
Remuneration
$3750/month
Job Summary
The Varsity Events Assistant supports the planning, organizing, and executing of varsity games and events on UBC’s Vancouver campus for the UBC Department of Athletics and Recreation.
The position is an integral member of the varsity team and works closely with the Manager, Varsity Events, Varsity Head Coaches and Administration Staff. The Varsity Events Assistant will receive training and hands-on experience working in a large-scale institution and department that engages student-athletes, alumni and community members from various backgrounds. The incumbent will gain exceptional experience in event management and sports administration while developing skills in the areas of leadership, communication, teamwork, administrative skills, critical thinking and problem-solving.
Work Performed
- Assists in the planning, organizing and executing of event logistics for varsity games and events
- Works collaboratively with members of the Manager, Varsity Events, the Varsity Leadership Team and coaching staff to ensure successful execution of all varsity events.
- Works with the Manager, Varsity Events and the Coordinator, Varsity Events to create and develop print and digital media collateral as required.
- Assists with ticket sales and reconciliation for varsity gated events.
- Supports communication with the varsity coaching staff as necessary to ensure cooperation and assistance in the professional execution of each varsity game.
- Assists in preparation for successful varsity events as required.
- Supports all pre, on-site and post-event activities in multiple locations by monitoring the operational activities at each venue, addressing concerns and resolving problems to ensure the success of each event.
- Assists Manager, Varsity Events and Coordinator, Varsity Events in preparation of larger events, including Festival Events and National Championships.
- Assists in supervising part-time student workers for hosted varsity events, specifically in the coordination of work schedules and technical operations (e.g. minor officials).
- Supports in providing proper training for minor officials, sport-specific as necessary.
- Ensures U SPORT and NAIA game management policies and procedures are strictly followed and enforced, including facilitation of the Game Tape Exchange protocol (video game capture, file conversion and uploading at the end of each game).
- Supports trophy maintenance and shipping on assigned varsity games.
- Contributes to post-event day reporting.
- Works as an on-venue liaison for visiting teams, and external stakeholders (i.e. security etc.).
- Attendance at varsity games/events required (includes evenings and weekends).
Organizational Status
This position is an integral member of the Varsity Events Unit. Within this Unit, they report to the Manager, Varsity Events and work collaboratively with the Coordinator, Varsity Events and the Operations Coordinator, War Memorial Gym.
Supervision Received
Reports to the Manager, Varsity Events.
Supervision Given
Assists in the supervision of 80 student staff.
Qualifications
Required/preferred qualifications and skills:
- Post-secondary degree, with a keen interest in sports administration, athletics & recreation or event management
- Experience in event management and/or sports environment preferred
- Strong leadership skills
- Proven organizational skills and attention to detail
- Demonstrated customer service proficiencies
- Enthusiastic, responsible, team player
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Strong Microsoft Office skills
- Excellent problem-solving skills
- Ability to work and lead in a professional manner
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment
- Full Driver’s License an asset (BC Class 5 or equivalent)
- Knowledge of Canada West, U SPORT and NAIA procedures in relation to event management and hosting is an asset
How to Apply
Please submit a resume and cover letter to guest.services@ubc.ca.
Job Description PDF
Application Deadline
Sunday, June 26, 2022, at 11:59 pm PDT
Novak, Mira
Mira Novak is a recent graduate of the High-Performance Coaching and Technical Leadership program (MHPCTL 2022). He is presently the head coach of the NCAA Division I women’s soccer team at the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
Before moving to the United States, Mira completed multiple coaching degrees in his home country, the Czech Republic, and Canada. He studied coaching at Charles University in Prague and St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, where he “played soccer and coached upon his graduation.” In 2016, he enrolled in the UBC School of Kinesiology’s HPCTL program and pursued a master’s degree while living in Scotland. He was working in coach education and mentoring at the Scottish Football Association and working in national youth talent soccer programs. In hindsight, it had been noteworthy for him “to be completing his master’s in different contexts before and after his move to the U.S.” He coached in five countries throughout his academic and professional journeys, which motivated him to “adjust his coaching practices to different cultures” and develop cultural competence.
