My journey started as any other SPAD student listening to Dr. Church speak in 0100 colloquia at Laurentian University. Looking back at it I graduated from SPAD over 10 years ago and lots has changed. I didn't even know what SPAD was when I was in grade 12 until my high school counsellor mentioned it … Continue reading Darby Reive: The Journey From Canada to Europe
Building Connections Beyond the Classroom: Ian Mackey’s SPAD Journey
Born and raised in Sudbury, Ontario, Ian Mackey graduated from the Sports Administration (SPAD) program at Laurentian University with a strong drive to blend his passion for sport, business, and hands-on experience. He developed a strong desire to integrate his passion for sport with business and practical experience. Throughout his time in the program, he … Continue reading Building Connections Beyond the Classroom: Ian Mackey’s SPAD Journey
Avery Chenier: How The Gate Opened
Recently, I had the great opportunity to sit down and talk with Avery Chenier, the co-host of the popular Toronto Blue Jays podcast, Gate 14. Avery and I spoke about his journey to get to where he is now, and the journey that the podcast has taken him on. I would like to start by … Continue reading Avery Chenier: How The Gate Opened
From SPAD to SVP: D’Arcy McDonald’s Path to Leadership at Scotiabank
Can you tell me a bit about your time in SPAD? I had a great four years in the SPAD program. I really enjoyed the case study method — it pushed us to think critically and make real business decisions under pressure. Back then we had these “weekenders,” where you’d get a business case on … Continue reading From SPAD to SVP: D’Arcy McDonald’s Path to Leadership at Scotiabank
From Selling Cars to Scoring Careers: How SPAD Grad Luca Nardi Drove His Way to MLSE
For SPAD graduate Luca Nardi, passion and persistence have been the driving forces behind his journey from automotive sales to a dream role with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. At just 24 years old, Luca’s story shows how communication, resilience, and a willingness to take risks can turn a simple interest in sports and business … Continue reading From Selling Cars to Scoring Careers: How SPAD Grad Luca Nardi Drove His Way to MLSE
Hustling For Hockey: Aidan Libby’s Path from SPAD to the NHL
By Shannon Ferguson, Alumni Profiles, Voyageurs - November 2025 Aidan Libby is an account executive in Ticket Sales with the Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose under True North Sports & Entertainment. He joined the organization earlier this year after graduating from Laurentian University’s SPAD program, where he first discovered his passion for the business side … Continue reading Hustling For Hockey: Aidan Libby’s Path from SPAD to the NHL
From SPAD to the Senators: Gabriella Moggy’s Journey in Sports Partnerships
Gabriella Moggy, a 2025 graduate of the Sports Administration (SPAD) program, has already established herself in the sports industry as a Partnership Activations Coordinator for the Ottawa Senators. In this discussion, we look at Gabriella's early experiences in Sudbury, Ontario, her experiences in the SPAD program, and how those experiences influenced her professional career in … Continue reading From SPAD to the Senators: Gabriella Moggy’s Journey in Sports Partnerships
Leading the game: Inside the World of Basketball Officiating President, Martin Nadeau
Respected in the heart of Northern Ontario’s basketball community, Martin Nadeau heads the regional officiating body of the Greater Sudbury Basketball Board of Officials. He is responsible for the training, the development, and the leadership of referees all through Sudbury. From being a high school player to one of the most influential people in local … Continue reading Leading the game: Inside the World of Basketball Officiating President, Martin Nadeau
SPAD to the Jets: Inside True North Ticket Sales – William Darbel
The path to landing a job in sales professionally isn't always a straight line. William Darbel, a recent graduate from Sports Administration (SPAD) at Laurentian University proves this with his journey to the title of Account Executive for True North Sports + Entertainment (TNSE). The organization behind the Winnipeg Jets and the Manitoba Moose. I … Continue reading SPAD to the Jets: Inside True North Ticket Sales – William Darbel
Inside the Analytics: A Conversation with Shady Daher, Video Coach & Analytics Specialist for the Sudbury Wolves
When you think of a hockey team, your mind probably jumps to players, coaches, or the roar of the crowd. But behind every faceoff, power play, and post-game adjustment is a team of dedicated staff ensuring every detail is accounted for. One of those key figures is Shady Daher, a graduate of Laurentian University’s Sports … Continue reading Inside the Analytics: A Conversation with Shady Daher, Video Coach & Analytics Specialist for the Sudbury Wolves





