The Next Game
THIS UNIQUE EVENT COMBINES ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE, CAREER DEVELOPMENT, AND NETWORKING - GIVING YOU THE TOOLS TO THRIVE AFTER SPORT
Join us for an unforgettable day at the United Center in Chicago, where current and recently graduated female athletes can connect, learn, and prepare for what comes next. From movement sessions with pro trainers to conversations with leaders in sports, tech, real estate, and more, this event is designed to help you build your personal brand and set the stage for life beyond college sports — all for free.
Event Overview & Schedule
A candid conversation with a nutritionist on how diet and wellness routines evolve after college athletics — and why they matter for your continued health and performance
A panel of recent graduates sharing real experiences and practical tips for navigating the transition from college sports to your first job or professional path
Financial literacy insights from top advisors and business leaders, focusing on how to make smart financial decisions as you enter the next phase of your career
A conversation with current executives — most former athletes themselves — on how they built successful careers beyond the court, and what they’re seeing with the next generation of leaders
A lively networking event, located inside the United Center, to connect, share stories, and build relationships with fellow athletes and industry professionals
7:00-8:15 AM: Check-in
8:15-8:40 AM: Breakfast + Nutritionist-led Conversation (Carsen Casica)
8:45-9:30 AM: Mobility Session
9:30-9:45 AM: Break
9:45-10:45 AM: Panel: Work & Life After Sport
10:50-11:20 AM: Breathwork (Jenny Kaufman)
11:30-12:30 PM: Lunch & Learn (Adrienne Biddings, Google)
12:30-12:45 PM: Break
12:45-1:20 PM: Wealth Management (Lamar Butler)
1:25-2:05 PM: Personal Brand Building (Zach Gordon, LinkedIn)
2:05-2:15 PM: Break
2:20-3:00 PM: Recovery Session
3:00-3:25 PM: Recovery Presentation
3:30-3:45 PM: Break
3:45-4:25 PM: All-Access United Center Tour
4:30-5:30 PM: Panel: Industry Executives
5:30-7:30 PM: Networking + Happy Hour
FAQs
Where is it?
The event is at the United Center — 1901 W Madison St, Chicago. Enter through the East Atrium. We’ll have signs and greeters to guide you.
Where should I park?
UPDATE: Use Lot H - just tell the gate your name you’re on the list - and enter the United Center through the east atrium in the H Lot and the east atrium entrance.
Lot K is also available.
Do I need to bring anything?
Nope. We’ve got notebooks, pens, water bottles, and everything else you’ll need. Just bring yourself.
Can my teammates still register?
Registration closed on June 3rd. If you have teammates or friends in athletics who want to join email versen@teamnovas.com or join the waitlist below and we’ll reach out.
What time should I be there?
Check-in opens at 7:00 AM. Programming starts at 8:00 AM . You’ll want time to eat, settle in, and meet people before we begin.
We know you have other obligations - if you plan on arriving late just let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
What should I wear?
Athleisure, sneakers, or whatever makes you feel good and ready to move. No dress code — just be comfortable.
What’s the Happy Hour?
Starting at 5:30 PM, we’ll close out with a casual hangout — snacks, music, and space to connect. Ends around 7:30 PM.
Speakers & Panelists
Joe Myrha
Air Force Academy | Football
COO @ United Center
LINKEDIN
Malia Pivec
University of Oregon | Track & Field
Basketball & Lifestyle @ Nike
LINKEDIN
Maezelle Millan
Claremont McKenna College | Basketball
Senior Data Analyst @ Chicago Bulls
LINKEDIN
Kalia Butler
Depaul University, | WBB Manager
Sideline Reporter
LINKEDIN
Adrienne Biddings
University of Miami (FL) | Basketball
Head of Testing, Research and External Engagement @ Google
LINKEDIN
Emily Krall
Miami University (OH)
Head of Platform @ Cartan Capital
LINKEDIN
Chloe Marotta
Marquette University | Basketball
Sports Analyst @ BIG EAST Conference
LINKEDIN
Annie Cazares
Purdue University | Track & Field
VP Strategy & Development @ 1901 Project
LINKEDIN
Makenzie Fancher
Christopher Newport | Basketball
Senior Manager, Innovation @ Legends
LINKEDIN
Tom Finke
University of Virginia | Track & Field
Retired CEO and Executive Board Member
LINKEDIN
Zach Gordon
University of South Carolina
#LinkedInSport Mentor @ LinkedIn
LINKEDIN
Jenny Kaufman
The Ohio State University
Breathwork and Yoga Coach
WEBSITE
Carsen Casica
Depaul University
Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach
WEBSITE
Lamar Butler
Depaul University | Basketball
SVP @ The Legacy Wealth Group
LINKEDIN
Programming Highlights
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Work & Life After Sport
9:45-11:00AM
Hear from recent grads who’ve lived the transition from college athletics to the real world. They’ll share honest stories, lessons learned, and practical advice on navigating identity, finding your career path, and building a balanced life after sport.
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#LinkedInSports: Building Your Professional Brand
1:30-2:00PM
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
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Industry Executives Panel
4:45-5:30PM
Gain insights from top industry leaders as they share their own journeys — from first steps to big successes — and offer candid perspectives on what excites them (and concerns them) about the next generation entering the workforce.
We have a few open spots - join the waitlist and we’ll be in touch.