CLEVELAND -- The McLendon Foundation is excited to announce year six of the McLendon Leadership Initiative (MLI). Job postings for the 2025–26 MLI Fellows will officially open on Wednesday, May 14.

The McLendon Leadership Initiative is a year-long fellowship that provides real-world experience for people pursuing careers in sports. Open to anyone with a bachelor's degree, Fellows are placed at top athletic departments and sports organizations nationwide. The program emphasizes leadership growth and upholds the values of Coach John McLendon: integrity, education, leadership, and mentorship.

This year, the Foundation is proud to partner with Prodigy Search as its preferred talent partner. As a leading executive search firm in sports and entertainment, Prodigy will help select the next class of Fellows who are prepared to step into leadership roles and make a lasting impact.

MLI seeks applicants who show integrity, initiative, strong communication skills, and a commitment to growth. Fellows come from various backgrounds and bring unique perspectives to the sports industry. They are selected for their potential to contribute to high-performing teams and grow into principled leaders.

Since its inception in 2020, more than 250 Fellows have completed the initiative, going on to build impactful careers across the sports landscape. The 2025–26 cohort will officially begin in fall 2025.

MLI Fellows receive ongoing professional development throughout the year. Through the McLendon Education Series, they engage in monthly sessions on topics such as personal branding, financial acumen, and other key skills essential for success in the competitive sports industry. These sessions are designed to prepare Fellows to lead and excel in their careers.

Fellows will also be invited to The McLendon Experience, a two-day leadership development event set for October 9–10, 2025, in Durham, North Carolina. This event offers direct access to industry leaders, skill building workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities, all designed to help young professionals launch and thrive in the sports industry.

For more information on The McLendon Experience, visit The McLendon Experience Website.

About the McLendon Foundation
Established in 1999 and administered by NACDA, the McLendon Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to developing the next generation of sports leaders. Through its scholarship and leadership programs, the Foundation provides educational resources, career opportunities, and a robust network to support aspiring professionals in the sports industry.

Learn more at mclendon-foundation.org.

About Prodigy Search
Prodigy Search is a national leader in executive search in sports and entertainment, specializing in placing senior-level talent that drives business growth. For over 17 years, we've partnered with iconic global organizations—including FIFA, the Dallas Cowboys, New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Bruins, NHL, and the PGA TOUR—to recruit top-tier leaders across C-suite, VP, and Board roles.
 
Our expertise spans traditional and emerging sectors, from esports and sports tech to nonprofits and education. With hands-on senior partner involvement, a transparent process, and a reputation for excellence, Prodigy continues to earn the trust of clients across the evolving sports and entertainment landscape.