USA Hockey announced Tuesday that it is accepting applications for the ninth annual Brian Fishman Internship, to be awarded to an outstanding college graduate who is pursuing a career in athletic media relations.
The internship is named in honor of the late Brian Fishman, who served as the manager of communications and marketing for the USA Hockey National Team Development Program during the 1998-99 season.
Based in USA Hockey’s media and public relations division, the person selected for the position will provide assistance with various media and public relations projects, event promotions and publishing initiatives. The selected candidate will work with USA Hockey Magazine, the official publication of USA Hockey and the most widely circulated hockey magazine in the world. The internship term is 12 months, beginning in July and concluding the following June.
Applications must be received by USA Hockey no later than Friday, March 30. Those interested should forward a completed application form, current résumé, list of references and samples of work produced. Applicants must also submit a brief essay (400-500 words) in which they detail their interest in the Brian Fishman Internship and relate their personal and professional characteristics to those that were reflective of Brian, including determination, integrity and a love of hockey.
Application forms are available online at www.usahockey.com or by sending an e-mail request with mailing address to media@usahockey.org. No phone calls will be accepted.
“This internship is a fitting tribute to Brian’s memory, because he enjoyed helping younger people improve their media skills and excel in this profession,” said Barry Fishman of Potomac, Md., Brian’s father. “Through this living memorial, we hope to perpetuate Brian’s unique spirit and enthusiasm for life. The drive, passion and work ethic he demonstrated every day of his life; his honesty; his incredible love of ice hockey; and his concern for others will be forever remembered.”
Successful candidates will have gained substantial experience working in their college or university sports information office. Preference also will be given to those who have earned an undergraduate degree in journalism, English, communications, sports management or a related field. Applicants should represent the high ideals characterized by Brian in both the personal and professional aspects of his life, including determination, integrity and enthusiasm.
Brian Fishman passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 7, 1999, at age 28. His responsibilities with USA Hockey included coordinating on-site media relations, marketing, sales and promotional activities for the National Team Development Program, based in Ann Arbor, Mich. Prior to joining USA Hockey, Brian worked for three years in the athletic media relations department at the University of Michigan.
The recipient of the Brian Fishman Internship will be chosen by a committee that includes representatives of collegiate athletic programs; print and electronic media; USA Hockey and its National Team Development Program; the U.S. Olympic Committee; and Fishman family and friends.
Following a review by the selection committee, the successful candidate will be notified the week of April 23.
To make a contribution to help perpetuate the internship through the USA Hockey Foundation, please contact Nancy Chase at (719) 576-8724, ext. 165.
