4. Al Santasiere: Apply to Your Dream Team - And 99 Others

How do you turn an internship into a career in professional sports? Alfred Santasiere III, Executive Director of Publications for the New York Yankees, joins Seth Levit and Jamie Carrig to share the journey that took him from a college student trying to break into sports to more than two decades with one of the most recognizable franchises in professional sports. Al’s path wasn’t immediate. After sending resumes to nearly 100 teams, he collected plenty of rejection letters before finding his first opportunity. That experience led to internships with organizations including the New Jersey Cardinals, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles and Miami Dolphins before he ultimately landed an entry-level position with the Yankees. In this episode, Al explains why aspiring sports professionals shouldn’t limit themselves to their favorite team or even their favorite sport, why an internship should be treated like one long job interview, and how effort, attention to detail and professionalism can separate a young candidate from the competition. He also takes listeners inside his role with the Yankees, from overseeing Yankees Magazine and the organization’s publications business to storytelling, digital content and the Yankees’ official podcast. Al shares some unforgettable experiences writing about Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Aaron Judge, Joe Torre, Dan Marino and others—and explains why adapting to changes in how fans consume sports content has been essential to his longevity. Finally, drawing on his experience as an adjunct professor at St. John’s University, Al offers practical advice for the next generation: meet deadlines, learn to communicate professionally, improve your writing and take advantage of every opportunity to gain real-world experience. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate or young professional trying to break into sports, this episode is packed with lessons from someone who has built a lasting career at the highest level of the industry. The Sports Careers Coach is hosted by Seth Levit, Executive Director of the Jason Taylor Foundation, and Jamie Carrig, Senior Associate Athletic Director at Barry University. Follow for more real-world advice, career strategies and conversations with professionals working across the sports industry.