3 minute read
Charlotte PinC Fall/Winter 2023
From Charlotte to Duke
Charlotte's very own Jonae Benson is a key figure behind the scenes in college football, particularly at Duke University. At 25, she serves as the Associate Director of Football Recruitment, a role that combines her passion for the sport with her talent for strategic planning and communication. Benson's responsibilities are integral to Duke's football program. "I organize events for prospective studentathletes, focusing on the defensive side. This involves arranging both official and unofficial visits and engaging recruits through creative graphics, tailored writing campaigns, and coordinated messages," she explains.
A Personal Passion Leads to Designing the Play
Her love for football, ignited by watching games with her father, has evolved into a rewarding career path. Benson finds joy in connecting with Black families of potential athletes, understanding the unique dynamics and concerns they may have. "In a predominantly white institution, it's crucial to have representation in the athletic department, especially in a sport with mostly Black athletes," she remarks.
Her journey began at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where Benson pursued sports nutrition as an intern. "I loved contributing to the athletes' holistic health and gaining insight into the unique experiences of student-athletes," she recalls.
Perseverance and Sacrifice Pays Off
Benson, who graduated in 2020 with a degree in psychology, exercise, and sports science, continued to explore sports nutrition at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. "I started working at their fueling station, initially unpaid, but my dedication led to the creation of a paid position for me," she shares.
In 2022, Benson sought further academic advancement, leading her to Clemson’s Athletic Leadership Program and the University of South Carolina’s master's program in sports and entertainment marketing. This educational pursuit coincided with her her role as a recruiting and operations coordinator for football at the University of South Carolina, a position she secured in September 2022.
A Trailblazer Provides Inspiration
Benson’s inspiration in the field includes Jaelyn Shipman, her former boss at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. "She's a trailblazer, a certified sports dietician, and head dietician for Charlotte football. Her passion and authenticity, as a Black woman in sports, greatly inspire me," Benson says.
Now at Duke University, Benson focuses on onboarding the 2023 class of commits, ensuring they are settled for school and practice. Her ambition is clear: to continue in athlete development, potentially expanding to larger platforms like the NFL, while maintaining her commitment to the holistic well-being of athletes.
“In a predominantly white institution, it's crucial to have representation in the athletic department, especially in a sport with mostly Black athletes "
