Discover how Logan Wilson transitioned from a Fine Arts graduate to a key Marketing Coordinator for the Seattle Seawolves. Explore his journey, challenges, and successes in the 2024 Major League Rugby season.
In February 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my career as I joined SOAR Media as a Marketing Coordinator. My role was to serve as the second line of communications for the Seattle Seawolves, a professional rugby team in Major League Rugby (MLR). Leading the charge for Seawolves social and design, I was responsible for creating content throughout the entire 2024 MLR season. This included developing graphics, videos, emails, and texts, as well as assisting with public relations. The experience has been nothing short of exhilarating, and I owe a great deal of gratitude to Olivia Malifa and Anton Forbes-Roberts for this incredible opportunity. Collaborating with the entire SOAR Media team and the Seattle Seawolves has truly been a dream come true.
Discovering My Passion for Marketing
In May 2023, I graduated from Washington State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts, focusing on Digital Technology & Culture. Throughout my time in college, I knew I wanted to pursue a career that involved design, video production, and something ultimately creative. However, I never anticipated that marketing would be where I found my true calling.
As my college years were drawing to a close, I began considering career paths that aligned with my interests. That’s when I discovered marketing—a field that not only combined my passion for creativity but also allowed me to capitalize on my strengths while improving in areas where I was less confident. After about six months of job searching, I came across a position at SOAR Media that required experience with rugby. It felt like the perfect fit for me, and I eagerly applied.
Joining SOAR Media and the Seattle Seawolves
Securing the role with SOAR Media was a pivotal moment in my career. From the start, I was welcomed into a dynamic and supportive environment where I was given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully. My initial responsibilities involved a range of tasks, from creating engaging content, supporting graphic design needs, developing multi-channel communications and dabbling in public relations efforts.
The excitement of working with a professional rugby team like the Seattle Seawolves was palpable. Rugby, though somewhat new to me, quickly became a sport I deeply appreciated. The combination of my newfound passion for marketing and the thrilling atmosphere of Major League Rugby made my role at SOAR Media an immensely rewarding experience.
My Introduction to Rugby
Although I had never played rugby competitively, I had some exposure to the sport through my sister, who played for the Western Washington University Rugby team. About three years ago, she introduced me to the fundamentals of the game, including its unique scoring system. She was even slated to play internationally in 2020, but the pandemic disrupted those plans. Despite not fully connecting with the sport at that time, the opportunity to work with the Seattle Seawolves reignited my interest, and I knew this job was suited for me.
Pre-Season Preparations
In early February, I attended my first preseason match, accompanied by Moriah and Olivia, who helped me understand the finer details of rugby. They also introduced me to the front office team and gave me a tour of Starfire Stadium. It was a surreal experience, especially since I had played various sports at Starfire Stadium with my sisters as a child. Now, working at the same venue felt like coming full circle, and I was excited to dive into the world of professional rugby.
The Major League Rugby 2024 Season
As the 2024 MLR season kicked off, my responsibilities expanded significantly. I became responsible for managing social media content across multiple platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter (X), and TikTok. This season we garnered 10 million impressions, an increase of followers by 283% compared to 2023 and the highest user engagement has ever been across Seawolves social media. Additionally, I assisted in marketing meetings, contributed to email and text campaigns, and helped with website management. My role quickly evolved into that of a jack of all trades, where I was constantly tested and had ample opportunities to improve my skills.
As the season progressed, my desire to enhance my capabilities grew stronger. This motivation led me to invest in a DSLR video camera and lenses to better capture high-quality content. The support from SOAR Media and my commitment to growth allowed me to produce content that I was genuinely proud of.
Memorable Moments from the Season
The 2024 MLR season was filled with unforgettable moments. Visiting Seattle Children’s Hospital with the team was a particularly moving experience. I also enjoyed attending practices and gym sessions, where I got to know the players on a personal level. The energy and enthusiasm of the fans at matches were infectious, and I felt privileged to be a part of it all.
Working with SOAR Media, the Seawolves front office, and the Seawolves staff made me feel like I was part of a larger family. The camaraderie and welcoming atmosphere created a great work environment, one that made every challenge feel rewarding.
Playoffs and the Western Conference Championship
The Seawolves finished the MLR 2024 season in second place, narrowly losing to the Houston Sabercats, who were expected to be our toughest opponents. However, in a surprising turn of events, the Sabercats were defeated in the playoffs by the underdog Dallas Jackals. This unexpected outcome allowed us to host two consecutive home playoff matches, which we had to market and sell out with just three weeks’ notice for the first match and one week for the second.
The pressure was intense, but SOAR Media rose to the challenge, executing successful marketing campaigns that led to sold-out games. The Seawolves went on to become the Western Conference Champions, and celebrating with the team after the final home match of the season was a highlight of my career. Reflecting on the journey from preseason to playoffs, I realized how much my content creation skills had improved, and I felt immense gratitude for the opportunity to work with such a dedicated team.
