INTERNSHIP REFLECTION: MEMBERSHIP (NICHOLAS NILLON)

STUDENT NAME:	Nicholas Nillon
DEPARTMENT:	Consumer (Membership)

CONTRIBUTION:  What were 3 key ways that you contributed to this department during your internship?

• EELS x VEGAS 2027 FOR MEMBERS & FANS: When the Club was announced as one of the 4 teams going to Vegas in 2027, I had the opportunity to support the broader Consumer team with putting plans in place for our members and fans who were interested in travelling to Vegas. On a practical level, this involved assisting with member enquiries when the news was released and assisting the team with ideas related to member travel packs and merch designs for Vegas-themed apparel.

• BEHIND-THE-SCENES: I got to contribute to all of the behind-the-scenes operations that go into establishing memberships at the Club, such as organising member packages, as well as exclusive member events and experiences.
  

• GAME DAYS: Game days are the pinnacle for our members. I was able to support with making them special by setting up exclusive areas for our members to enjoy throughout the day and to connect with one another. I also got to have positive interactions with so many of our members at Game Day, which supported with creating more connection between the Club and it's members.

NETWORKING: Who were 3 key people that you built connections with during this internship?

• Cooper Barter (Consumer Servicing Executive) - Cooper was a key influence and mentor during my time in the team. He always made me feel welcome and took the time to train me on how to interact professionally with members and fans. He taught me the importance of clear communication, active listening, and providing the best possible experience for every member and fan. His guidance helped when handling customer enquiries and gave me valuable customer service and communication skills that I can apply not only in the workplace but also in everyday life and throughout my future career.
  

• Tiana Maruci (Consumer & Events Executive) – Tiana was also a major influence during my time in the team. She helped develop my skills and always took the time to answer my questions, no matter how big or small. She also taught me about the planning and delivery of member events, giving me valuable insight into the work that goes on behind the scenes. Her support and encouragement made my internship a great learning experience.

  
  

• Tom Jamesek (Head of Consumer) - Tom Jamesek was a great leader throughout my internship, creating a positive and supportive environment within the Consumer team. He was always approachable and gave me valuable insight into how the department operates, while also involving me in team meetings and discussions. Watching Tom lead the team gave me a better understanding of effective leadership and the importance of delivering the best possible experience for members and fans.

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING: What were 3 key things that you learnt about the sporting industry during this internship?

• Fans and Members are at the Centre of the Sporting Industry - I learnt that a professional sporting club is about much more than what happens on the field. Providing excellent customer service, creating memorable game day experiences, and building strong relationships with members are all essential to the Club's long-term success.
  

• Successful Events Require Detailed Planning and Teamwork - Through game day preparation and member events, I learnt how much organisation goes on-behind-the scenes to make game days and member events a success. Every department needs to work together to ensure that members and fans have the best possible experience. This comes alive in many ways on a Consumer-front, such as through active supporter bays, delivering premium hospitality, having several merchandise outlets set up throughout the stadium and so much more!
  

• The Sporting Industry is Constantly Evolving and Requires Strategic Planning - Being part of the Consumer team during the announcement of the Parramatta Eels' 2027 Las Vegas season opener showed me how major NRL/Vlub initiatives require strategic collaboration across multiple departments. I gained insight into how membership packages, merchandise, budgeting and fan engagement are planned well in advance to maximise the experience for supporters.

PERSONAL LEARNING: What was ONE key thing that you learnt about yourself / your career goals during this internship?

One key thing that I learnt about myself during this internship is that I thrive in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment. No two days were the same and I enjoyed adapting to new challenges as they arose. I also learnt the importance of teamwork and collaboration, as delivering the best outcomes for members and fans relied on everyone working together. This experience confirmed that I enjoy working in a dynamic sporting environment and it has strengthened my goal of pursuing a career in the sports industry.