Abilene Christian University has launched a master’s program that has already caught the attention of leaders in the sports world. 

On Aug. 20, class begins for ACU’s first cohort in its Master of Science in Sports Leadership program. The program focuses on teaching participants to become standout leaders within the sports industry. Through core courses in communication, team development, preventive injury care and personal leadership styles, participants will gain an understanding of the nuances of sports leadership, including analytics, administration and coaching. 

One of the first to join the program is Del Matthews, Vice President of Baseball Development at Major League Baseball. Matthews is heading into his ninth season in the role and his 23rd season with MLB. He was an inaugural participant in MLB’s prestigious Executive Development Program, a two-year rotational assignment in the Commissioner’s Office designed to cultivate Baseball Executives of the future. 

Matthews may already be highly skilled in his field, but he aims to become an even more effective professional and leader. Obtaining a master’s from ACU’s program will allow him to do just that. 

“From an experience- in-the-field standpoint, I feel like I have my master’s — but I don’t have the degree to go with it,” Matthews said. “From a business standpoint, I am looking forward to learning more and learning from others and putting the concepts from the curriculum into practice.” 

ACU’s strong partnerships with major sports organizations, including the Texas Rangers, piqued Matthews’ interest in the program. Through those connections, the university is already well-equipped at creating relevant, timely and integral education programs within the sports community. The program is unique in that it is not just a business program; the emphasis is truly on leadership.

The program, led by Dr. Daryl L Jones, vice president of ACU’s Sports Leadership and Learning division, is designed with the working professional in mind. However, the program is not just for those already in a sports management role. The pace, flexible learning environment and diversity in topics makes it ideal for anyone with a passion for the sports world. Since the program is online, it is also flexible enough for different schedules, but includes group work that keeps it from being a solitary experience. 

“You’re kind of doing your own thing, but we definitely make sure that there are integrated and engaged sessions with your cohort and subject matter experts,” Jones said. 

Despite a busy work schedule, traveling and a family at home, Matthews knows he can handle the course load with a little time management. But going back to school for the first time since 2004 can be a little daunting. 

“There is a little bit of trepidation when I think about going back to school,” he said. “But I think the way the schedule is set up, one class for seven weeks, makes a lot of sense. And I think that’s something I’m able to do and blend in with my family and work life and travel. I’m just excited to be able to tackle my next endeavor and do it wholeheartedly.”

He urged others to have the same confidence in themselves. For those who worry the time to pursue their goals has passed, it’s never too late, he said. 

“That’s something that I’m going to hold on to and remind myself to just keep myself inspired, you know, as I continue to pursue new avenues and opportunities,” he said. 

The Sport’s Leadership master’s program is now accepting applications for fall 2024. You can apply online at acu.edu/sports-leadership.