I had the opportunity to interview a sports communication professional who was in a similar boat looking to be in the sports communication industry. Marco Peralta, current Communication Representative with the Los Angeles Angels chatted with me. He provided an in-depth perspective on what the job process was like for him, how he navigated the intricacies of the sports media landscape and advice to others seeking a role like his in the sports communication space.
What was your background and experience in the sports industry prior to entering the role with the Los Angeles Angels?
“Some background of me, I have been in the sports media business since I was in high school, working in a broadcasting role more than anything. But during my Arizona State, I attended the Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. I interned for the Arizona Diamondbacks, and worked for the Phoenix Suns for two seasons, as a broadcaster. During my time with the Diamondbacks, there was a job opening with the Los Angeles Angels. I applied for it and the D-backs communications staff recommended me and I’ve been here since August 2022.”
What was your most valuable learning experience prior to earning your role with the Los Angeles Angels?
“I think the aspect of meeting people, I think that’s what has been very special because, in this business, connections and relationships mean everything. Being able to get to know people, and then they get to know you, in case something comes up like a job opening. They are willing to recommend you, you have a relationship with people, and you have a good reference with them. Connections have been very special. Going beyond that, I don’t see it as, ‘how can they help me get to the next step,’ they’re also human beings, too.”
What are some of the typical responsibilities and tasks that you are responsible for while working in PR for the Angels?
“Right now, we’re working in Tempe, Arizona, for spring training. We are working to get ready for the season. I go to the office, get some clips of what the writers have written about the team, and then send it out to the organization. then I get our game notes ready for the upcoming game and the game roster. I also serve as the team interpreter. Whenever a reporter may request a translation from English to Spanish, or Spanish English, I usually help out with that.”
What would you recommend upcoming college graduates to do if they hope to earn a role similar to yours?
“Apply for anything and everything that you can because it really matters when you put your name out there. If you don’t put your name out there, their chances of getting the job are a little bit higher. So just get your name out there, get to know people, be a good person, be humble, but at the same time, be hardworking,”
How is networking impacted your career thus far? And how would you go about networking if you were still a college student?
“Reaching out. Social media is a gift in today’s day. So, reaching out to writers, communications people, national media, broadcasters, or anything that you want to work in. Start reaching out to people going getting better insight.”
Have you seen or witnessed the reputation of the sports media industry because of a tight-knit community?
“The fact that sports is a tough industry to get into no matter what kind of job you’re looking at. And even when you’re inside, working in sports, getting to know other people in areas you want to work in, can be tough. But once you have that foot in the door, and you start knocking on doors, it can really take you a long way. So, for me, it’s really important to understand that even though you’re working in sports, you have to still show that you want to grow and achieve these goals.”
What piece of advice would you give a student looking for an internship?
“For me, I’m, I’m a big faith guy. A lot of it is like, yes, that faith in yourself and go through the tough, tough things. When it comes to relocation, when it comes to payment, sometimes internships are non-pay or sometimes internships are very low-paid. And sometimes you have to relocate. If you want to pursue a career, show that you’re willing to take the step of faith to be able to show that you’re, you’re for real.”
What’s one piece of advice, you would tell Marco in high school or college that you wish you knew then but know now?
“Have patience. Patience and you’re going to make mistakes. And when it comes to making mistakes, learn from them. They will help you grow.”
What is one big thing that you have learned since taking your role with the Angels?
“My biggest thing that I’ve learned is that I’m no longer a broadcaster right now. I work from a broadcasting background to now working in communications and PR. It’s been a whole different type of thing to learn. When you take the time to work on yourself, grow and learn what you need to do, you will grow as a person. There are going to be days you’re going to be drained, but there are days that you will be on top of the world because he feels like I get to work with Mike Trout, Shohei Otani, David Fletcher and other players like that.”