Mira’s most memorable moments at UBC were his interactions with instructors and fellow students. “There were residential portions of our studies where we could interact with our peers and professors face to face. It was a very stimulating environment with several high-level coaches and professors present,” notes Mira. He credits David Hill, Dr. Maria Gallo, Dr. Andy van Neutegem and Dr. Shaunna Taylor for “investing so much effort into building the MHPCTL program.”
One of Mira’s significant career achievements as head coach was leading his team to win the 2021 America East Conference and become a continuing contender. Throughout his profession, he coached and trained athletes who have gone on to play for their national teams and pursue professional sporting careers.
Mendoza, Angelo
Angelo Mendoza is a graduate of the High-Performance Coaching and Technical Leadership program (MHPCTL 2019). He currently lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where he became the Provincial Head Coach for Karate Manitoba. In addition, Angelo is a High School teacher with over 21 years of experience. He has coached karate at both the provincial and national levels. Angelo started his karate journey at the age of 14. During this journey, Angelo has competed at the local and provincial level and earned his black belt 5th Degree. He has been exposed to many teaching and coaching styles that gave him the foundation to develop his own coaching style that proved to be very successful for his future students and athletes.
Angelo enrolled in the MHPCTL program to develop his coaching style and expand his interests in karate leadership. He was most interested in “personality differences of high and low winning Canadian sport karate coaches.” The School of Kinesiology provided him with a chance to improve his coaching techniques with evidence-based practice. His classes were online, which provided him with a unique learning experience. “It proved to be challenging, but I had professors that were helpful and resourceful,” notes Angelo. Nonetheless, his time as an MHPCTL student was nothing short of an eye-opening experience.
Angelo was able to leverage the skills and knowledge he gained from his degree to grow his career. For his athletes, he explores different practices “to implement their Yearly Plan,” and prepares himself “to make necessary changes for them to succeed in their competitions.” These approaches have contributed to his professional growth, in addition to recognizing “closed and opened skills” and having a “progressive mindset and coaching philosophy.” The MHPCTL program has his seal of approval and he recommends all coaches to enroll, stating that it is “changing the culture and professional outlook for coaching” and “a UBC degree gives coaches professional status and respect within their community.”
In 2019, Angelo graduated from the MHPCTL program at the University of British Columbia’s School of Kinesiology. This has been an important achievement as he pursues excellence in his teaching and the transfer of his knowledge to his students. Most recently, Angelo has opened up a new Martial Arts program at his school with the support of his Administration to create new opportunities for students that, otherwise are not involved in school activities.
Kouvousis, Christina
Christina Kouvousis (BKin 2017) is a Sport Development Coordinator at Water Polo West and coaches for the Provincial Training Centre and Team BC programs. She is a certified Competitive Coach and previously trained as a Learning Facilitator and Coach Evaluator to teach coaching courses.
Since her youth, Christina aspired to work in physiotherapy and study kinesiology in university. She began her academic journey at San Jose State University, where she completed her first year as a scholarship student-athlete for the NCAA Division 1 Women’s Water Polo team. After sustaining injuries from playing water polo, she transferred to the UBC School of Kinesiology to finish her degree. However, that did not stop her from getting involved in the sport. Moving back to her hometown, Vancouver, led her to her first coaching opportunity at the Vancouver Vipers Water Polo Club. Coaching water polo players, in addition to her experience as a student-athlete, shifted her career pursuits to “coaching science, athlete wellbeing, and mental health in sport.”
