This month, the University of Oregon's Sports Product Management (SPM) program is celebrating full-circle moments and bold beginnings. You'll meet Chris Sataua, our very first SPM student, who is now teaching the next generation. Get a glimpse into our students' real-world work inside the adidas Makers Lab, and meet the STRIKE Footwear team as they challenge outdated traditions in our latest fireside chat.
We're also calling on industry professionals who want to give back and shape the future of sport to sign up to become an SPM mentor. Just 30 minutes a month can make a big difference.
Let's keep building what's next together.
Jennifer Nolfi
Director, UO Sports Product Management Program
UO Sports Product Management
November Newsletter
Meet the SPM Alum Now Teaching the Next Generation
Next up in our 10th Anniversary Instructor Series is Chris Sataua, who is currently teaching our new students sports product line management and merchandising during their first term. Chris has a unique story. He was our first SPM student when we launched the program. Watch his video to see how he transitioned from student to industry professional and instructor.
If you're passionate about shaping the future of sports and outdoor products, this event is your backstage pass to our program. You'll hear directly from students, connect with admissions experts, and discover how our hands-on, industry-aligned approach prepares you to lead in one of the world's most competitive industries.
What happens when top students meet top brands? Magic.
This month, we're pulling back the curtain on one of the most exclusive opportunities available only through the Sports Product Management program: student apprenticeship in the adidas Makers Lab.
From concept to creation, select SPM students are diving deep into the heart of product innovation, working shoulder-to-shoulder with industry leaders to bring their ideas to life in footwear and apparel. This isn't just education, it's hands-on transformation.
Ready to see how we turn potential into performance? Meet and congratulate the seven SPM student changemakers in our latest LinkedIn post.
We're excited to announce that registration is now open for our industry mentor program.
Each year, we connect our ambitious Sports Product Management master's students—emerging leaders in footwear, apparel, and equipment—with professionals like you who are shaping the industry.
Just 30 minutes a month can make a big difference. Mentors provide career-focused guidance, share valuable insights, and help students navigate their next steps.
If you're ready to give back, grow your network, and support the next generation of sports product leaders, we'd love to hear from you.
Please contact Lesley Hollon, senior associate director of industry relations and engagement, for more information.
This session will spotlight the student journey from idea to prototype and what it takes to create meaningful, market-ready solutions in the sports product industry. Come curious and leave inspired.
UO Sports Product Management Annual Industry Event
Thursday, January 22, 5:30–8:30 p.m. PT
UO Portland Campus: 2800 NE Liberty Street, Portland, OR
Save the date for our annual industry event. We invite you to join us as our community comes together for an evening of connection, collaboration, and celebration. Stay tuned for additional details!
