Bridging the gap: Connecting sport marketing theory and practice via an experiential sponsorship activation learning assignment

The integration of experiential learning in sport management classrooms has seen increased attention due to the need for practical experience in the sport industry (Barnes, 2014; DeLuca & Fornatora, 2020). Experiential learning in collegiate classrooms provides students with the opportunity to bridge the gap between theory-based knowledge and real-life experiences (DeLuca & Fornatora, 2020). Furthermore, this pedagogy has the potential to enhance students' resumes and boost job satisfaction in sport industry positions (Brown et al., 2018; Foster & Pierce, 2021; Wanless et al., 2016). Sponsorship activation has become a legitimate element of the marketing mix and encompasses a large portion of marketing budgets for companies (O'reilly & horning, 2013). With that being said, sport marketing graduate students at a Southwestern University engaged in a sponsorship activation project for one of the school's major athletic sponsors as part of their sport marketing class. The experiential learning opportunity provided students with real-world examples of sport marketing while providing them with a sponsorship activation experience. The project received positive feedback from students including their appreciation for the practical experience.