When Ryan Weiss MS ’23 chose to continue his education at Canisius University, he saw it as a chance to chase both academic and athletic goals — and to turn a lifelong passion for baseball into a professional career.
A former baseball player at SUNY Oswego, Weiss earned his undergraduate degree in public relations. When the COVID-19 pandemic granted student-athletes an extra year of eligibility, he saw an opportunity to keep playing while pursuing graduate studies.
“Oswego didn’t have a program that fit what I wanted, and I knew I wanted to challenge myself at the Division I level,” he said. “Canisius University's Sport Product Development master’s program immediately stood out. I’ve always loved baseball equipment and apparel — I even designed our uniforms and practice gear at Oswego. Once I talked to Coach Mazurek [Canisius head baseball coach], I knew my search was over.”
Hands-On Graduate Experience Creates a Foundation for the Sports Industry
At Canisius, Weiss discovered a program that blended classroom learning with real-world experience in the business of sports. Courses in supply chain management, trademark law, and contract negotiation gave him a professional edge, while helping the Golden Griffins baseball team manage equipment orders provided valuable hands-on training. “My experience at Canisius exceeded all my expectations,” he said. “It gave me an incredible foundation for working in the sport product industry.”
Launching a Career in Sports After Graduation
After earning his master’s degree in sport product development, Weiss began his job search. A networking call with a family friend led to a career-changing opportunity with Marucci and Victus Sports, the official bats of Major League Baseball.
“That connection led to an interview for the Mobile Tour Manager position,” he explained. “It seemed daunting at first, but once I started, it quickly became second nature. I had been a baseball player and a consumer of this industry my whole life, so trusting my instincts really helped.
Inside the Role: Mobile Tour Manager in the Baseball Industry
As a Mobile Tour Manager, Weiss travels nationwide to bring the Marucci Sports and Victus Sports experience directly to athletes. “There’s no such thing as a typical day,” he said. “I plan and execute on-site events where players can test new equipment, see unreleased products, and get fitted for gear.” His work has taken him everywhere from the Men’s College World Series in Omaha to a three-week tour in Arizona during the fall baseball season.
Although his focus is on amateur and collegiate players, Weiss occasionally interacts with MLB athletes. “Harrison Bader came by the shop during the Mets’ 2024 playoff run,” he said. “We bonded over both being New Yorkers — and not being too fond of Philadelphia.”
For Weiss, the most rewarding moments come from being part of a close-knit team. “Most events are solo trips, so when our team gets together — in Omaha or Arizona — it’s special,” he said. “Bringing athletes a memorable experience never gets old.”
Advice for Students Pursuing a Career in Sports
To current and prospective students interested in a career in sports, Weiss offers straightforward advice: “This industry runs on relationships. The people I met at Canisius and beyond have been invaluable to my growth. Build positive, lasting impressions wherever you go — you never know when those relationships will come back around.”
Looking ahead, Weiss is excited about what’s next for Marucci and Victus, companies leading innovation in baseball performance technology. “We’re pioneers,” he said. “From our Bat Labs that scientifically fit players for custom bats to new footwear technology, we’re pushing the limits of performance. Baseball’s evolving — and it’s incredible to be part of that evolution.”
For students ready to turn passion into profession, Weiss’ success shows how the Canisius University Sport Product Development master’s program provides hands-on experience, industry connections and competitive edge needed to launch a career in the sports industry.
