USL Star Graham Smith Earns MBA During Title Pursuit
- Graham Smith, a professional soccer player for the Charleston Battery and the 2024 USL Defender of the Year, earned his MBA with a Business Analytics concentration from Bellevue University.
- Through the USL Players Association partnership with Bellevue University, Smith was able to pursue a long-term educational goal while continuing his athletic career.
- He views his MBA as an investment in life after soccer, equipping him with data-driven decision-making skills that can be applied across a wide range of industries.
Balancing Soccer, School and Family
By the time Graham Smith joined the Charleston Battery professional soccer team for the 2024 season, he had played for Sporting Kansas City and Memphis 901 FC, and was no stranger to hard work, dedication, and always reaching for more. His list of accomplishments in goals, clearances, blocks, tackles, and interceptions is long and impressive, with United Soccer League (USL) 2024 Defender of the Year honors in 2024. Of his recent contract extension with the Battery, Smith said, “I am looking forward to building upon the success we’ve had in recent years and pushing for more.”
That statement just about sums up Graham Smith. Always pushing for more – on the field and in his life. A graduate of the University of Denver with a degree in finance, education has always been important to him and his drive for more. That included earning an MBA (Master of Business Administration) one day. A fellow player told him about the USL’s partnership with Bellevue University, and he heard about the scholarships offered in a USLPA (USL Players Association) announcement, so applied. “It was one of those things I had thought about long enough, so once I decided to do it, and took advantage of the opportunity, I was glad I did,” Smith said.
The MBA was challenging, but it was something I wanted to do. It is probably one of my favorite accomplishments so far.
Turning a Goal Into Reality
What Smith did was earn his MBA with a Business Analytics Concentration in 18 months, all while tearing it up on the field with more than 39 appearances and more than 3,500 minutes played. “It was challenging,” Smith said, “but it was something I wanted to do. It is probably one of my favorite accomplishments so far.”
Smith talked of the time he had to carve out for study and attending online classes, and gave credit to his wife, Gabbi, for her unwavering support. “I would have to just go into another room, close the door, and leave her to care for everything, including our energetic Australian Shepherd, Border Collie mix, Opal.”
Preparing for Life Beyond the Pitch
Asked why he chose the business analytics concentration for his MBA, Smith acknowledged that analytics are the rage now and it’s a good space to be in. “This knowledge is the tool I want in my toolbox when soccer’s done,” he added. “It’s applicable to pretty much every field. Data informs insights and supports better decision-making.”
While Smith is focused on his professional soccer career and doesn’t have a specific business career outlook, he is confident his degree will serve him well. When he tells people that he earned his degree by taking advantage of the USL & Bellevue University partnership, they are impressed. “It’s such a great investment in the players and it can benefit everybody. I’m very thankful that they have it,” Smith concluded.
USL and Bellevue University Partnership
Since 2021, the United Soccer League (USL) and Bellevue University have awarded more than 150 scholarships to players and staff while expanding access to tuition assistance for club and league employees, season ticket members, and family members of coaches, players, and staff.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).