summit
United Center | Friday, April 17
THE END OF A SEASON CAN FEEL UNCERTAIN. IT DOESN’T HAVE TO.
THE NEXT GAME SUMMIT BRINGS TOGETHER ATHLETES, EXECUTIVES, AND BUILDERS FOR A FULL DAY FOCUSED ON WHAT COMES AFTER COMPETITION — CAREER DIRECTION, WELLNESS, COMMUNITY, AND ACTIONABLE NEXT STEPS.
Session highlights
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Hear from professional athletes as they pull back the curtain on life after college sports — how their world has shifted, what they’ve seen happen to teammates along the way, and how they’re thinking about life after the final season.
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A candid conversation with a nutritionist on how diet and wellness routines evolve after college athletics — and why they matter for your continued health and performance.
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This isn’t just stretching — it’s performance longevity. A guided mobility session designed to help you unlock range of motion, prevent injury, and keep your body game-ready for the long haul. Train durability now.
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Hear from recent grads who’ve lived the transition from college athletics to the real world. They’ll share honest stories, lessons learned, and practical advice on navigating identity, finding your career path, and building a balanced life after sport.
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A behind-the-scenes look at an iconic venue.
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Gain insights from top industry leaders as they share their own journeys — from first steps to big successes — and offer unique perspectives into hiring the next generation of professionals.
speakers & panelists
Check out last year’s speakers and panelists.
Chloe Marotta
Marquette University | Basketball
Sports Analyst @ BIG EAST Conference
LINKEDIN
Malia Pivec
University of Oregon | Track & Field
Basketball & Lifestyle @ Nike
LINKEDIN
Joe Myrha
Air Force Academy | Football
COO @ United Center
LINKEDIN
Tom Finke
University of Virginia | Track & Field
Retired CEO and Executive Board Member
LINKEDIN
Adrienne Biddings
University of Miami (FL) | Basketball
Head of Testing, Research and External Engagement @ Google
LINKEDIN
Annie Cazares
Purdue University | Track & Field
VP Strategy & Development @ 1901 Project
LINKEDIN
Makenzie Fancher
Christopher Newport | Basketball
Senior Manager, Innovation @ Legends
LINKEDIN
Jenny Kaufman
The Ohio State University
Breathwork and Yoga Coach
WEBSITE
Maezelle Millan
Claremont McKenna College | Basketball
Senior Data Analyst @ Chicago Bulls
LINKEDIN
Emily Krall
Miami University (OH)
Head of Platform @ Cartan Capital
LINKEDIN
Lamar Butler
Depaul University | Basketball
SVP @ The Legacy Wealth Group
LINKEDIN
Mel Muoio
Depaul University, | WBB Manager
Vice President, Design Strategy @ United Center
LINKEDIN
Carsen Casica
Depaul University
Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach
WEBSITE
Zach Gordon
University of South Carolina
#LinkedInSport Mentor @ LinkedIn
LINKEDIN
Kalia Butler
Depaul University, | WBB Manager
Sideline Reporter
LINKEDIN
register now
Sign up here to secure your spot for the Next Game Summit on April 17, 2026.
FAQs
Where is it?
The event is at the United Center — 1901 W Madison St, Chicago. Enter through the East Atrium. We’ll have signs and greeters to guide you.
Where should I park?
UPDATE: Use Lot H - just tell the gate your name you’re on the list - and enter the United Center through the east atrium in the H Lot and the east atrium entrance.
Lot K is also available.
What time should I be there?
Check-in opens at 7:15 AM. Programming starts at 8:00 AM. You’ll want time to eat, settle in, and meet people before we begin.
We know you have other obligations - if you plan on arriving late just let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Do I need to bring anything?
Nope. We’ve got notebooks, pens, water bottles, and everything else you’ll need. Just bring yourself.
What should I wear?
Wear team travel gear. There will be a mix of movement and professional networking opportunities and we want your best foot forward for both.
What’s the Happy Hour?
Starting at 5:30 PM, we’ll close out with a chance to meet professionals from various Chicago companies and connect with fellow athletes. There will be snacks, music, and space to connect. Ends around 7:30 PM.
Other questions?
Email kelly@thenovafoundation.org
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