When asked about her most memorable moments at UBC, Christina mentions going to varsity sporting events and celebrating graduation with her KIN peers. She names Dr. Mark Beauchamp and Dr. Erica Bennett as academic inspirations who have made a positive impact on her UBC experience. “I completed a Directed Studies research project in Dr. Beauchamp’s lab and learned so much from the experience and his support,” reveals Christina. “Now an Assistant Professor, Dr. Bennett was one of my Teaching Assistants and has supported me both in the classroom and throughout my career thus far.” Her time at UBC was nothing short of a worthwhile experience. Not only did she learn about the numerous career possibilities a UBC degree can offer, but that these paths are pursued by “people who care deeply about their areas of work or study.” Studying kinesiology encouraged her to grow her coaching career by “exploring critical areas that impact sport and athletes” and applying “communication, critical thinking, research, and leadership skills” to her daily work.
In 2019, Christina was honoured by the Vancouver City Council as a Community Sport Champion “for her gender equity efforts in water polo.” Some of her career highlights also include participating in the 2019 Water Polo Canada Summit as a gender equity panelist and speaking on “power and abuse in sport” at the 2021 Stories of Resilience Virtual Conference. Her primary interests include “mental health, safe sport/prevention of athlete maltreatment and abuse, gender equity in sport, and coach development.” She wishes to enroll in graduate school and become a university head coach. Her long-term goals combine her passions for coaching and mental health, hoping to “work as a therapist to help people overcome mental health challenges, and continue working with athletes and coaches on mental health.”
Christina’s tips for current KIN students: Wherever you are, no matter what role you are in, always bring your best and treat those around you with respect and compassion. Don’t waste a moment comparing your journey to that of someone else. “You do not have to be an ‘important person’ to do important things.” No matter your platform/experience/status, you can always contribute value and inspire others.
2022 KIN Graduating Student Spotlight: Chanelle McPhee
Chanelle McPhee, She/Her/Hers
Degree: 4th Year, Bachelors of Kinesiology in Interdisciplinary Studies
Graduation: May 2022
What ignited your interest in pursuing an undergrad degree in kinesiology?
I grew up playing a variety of individual and team sports throughout my childhood such as gymnastics, downhill skiing, track and field, badminton, cross country running, and volleyball. These sports ignited my passion for learning about the human body, which is why I decided to apply for Kinesiology.
Are you involved in any clubs on campus or off? If so, what are they?
I joined the UBC Ski and Board club this year.
What communities are important to you and how do you contribute to them?
This past year I had the unique opportunity to volunteer at the Thunderbird Community Centre in East Vancouver. I helped prepare and serve food to the seniors in the community who are in need.
What do you hope to do when you graduate (personal, professional)?
I have decided to broaden my skillset and go into a different field of study after graduation. I was offered a place at BCIT’s Marketing Management diploma program and will be starting in Fall 2022. This program offers a concentration in Professional Sales, and I hope to have a career in medical sales in the future.
What are some of the ways your degree is preparing you for that goal?
Receiving a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology will lay a solid foundation for me to pursue a career in medical sales. Throughout my time as a Kinesiology student, I have learned a variety of medical products used in this field such as orthopedic supports, different medical imaging machines, electrocardiogram machines, and more. I hope that having this base of knowledge will prepare me to sell similar medical products in the future.
What experiences have you had as a kinesiology student, that you will bring into your next chapter/adventure/endeavour?
Studying Kinesiology has opened a multitude of doors for me. After my 2nd year of university, I was hired at Kintec Footwear and Orthotics due to my academic background on the human body and my experience in running track and field. At Kintec, I served as a Fitting Expert where I fit people for comfortable and appropriate footwear for walking, working, running, and/or everyday activities. Additionally, I help people find proper fitting insoles and knee braces. Working at Kintec made me realize that I have a passion for selling things! For this reason, I decided to pursue my next chapter at BCIT for their Marketing Management program.
Where do issues of inclusion find a place in your life or at work?
At Thunderbird Community Centre we serve lunch to individuals that have been marginalized in the community. The lunch program that I volunteer at encourages seniors with lower economic status to reach out and become involved in their community. This program also invites guest speakers to educate seniors about living a holistic lifestyle, which encompasses social, mental, and physical well-being.
What is your proudest moment as a Kinesiology student?
I am a transfer student from Capilano University, so I did my first 2 years of my undergrad at CapU and finished my remaining 2 years at UBC. One of my proudest moments as a Kinesiology student is graduating from CapU with a diploma in Human Kinetics – Exercise Science.
