Savannah Foster

Partner and VP Client Relations- Athletes First

“Your journey from receptionist to Partner at Athletes First is a powerful example of what can happen when hustle meets heart. The way you approach client relations—with such a holistic, family-first mindset—shows just how expansive the definition of “support” can be in this industry. The Von Miller chapter is a standout.

Helping shape the brand of a Super Bowl MVP isn’t just a milestone—it’s a masterclass in trust, timing, and strategic vision. And your thoughts on mentorship are refreshing: you didn’t wait for one, you became one. That leadership mindset is clear throughout your answers.

Totally agree that there’s no clean work-life balance in this space—just a constant blending. The fact that your family and clients are all part of the same orbit is very real and speaks to how personal this business can be.

And as for fun facts—3 kids under 6? That’s a highlight reel of its own.”

– Zara Halabu

Please describe your role & responsibilities at that position ?

I’m primarily responsible for overseeing our Client Relations Department to manage all off-field matters for our clients and their families ranging from relocation, travel, philanthropy, medical assistance, party planning/support and much more. I am also a NFLPA Certified Contract Advisor and assist our football recruiting team with landing top NFL prospects.

What did you study in college and how did your educational background shape your career in the sports industry?

I am an Honors Scholar and Cum Laude graduate of the University of Louisville with a BA in Political Science and a BA in Communication. I also received my Masters in Communication Management from the University of Southern California. I’ll be totally honest- I feel like a lot of careers in the sports industry are largely framed by real world experience, so while I’m grateful for my education and certainly learned how to better communicate which can be an asset in every industry, I am grateful I started my career at Athletes First as a receptionist so I could learn the industry from the ground floor and learn from my peers.

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to your current position in the sports industry?

I’ve had a lot of incredible milestones over the years, but one of the biggest moments is when Von Miller was named Super Bowl 50 MVP. The few months following the great honor changed my life in a lot of ways. He and I were true teammates and worked together to strategically grow his brand and optimize his off-field opportunities. I’m so grateful for the chance to work alongside him during this special time.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in the sports business, & how have you overcome them?

I think the greatest challenges I’ve faced as a woman are the same as a man- the numerous personal sacrifices and time commitment to be successful in the sports industry is quite challenging, but certainly worth it.

Balancing a career is demanding. How do you manage a work-life balance? What strategies have worked well for you?

I don’t think here is such a thing as work-life balance. The two have blended together for me, and I wouldn’t change anything. I have clients who’ve become family and my family takes a front row seat in my career endeavors. You have to be willing to sacrifice a lot of personal time for a career in sports, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

How important is mentorship for women in the sports industry? Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career and can give some details ?

Mentorship for women in any industry is very important, but I didn’t have a formal mentor while getting my feet underneath me in sports. I’m thankful to have learned from some of the best in the business through my daily interactions beginning from my time as a receptionist, and it is a passion of mine to be a mentor and leader for young women in sports. I am involved with several mentorship programs and always make time for calls or Zooms with young women who are interested in learning about my career path.

In a male-dominated industry, do you feel women are given equal opportunities? What steps do you think can be taken to promote gender equality in the sports industry?

Yes- I’ve personally had a great experience and a lot of opportunities to grow where I wanted in my career. There have been a lot of positive changes in the football space over the past 16 years since I’ve been a part of the industry, and there are now women on every side of the business. It’s incredible!

What aspects of your work in the sports industry do you enjoy the most ? What parts do you find the most challenging ?

I really love having a small hand in the growth and development of the athletes from fresh out of college to established leaders in their communities. I love witnessing the growth in each person as he matures in his career. It is challenging to continue to reinvent yourself in an ever-changing sport climate- from content creation to player branding- the world is changing more quickly than ever, so it’s challenging to stay at the forefront of the trends.

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to build a successful career in the sports industry?

I would advise young women to reach out to as many people as possible in the industry and ask questions! Everyone has different experiences, and it can help to have a wide-range of knowledge as a foundation. I also would advise for young women to apply for internships to familiarize themselves with the business and make impactful relationships as the sports industry is so small.

What are your long term personal goals that you still want to achieve both business wise and personal?

I still have a long way to grow! I want to continue to hone my skills as a leader in the business and create new paths.

Any fun facts you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, how many kids, pet peeves, etc. The more the merrier!

I have 3 kids- they’re 2, 4 and 6! I’m so proud of them and love watching them grow.

NFL agent Savannah Foster with San Diego Chargers safety Derwin James, outside SoFI Stadium, 2020.