Guest Speaker Bill Popp

Bill Popp visited with our class today, Friday Oct. 19, and shared with us some interesting information with us. He is currently the athletic director and head baseball coach here at Reinhardt. He communicated with us the details of his job and how he is working to grow and adapt our program.

He got his start at Kennesaw State University, where he majored in sports studies and played on the baseball team. During his senior year he took a position as a volunteer assistant for the Oglethorpe University baseball team. In the following year, the coach left and Popp was named the new head coach. After an extensive period at Oglethorpe he made his way to Reinhardt. He was named the head baseball coach and athletic director. He started the baseball program from the ground up, and since has grown the athletic program immensely. Currently, at Reinhardt there are 240 student athletes which make up about one fourth of the schools total population. He was also present for the transition of our program moving from a junior college to a four year NAIA school. Also, he played a vital role in our conference change, from the SSAC to the AAC. Currently, he is part of a committee that is reviewing the possibility of our school building a football program, along with a track and field program.

As the athletic director of our program he has a lot of vital responsibilities. During his time here, he has made a lot of strides to grow our program, and has taken numerous steps to ensure our program is successful. For example, he has developed a mission statement which specifies our overall goals and direction. Also, he manages the budget, handles scholarships, and files financial reports for the program. Without a doubt, there is a lot that goes into his job and I find it amazing that he is able to keep up.

Internship/ Career Opportunities 6-10

I found a lot of interesting choices in my second search for future jobs. I tried to find a diverse mix that really interests me and that I would enjoy. All in all, any of these jobs would be great for me.  It just comes down to finding the ones that I am qualified for, coming straight out of college.

Special Olympics Manager of Youth Initiatives        

In this job I would be responsible for implementing the goals and objectives of the Special Olympics Programs all across the United States. Also, I must promote the understanding, acceptance, and appreciation for each other’s gifts. Some qualifications include: Experience with a nonprofit organization, bachelors degree, experience with the Special Olympics.

Baltimore Orioles Groundskeeper

With this job I would assist with the upkeep of the fields and grounds at the Orioles Spring Training facility in Sarasota, Florida. Some of the events include the Major League and Minor League Spring Training, and various other events. One must have a couple of years of related experience, ability to operate related equipment, and maintain professional appearance.

BALLY TOTAL FITNESS - Personal Trainer            

As a trainer, I would conduct consultations and develop varied and unique workout programs. Also, I would assist, monitor, and instruct clients and ensure safe and effective use of equipment. To get the job one must have a high school diploma, be 18 years old, previous related experience, and fitness related degree.

Billy Casper Golf - Assistant Superintendent        

As the assistant to the superintendent I would help manage the annual budget and maintenance recordkeeping. Also, I would help with the maintenance of the golf course and develop fertilization and irrigation schedules. Qualifications include: strong communication skills, organizational skills, basic computer skills, supervisory skills.

Master Club Builder at Reynold's Plantation

At Reynold’s Plantation I would be involved with facility preparation and general upkeep. Also, I would be responsible for analyzing equipment and properly repairing and assembling golf clubs. To get the job I would need a bachelor’s degree, a couple of years experience in the golf industry, and sound knowledge of golf equipment.

Becoming Invaluable

The slide show really made me step back and think about my plans for the future, and am I taking the right steps to get there? I realized by looking at some of these slides that I am really not doing all that I can to get to where I need to be. Jobs in sports related fields are highly competitive and I need to be doing everything I can now to separate myself from the competition. This means, taking on more leadership roles, gaining some more working experience, and excelling in the classroom.  All in all, I definitely need to work harder to make myself more appealing to employers.