ROSEMONT, Illinois — In the heart of Rosemont, just a 15-minute drive from the bustling city of Chicago, lies the vibrant world of independent league baseball. Among the 12 teams that make up this league, the Chicago Dogs stand out not only for their prowess on the field but for their unique blend of Chicago culture and a love for the iconic Chicago-style hotdog.
Founded in 2018, the Chicago Dogs have quickly become known for their exceptional organization, a testament to the ownership’s expertise. The team’s owner, a friendly figure with partial former ownership in NHL teams, has turned the Chicago Dogs into more than just a baseball team. Their logo, a clever representation of the Chicago flag in the shape of a hotdog, reflects the team’s commitment to incorporating local culture into every aspect of their brand.
For Joe Williamson, a senior at Olivet Nazarene University, the Chicago Dogs provided a platform for an unforgettable internship experience, thanks to the university’s commitment to offering diverse opportunities for its students.
“I live and die for baseball,” Williamson said, encapsulating the passion that fueled his journey. A promotions intern with the Chicago Dogs, Williamson’s responsibilities went beyond the typical nine innings on the field. His day began well before the first pitch, setting up equipment and ensuring everything was in place for a seamless game day experience.
With a crowd of approximately 4,000 fans at each home game, the atmosphere was electric. Williamson’s role included scouting participants for the games played in between innings, interacting with the crowd and guiding participants back to their seats after their moment in the spotlight.
“If it was a 6:00 game, I had to get there at 3:30,” he said, emphasizing the dedication required for each game.
Olivet Nazarene University played a pivotal role in preparing Williamson for this demanding internship. His coursework in Interpersonal Communication proved invaluable as he honed the skills needed to approach people and engage them in conversation during games. Public Relations classes at Olivet instilled in him the professionalism necessary for the workplace, setting the stage for a successful stint with the Chicago Dogs.
“I got to see the front office side, broadcasters’ side, and the on-field side of the game. There are so many aspects involved in putting on a game,” Williamson said, highlighting the variety of his internship experience. From the intricacies of the front office to the dynamic atmosphere of the field, Williamson witnessed firsthand the meticulous planning and execution required for each game.
The internship also provided opportunities for personal and professional growth. Interacting with people not only strengthened Williamson’s communication skills, but also broadened his understanding of diverse perspectives. Rainy nights meant pulling tarps and adapting quickly to unexpected challenges — real-world scenarios that demanded quick thinking and problem-solving skills.
To secure this coveted internship, Williamson took the initiative and reached out to the team’s marketing department. This initial email set the stage for a phone call interview, during which he impressed the team enough to be offered the job on the spot. The Chicago Dogs’ commitment to providing unique experiences for their 40+ interns allowed Williamson to personalize his internship, further enriching his learning.
As Williamson looks back on his time with the Chicago Dogs, he is grateful for Olivet Nazarene University’s role in shaping his journey. The internship fueled his passion for baseball and equipped him with the skills and experiences necessary for a successful career in the sports industry.
“Olivet helped me big time. It’s not just a school; it’s a springboard for real-life success,” he said.
For more on communication internships and the people who hire, check out Samarra Steen’s story.
