Frequently Asked Questions
Fit & Audience

Who are these programs for?
  • The Fellowship is designed for students pursuing sport management or sport business, along with graduate assistants and early-career professionals preparing for Division I basketball operations roles.
  • Foundations is designed for students pursuing sport management or sport business, along with graduate assistants seeking focused exposure to college basketball operations.

Who are these programs not for?
  • High school students (due to NCAA regulations)
  • Current women's college basketball players (due to NCAA regulations)
  • Individuals pursuing coaching-focused roles

Do I need prior experience in college basketball to enroll?
No. Prior playing or operations experience is not required. The programs are designed both for those entering the field and those already in operations roles who want to deepen their understanding of the job.

Are the programs for men’s or women’s basketball?
The programs apply to both men’s and women’s college basketball operations.

Are the programs for professional basketball operations?
No. The programs are designed specifically for college basketball operations at the NCAA level. While many principles translate across levels, the curriculum focuses on the structure, rules, and realities of the intercollegiate model.


Structure & Customization (Fellowship Only)

There are 12 modules, including 4 specializations. How do I choose the right specializations?
We’ll decide together. In the first module, we’ll review your resume and career goals and select specializations that best align with where you’re trying to go.

What if I want more than 4 specializations?
Additional specializations may be added for an additional fee.

What if I already know one of the required core modules well?
If a participant has already mastered a core area, adjustments may be considered. However, competency must be clear, and alignment with professional readiness remains the priority.


Structure & Commitment

What is the timeline of the programs?
  • The Fellowship includes 12 modules and typically runs 3–12 months. Sessions are 45–60 minutes and scheduled every 1–4 weeks based on availability. Pacing is flexible within those ranges.
  • Foundations includes 4 modules and typically runs 1–4 months.

How much preparation is required outside of sessions?
Participants complete applied exercises prior to each session that result in tangible portfolio materials across key operational areas. Preparation time varies, but most participants spend approximately 1–3 hours per module on operational simulations and portfolio development work.


Content & Learning

How is this different from a sport management degree or class?
Sport management programs provide foundational knowledge across the sport industry. The Fellowship and Foundations focus narrowly on the practical execution of college basketball operations and the real-world judgment required in the role.

How is the Fellowship different from a traditional mentorship?
This is not a traditional mentorship. It is a structured, paid program designed to deliver tangible outcomes through applied work, detailed feedback, and portfolio development.


Outcomes & Value

Do these programs guarantee employment?
No. These programs are not job placement services and do not guarantee interviews or employment. They are designed to strengthen readiness, judgment, and competitiveness for college basketball operations roles.

What will I have at the end of each program?
Participants complete tangible portfolio materials and operational reference documents. The Fellowship includes broader portfolio development across additional operational areas.

How should I list this Fellowship or Foundations on my resume?
List either program as a professional training or educational program. Both programs were intentionally named to clearly convey their purpose and value.


Credibility & Instruction

Who teaches the programs?
All instruction and feedback are provided directly by Sarah Boruta, a 20-year veteran in college basketball operations and current Director of Women’s Basketball Operations at Liberty University.

Is enrollment limited, and do the programs provide certification?
Enrollment is limited to ensure meaningful instruction and individualized feedback. The programs are professional development programs and do not provide academic credit or certification.


Logistics & Policies

What if I miss a session or fall behind?
Scheduling can be adjusted around conflicts; however, the Fellowship should not extend beyond one year and Foundations beyond four months to maintain continuity.

Are the programs virtual or in person?
Both programs are fully virtual and conducted via phone or Zoom. The final interview preparation module is completed over Zoom.

Are there prerequisites or application requirements?
There are no formal prerequisites. However, these programs are intended for those who genuinely want a career in college basketball operations.

Can I upgrade from Foundations to the Fellowship?
The programs are structured differently and are not tiered in a way that allows direct upgrading. If a Foundations participant later enrolls in the Fellowship, the program would begin separately. However, prior experience may allow for minor adjustments to avoid unnecessary duplication.


Professionalism & Expectations

What are the participant expectations?
Participants are expected to complete applied exercises prior to sessions and conduct themselves professionally in all communications and scheduling.

What can participants expect from Sarah?
Participants can expect personalized instruction, detailed feedback on applied work, and guidance aligned with each participant’s career goals.

Will Sarah serve as a reference?
This is a professional relationship. References are considered based on a participant’s effort, preparation, and performance throughout the program.


Money & Practicalities

Is payment due upfront or in installments?
Full payment is due upfront.

Are refunds available?
Refunds are available until the first module begins, less processing fees. Once a program has begun, refunds are not available.

Can my university or department pay for this?
Yes. Payment by card is accepted at enrollment.