Cj Phinney
Grand Rapids
Summary
Results-driven and relationship-focused sports management professional with hands-on experience in community engagement, event operations, and nonprofit partnerships within professional baseball. Proven ability to lead complex projects, build strategic relationships, and execute impactful initiatives that strengthen community connections while enhancing the far experience.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Community and Media Relations Intern
West Michigan Whitecaps
Comstock Park, MI
01.2026 - 09.2026
- Oversaw the planning and execution of a record-breaking 2 day youth baseball clinic, coordinating event operations, volunteer staff, participant registration, on-field activities, and game-day logistics for 125 participants each day.
- Directed all aspects of the Whitecaps mascot and community event appearance program, managing a team of approximately 10 staff members while coordinating scheduling, client communication, logistics, and successful execution of 50+ community appearances.
- Spearheaded the redesign of the organization's mascot and community appearance workflow by replacing a manual email process with a centralized, live-updating tracking system, improving scheduling, communication, and operational efficiency.
- Assisted in the recruitment, interview, and hiring process for mascot positions, evaluating candidates and helping in the selection of individuals representing the organization at community events.
- Managed season long, end-to-end coordination for 35+ nonprofit partners across 40+ home games, overseeing communication, onboarding, volunteer scheduling, documentation, and game-day logistics for the Whitecaps 50/50 fundraising program.
- Coordinated 10 player-worn jersey auctions throughout the season, ensuring seamless auction operations, participant communication, payment collection, and item distribution in support of organizational fundraising efforts.
- Created and maintained detailed Excel spreadsheets to organize event logistics, registrations, volunteer scheduling, and operational data for multiple community programs and fundraising events.
- Conducted business outreach and developed community partnerships to obtain donations supporting fundraising initiatives for the annual charity golf outing and winter gala
- Assisted in managing the Whitecaps Community Foundation's social media presence by creating content, promoting community initiatives, highlighting nonprofit partners, and increasing engagement.
- Assisted with photography and content creation highlighting community programs and special events.
- Adapted quickly in a fast-paced professional sports environment while balancing multiple projects and deadlines
- Executed on-field promotions and themed game-day activations, collaborating with multiple departments to deliver engaging fan experiences and ensure seamless event operations.
- Supported media event planning and execution, coordinating logistics for successful outreach.
- Engaged with local media outlets to foster relationships and promote upcoming events.
Sheriff's Cadet
Kent County Sheriff's Office
Grand Rapids, MI
01.2021 - 01.2026
- Provided professional customer service and served as a trusted point of contact for community members, handling sensitive requests with discretion, empathy, and professionalism.
- Maintained confidential records and processed high volumes of documentation with exceptional accuracy while ensuring compliance with departmental policies and procedures.
- Collaborated with deputies, administrative staff, and community partners to support daily operations in a fast-paced public service environment.
- Demonstrated professionalism, accountability, and strong organizational skills over five years in a role requiring confidentiality, attention to detail, and effective communication.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI2028
Associate in Business - Marketing
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids, MI2025
Skills
- Community Relations
- Event Planning & Operations
- Project Management
- Volunteer Management
- Event Coordination
- Partnership Development
- Social Media Management
- Marketing & Brand Promotion
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Data Analysis & Reporting
- Public Speaking
- Event Logistics
- Professional Communication
- Relationship Building
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
Timeline
Community and Media Relations Intern
West Michigan Whitecaps
01.2026 - 09.2026
Sheriff's Cadet
Kent County Sheriff's Office
01.2021 - 01.2026
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management
Grand Valley State University
Associate in Business - Marketing
Grand Rapids Community College