Ryan Daniel ‘19, has deep ties to the sports industry, dating back to her days as a student-athlete at the University of Hawaii. After completing several internships with organizations like the Oakland Raiders and San Francisco 49ers, she launched her full-time career with the Golden State Warriors’ marketing department. Ryan developed her talents at the Warriors starting in Event Operations before earning multiple promotions to Marketing Manager. After seven years with the Warriors, Ryan has accepted an exciting new challenge as the Senior Marketing Manager for the Golden State Valkyries, the latest addition to the WNBA franchise.
What Dub Nation Means to Ryan
Ryan speaks with great affection and admiration about her time with the Warriors, describing it as more than just a job – it was a passion. Her fascination with marketing stems from a deep-rooted curiosity about what sparks consumer interest and engagement. Through sports marketing, she developed an understanding of what captivates people and learned to analyze why certain campaigns succeed or fail. Ryan identifies three traits that have driven her success in marketing: a natural curiosity, the ability to connect with audiences, and maintaining a creative mindset. These traits will be instrumental as she starts her new position with the Valkyries.
Putting the W in WNBA
Ryan has always been passionate about women’s sports, so when rumors of a WNBA team coming to the Bay Area began to circulate, she immediate began to investigate. After confirming the news, Ryan began to see the reality of blending her professional career with a deep passion. As a former athlete, Ryan believes the sports industry needs more women both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Working with the Valkyries aligns with her commitment to building community and advancing women’s sports.
Being in the Bay Area, a progressive and diverse region, Ryan recognized that working with a forward-thinking league like the WNBA was a perfect fit. She views her role with the Valkyries as a chance to give back and support other women, a value instilled in her from a young age and reinforced during her time at USF.
Advice for Aspiring Sports Marketers
Reflecting on her journey, Ryan emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and persistence. “Don’t be afraid to go after what you want,” she advises. Networking, she adds, is a continuous practice that can open doors to dream roles. “You never know what’s on the other side of that door if you don’t knock. If you stay true to yourself and root for yourself, there’s nothing you can’t do.”
Lessons from USF Sport Management
Ryan holds profound respect and gratitude for her USF professors, particularly Dr. Cellini, Dr. Agha, and Dr. Goldman, who provided invaluable mentorship and career guidance. She credits the Sport Management program for equipping her with the necessary skills and instilling a sense of confidence that she has carried through her career.
Ryan’s journey to becoming a leading figure in sports marketing is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and strong educational foundation. Her story is an inspiring example of how passion, coupled with the right guidance and opportunities, can lead to remarkable achievements. As she steps into her new role, Ryan continues to embody the values of excellence and community spirit, making her a role model for aspiring marketers and women in the sports industry.