How has studying kinesiology at UBC helped or challenged you to grow, both as a student and an individual?
Studying Kinesiology has taught me how to interact and work with others for group projects and assignments. Also, I have learned over the years how to effectively manage my time since there is so much opportunity to get involved in extracurricular activities.
What tip or pieces of advice would you give to prospective Kinesiology students?
I have 2 pieces of advice to give prospective Kinesiology students…
- Live what you learn. As Kinesiology students you get the inside scoop
on how to live a whole and healthy life. Instead of just studying it, you
can live and promote it! - Try out different activities, jobs, clubs, and volunteer opportunities in
your undergrad. Essentially, trying out different things can potentially
help you figure out what you want to do later and realize what your
passion is.
2022 KIN Graduating Student Spotlight: Jefferson Erome
Jefferson Erome
Degree: 4th Year, Bachelors of Kinesiology in Kinesiology & Health Sciences
Graduation: May 2022
What ignited your interest in pursuing an undergrad degree in kinesiology?
I wished to pursue an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology because I was very interested in learning more about human function on several levels (e.g., biological, anatomical, societal). My interest in human function developed over several years prior to, and throughout, my undergraduate experience. Rather than a ‘moment of spark’ that ignited my interest, I believe it developed over time due to my enduring desire of understanding and improving the human experience.
What do you hope to do when you graduate (personal, professional)?
After graduating, I hope to pursue a Master’s in Physical Therapy and continue my educational and professional career in the field. On a fundamental level, I simply hope to take my future journey one step at a time and remain appreciative of all the opportunities and challenges that may come my way.
What are some of the ways your degree is preparing you for that goal?
My degree has prepared me for a career in Physical Therapy by giving me the necessary pre-requisite knowledge to succeed and familiarizing me with the patient care process. Perhaps more importantly, my undergraduate experience has taught me to value the privilege of education, take advantage of every opportunity to form meaningful relationships, and trust that your arduous efforts are not in vain.
What tip or pieces of advice would you give to prospective Kinesiology students?
One piece of advice I would give prospective Kinesiology students is to take full advantage of the multi-disciplinary nature of Kinesiology. Involve yourself in courses and extra-curriculars that encompass a broad variety of interests; you never know what inspiration may develop from them.
New Primary Care Teaching Clinic Is Set To Open In 2024!
A new UBC Team-based Primary Care Teaching Clinic is moving forward and will be housed in the new Gateway Health Building, which was recently approved as part of the UBC Budget 2022/23. The clinic proposal has been developed by a number of individuals from health professional programs across UBC, including medicine, family practice, kinesiology, midwifery, medical genetics, nursing, population and public health, psychiatry, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, dietetics, and pharmacy.
Practice scheduling in pairs
Principle Investigator:
Dr. Nicola Hodges
Details:
The purpose of this study is to investigate the cognitive and behavioural processes involved in motor learning. Specifically, we are interested in how we learn motor skills in the presence (training in pairs) and absence of others (training alone).
We will study how people practice and learn a golf putting task across two consecutive days (1 session/day for 2 consecutive days). Day 1 may be conducted alone or in pairs and will last approximately 1-1.5 hour. Day 2 will be conducted alone and will last approximately 30-45 minutes. You will be paid $15.20/hour for your participation (total time commitment ~1.5-2.25 hours).
Eligibility criteria:
– Adult (age 18-35)
– Right-hand dominant
– Normal vision or wear corrective lenses
– No injury to the right hand
– No known neurological disorders
– No or very little experience playing golf or golf putting
– Vaccinated against COVID-19
If you meet the criteria detailed above and you are interested in participating, please respond to kin.msl@ubc.ca and we will provide further information over email*. You must also include in the email a phone number you can be reached at during normal work hours throughout the week, as we will contact you for scheduling.
*Please include “ATTN: Matthew GOLF” in the subject line of your email
Posting expiration date
06/30/2022