The Major League Rugby Championship Experience
The culmination of the season took me to San Diego for the Major League Rugby Championship on August 4th, 2024. This was my first time in California, and the trip was memorable for many reasons. Although we didn’t win the championship match, the experience was incredibly fulfilling. Seeing the locker room in good spirits after the game, sharing laughs with the players, and witnessing the strong support from our fans made me feel like I was part of something truly special.
One moment that stood out was Coach Clarke’s post-game speech. His words were powerful and left a lasting impression on me. They motivated me to continue honing my design, videography, and management skills, with the hope of leading a marketing team someday. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of the entire SOAR Media team, for which I am deeply grateful.
Reflections and Gratitude
Looking back on my journey with SOAR Media and the Seattle Seawolves, I am filled with a deep sense of accomplishment and gratitude. This experience has not only shaped my career but also contributed significantly to my personal growth. The lessons I’ve learned, the skills I’ve developed, and the relationships I’ve built will continue to guide me as I move forward in my career.
I’ve come to understand the true meaning behind the Seawolves’ slogan, “Together We Hunt.” It’s a reminder that success is a collective effort—one that’s made possible through teamwork, dedication, and mutual support. Alone, nothing is possible, but together, everything is.
My first year with SOAR Media and the Seattle Seawolves has been a transformative experience, one that I will carry with me throughout my career. From the early days of discovering my passion for marketing to the high-pressure moments of the MLR playoffs, every step of this journey has contributed to my growth as a professional and as an individual. I look forward to the future with excitement and determination, knowing that I have the skills and support to achieve my goals.
Chris Lawton, SOAR's web development expert, brings over 39 years of experience in information technology. Chris served as the architect and director of IT and Enterprise Architecture for a US company in the US and Europe, where he was responsible for business systems across the continent. He led the team in implementing innovative solutions that streamlined business processes and improved efficiency. Additionally, Chris worked at Coca-Cola in Atlanta, where he was the architect developing and implementing strategies that enhanced website performance and ensured optimal user experience for 650 global websites and their infrastructure.
SOAR got its start with its Aussie founder, Olivia Malifa. Olivia has over 18 years of experience in the marketing industry. She has worked in all capacities and from all angles, serving as a marketing manager in both corporate and private businesses for over a decade before starting her own successful consultancy firm. Through her work in agency, Olivia discovered her true passion for combining creativity and strategy to serve a diverse range of clients across multiple industries.
SOAR's co-founder and COO, Anthony 'Anton' Forbes-Roberts is an executive, advisor and investor with over twenty-five years of leadership in Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurial ventures, and nonprofits. His marketing experience includes leadership positions at Ogilvy Worldwide and Carlson Companies, in a career where he has designed, built, and/or sold programs driving over $500M in annual revenue. Anton's expertise in strategy & operations helps SOAR Media build, support and optimize its unique 'one stop' marketing services model on behalf of its clients.
Andrew Armanasco is a key member of the SOAR team, specializing in new business development, account management, and relationship management. Andrew holds a degree in Business from Tulsa University and has been in the industry for several years. He has worked throughout the Americas and the European Union, helping businesses with community development, land acquisition, manufacturing, expansion, sales, and distribution.
Behind every successful brand is one fundamental element: engaging experiences. As an Atlanta-native, Brand Marketing Strategist (Senior Account Manager), Kate Kisner has 13+ years of developing world-class events, acquisitions, brand concepts, and launches. Adept at developing methods to enhance visibility and market share by turning followers into clients, out-earning competitors, and increasing profit margins with forward-thinking, holistic brand experiences.
Moriah Deal is SOAR’s account manager with an impressive background in all areas of Public Relations and Marketing. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Science from Kennesaw State University, with a minor in Marketing. Since then, she has brought her skills to many industries. Moriah has written Healthcare PR copy with WellStar and the Georgia Pharmacy Association, done digital marketing for a carpet manufacturer that targeted Commercial Event and Hospitality spaces, facilitated social media marketing for a non-profit, and worked in graphic design and event management for a plumbing marketing department.
Delfina Booth is an interdisciplinary professional who excels in writing, marketing, and social media. She received her Bachelor's in Literature, Media, and Communication and Master's in Global Media and Communications from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Delfina is always creating; her academic background includes building two fantasy computer games, directing three short films, and studying abroad in Mexico City twice.
Logan Wilson brings a wealth of marketing expertise to SOAR Media, where he excels in crafting impactful strategies and innovative campaigns. As the Marketing Coordinator for the Seattle Seawolves, Logan handles social media, advertising, promotional design, sponsorships, and data analysis to drive marketing success. Combining his marketing skills with a deep passion for sports, fueled by his sister’s rugby career, Logan thrives on the excitement of game days and engaging fans. His dedication to excellence in every project reflects his commitment to both the sport and his role.
With a BFA in Visual Communication Design from Herron School of Art & Design at Indiana University, Essence Jones brings over 8 years of experience in both digital and print media to her role as Junior Graphic Designer at SOAR. Essence is known for her creative storytelling ability and her knack for translating complex ideas into visually compelling designs. Her can-do spirit and positive attitude make her an invaluable part of the team, always ready to tackle new challenges with enthusiasm and innovation.