Holly Arend

Director of Sports at Hazze Media

“I had the opportunity to speak with Holly Arend, Director of Sports at Hazze Media, and gained valuable insights into her role managing sports operations, from press releases to major events.

She shared how her background in psychology, neuroscience, and communications helps her approach her work with curiosity and empathy, along with how her experience with the Vancouver Canucks opened doors in her career.

Holly emphasized the importance of mentorship, advocating for yourself, and creating more opportunities for women in sports. She also highlighted the value of balance and her passion for content creation and covering games.

I’m grateful for her time and advice, especially her reminder to always “shoot your shot.”

– Zara

Please describe your role & responsibilities at that position?

Created and now oversee all sports operations day to day. Including press releases, interviews, articles, credential requests , and big events.

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

I studied psychology and neuroscience at the University of Maine. I think being curious about how other people think as well as my own experience growing up with a specials need brother gave me the empathy and compassion to always ask questions and learn more. I use what I did in my undergrad every day alongside what I learned in my masters program in communications as well.

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

I worked with the Vancouver Canucks while in grad school full time and juggling that full time. It was amazing and definitely opened a lot of doors but also taught me so much!

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

I think one is just being seen as valuable. I can bring as many great ideas to the floor as my male counterparts and I want other women to know they can be strong, confident, and amazing themselves. Always advocate for yourself.

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

To be honest sometimes I have none. But I’ve really been trying to block times out in the week to see friends go in walks get away from the works at least for an hour to make sure I can come back reset. I also recommend one weekly activity with friends or family.

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 is so important! I have to give a huge shoutout to the ladies at the Canucks who helped me become who is am today; Channing, Hartley, Cassie,Laura, Haleigh, and so many more. Having them guide me through my first year was amazing and I’m always grateful for them.

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?

I think there is always room to grow. Hiring more women in the field as well as giving them more chances to intern or volunteer is huge even at the college level.

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

I love being able to shoot games or create socials content! I found a really big passion doing that as an intern my senior year of college. I feel like both those things make me feel like I’m never working just creating. I think the most challenging part is just making sure you can break into the room and continue to grow and help others get there and give back.

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

Always advocate for yourself always shoot your shot! I’d rather hear no then wonder if I should’ve reached out.

What is your long-term personal goal that you still want to achieve both business wise and personal?

I’d love to be able to fully grow hazze sports to a level where it can do more events, activations, and charity initiatives! Personally I just always want to be able to give back and help others grow

Any fun facts or interesting things you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, pet peeves, etc.?

My favourite movie is 10 things I hate about you!