Natalia Ponce
Pflugerville,TX
Summary
Sports Event Operations Professional with 8+ years of experience supporting event operations, sports management, and fan engagement, including international tournaments such as Copa América 2024 and the 2026 Formula 1 Grand Prix. Experienced in event coordination, merchandise operations, customer engagement, venue support, and adapting to fast-paced event environments. Brings strong communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills, with a commitment to creating organized, engaging, and memorable experiences for fans, athletes, and event staff.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Membership Consultant
Cowboys Fit
08.2025 - Current
- Guide members through tailored fitness plans, enhancing wellness and recovery outcomes.
- Promote premium recovery amenities, boosting client performance and satisfaction.
- Recommend personalized training programs, accommodating diverse fitness levels.
- Deliver exceptional club experiences via tours, consultations, and effective lead management.
Merchandise Ambassador
Stichd / Elevate
Austin, Texas
10.2026 - 10.2026
- Represented Stichd and Elevate as a brand ambassador for Ferrari at the 2026 Formula 1 Grand Prix in Austin, TX
- Assisted customers with merchandise selection and inventory management to maintained an organized retail space
- Adapted to fast paced event specific procedures and operational expectations while contributing to a professional team-oriented environment
Fitness Consultant
Fitness Connection
Austin, TX
08.2024 - 05.2025
- Increase memberships via referrals, community events, and engaging tours.
- Achieve sales targets by promoting premium services and prioritizing member service.
- Ensure accurate lead tracking and efficient front-desk operations.
- Facilitate community outreach to enhance brand visibility.
- Drive member engagement through personalized service.
Press Conference Analyst Copa Amrica 2024
CONMEBOL
Austin, TX
05.2024 - 07.2024
- Managed press operations for tournament bracket teams based in Austin, supporting the Venezuela vs. Jamaica and Costa Rica vs. Paraguay matches at Q2 Stadium; due to the high-quality work and leadership demonstrated, was invited last-minute to work the Argentina vs. Ecuador quarterfinal in Houston to help make up for a sudden staff shortage, assisting professional athletes and major international media outlets.
- Oversaw setup and daily functionality of media zones: Media Lounge, Press Tribune, Observer Positions, and Mixed Zone.
- Acted as primary technical support within assigned zones, resolving issues quickly on-site.
- Led and coordinated press team staff to maintain smooth operations and timely media access.
- Controlled press access and enforced regulations during Match Days (MD) and Match Day minus one (MD-1).
- Supported official press conferences and post-match interviews, ensuring seamless setup and media flow.
- Managed distribution of Supplementary Access Devices (SADs), bibs, and vests to accredited media and photographers.
- Conducted daily briefings and submitted status updates and detailed reports to the Press Coordinator.
- Maintained close communication with Copa America 2024 headquarters and CONMEBOL to ensure consistent media standards.
Athletic Coordinator
City of Killeen
Killeen, TX
02.2023 - 04.2024
- Reintroduced and managed adult sports leagues (starting with volleyball) after a 4-year pause, increasing community participation.
- Planned, organized, and supervised youth and adult leagues, including practices, games, and events.
- Brought expertise in volleyball and soccer; adapted quickly to managing various other sports.
- Oversaw on-site operations to ensure smooth execution of all athletic programs.
- Handled program registration, volunteer recruitment, and sponsorship outreach.
- Provided front desk customer service and clerical support within the Parks & Recreation Department.
- Maintained schedules, tracked inventory, and compiled data for operational reports.
- Promoted athletic programs through marketing strategies, leading to increased engagement.
- Trained and supervised volunteers and officials to support program delivery.
- Participated in employee committees and supported inclusive, community-centered recreation efforts.
Recreation Assistant
City of Killeen
Killeen, TX
04.2021 - 01.2023
- Performed data entry, provided administrative support, and maintained cleanliness at recreation facilities.
- Enrolled customers in programs and processed sales transactions accurately and efficiently.
- Supervised recreation, athletic, and special events to ensure safety and smooth execution.
- Set up, tore down, and cleaned up for various programs both on-site and off-site.
- Operated programming software, managed inventory, and maintained records in line with departmental policies.
- Participated in employee committees, completed additional duties, and maintained consistent, punctual attendance.
Game Day Operations Assistant / Volleyball Team Manager
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Belton, TX
08.2017 - 05.2021
- Implemented and evaluated game day operations for all varsity sports, ensuring compliance with NCAA standards and delivering high-quality fan and athlete experiences.
- Served as Volleyball Team Manager, supporting team logistics and contributing to seamless coordination across home and away matches.
- Oversaw game officials hospitality and served as primary liaison for visiting teams, ensuring smooth arrivals, setup, and communication.
- Executed all in-game operations, including promotions, public address announcements, and music coordination to enhance crowd engagement.
- Managed the universitys hosting of external athletic events such as UIL high school playoff games, coordinating logistics across departments.
- Collaborated with athletics staff, facilities, and university administration to streamline event planning and operations.
- Supported ticket sales operations at venue entrances, demonstrating versatility and front-line customer service in high-volume environments.
Bouncer / Beer Buddy
Barrow Brewing Company
Salado, TX
09.2020 - 01.2021
- Maintained safe, welcoming environment by enforcing venue policies and handling guest interactions.
Education
B.S. - Sociology
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Belton, TXSkills
- Event Coordination
- Bilingual (English/Spanish)
- Game Day Logistics
- Venue Management
- Sports Management
- Athlete Relations
- Fan Engagement Strategy
- Volunteer Coordinator
- Crisis Management
- Staff Leadership
- Facility Operations
- Communication Skills
- Public Speaking
- Marketing Strategies
Courses
- Title: Sports Event Operations Professional
- Driving License: TX
Personal Information
- Title: Sports Event Operations Professional
- Driving License: TX
Timeline
Merchandise Ambassador
Stichd / Elevate
10.2026 - 10.2026
Membership Consultant
Cowboys Fit
08.2025 - Current
Fitness Consultant
Fitness Connection
08.2024 - 05.2025
Press Conference Analyst Copa Amrica 2024
CONMEBOL
05.2024 - 07.2024
Athletic Coordinator
City of Killeen
02.2023 - 04.2024
Recreation Assistant
City of Killeen
04.2021 - 01.2023
Bouncer / Beer Buddy
Barrow Brewing Company
09.2020 - 01.2021
Game Day Operations Assistant / Volleyball Team Manager
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
08.2017 - 05.2021
B.S. - Sociology
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor