In leadership, there are moments that transcend the job description. Those surreal, joyful experiences that make us pause and think, “I cant believe I get paid to do this.” Whether it’s standing on the field at the Rose Bowl, announcing a historic appointment, or sharing a chocolate-making experience with a soccer legend, these moments remind us why we do what we do.
We asked Leaders Club members to share their own “pinch me” moments and here’s what they said.
Front Row to History
Some leaders find themselves at the center of iconic events – moments that will be remembered for years to come.
“Walking out of the front gates of Buckingham Palace after conducing the draw for the Rugby League World Cup 2021 with Prince Harry’s last official engagement as a member of the Royal Family.”
–Matt Peden, Managing Partner, Hatch
“Telling Candace Parker, we were appointing her to President of Adidas Women’s Basketball. It was on the heels of her retirement, and we wanted to surprise her with the honor. Everyone was in tears.”
-Mia Perone, Global Basketball Director of Strategy & Head Office, Adidas
“Working on-site at Wimbledon with IMG. Being behind-the-scenes for two weeks, surrounded by the energy, tradition and global excitement of the tournament was truly inspiring.”
-Alessandro Ripa, Director, Sports Management, IMG
On the Field, In the Moment
For others, the magic happens in the heart of the action – on the field, in the stadium or behind-the-scenes.
“Supporting Super Bowl 59 with my team was something I’ll never forget. Being at one of the biggest sporting events in the world was a true ‘pinch me’ moment.”
-Chazz Lucenti, Senior Project Manager, SeatGeek
“Walking onto the field during the 2017 Rose Bowl Game just as USC intercepted the ball in the final minute. Witness that record-breaking atmosphere from the field was unforgettable.”
–Adrian Esquilin, Senior Director of Operations, CSC
“Leading a group of 28 guests to wave the center circle flag before the Champions League Final at Wembley in 2025. Attending an incredible sporting spectacle and being involved with a money-cant-buy experience!”
-Matt Harris, Senior Account Manager, Fuse International
Legends, Icons & Unexpected Encounters
Sometimes, it’s the people we meet that makes the moment unforgettable.
“On the day with FC Barcelona, I found myself filming a training session, passing balls back to Leo Messie and Andres Iniesta during a training drill. Nothing has come close since!”
-Tom Carter, Globel Strategy Director, Legends
“In my first week on the job, meeting footballing legend Ian Wright at the Cadburg Chocolate factory for an exclusive chocolate-making experience with consumers. Seeing how we can use our partnerships to bring communities together was incredible”
-Chris Parkter, Brand Partnerships Manager, Cadbury
“Twelve-time Pro Bowler and Pro Football Hall of Famer Champ Bailey is my colleague – not a client-which still blows my mind. We work side by side on a mission-aligned impact across high school sports.”
-Arielle Moyal, West Region Lead, Positive Athlete
Passion Turned Profession
For many, the most surreal moments come when childhood dreams become part of their career.
“Growing up as a major fan of the San Antonio Spurs, I never imagined I’d be able to sell season tickets during the 2014 NBA Finals and earn a championship ring of my own! That pinch-me moment transformed my passion for sports into something even greater.”
-Adam Pena, Account Manager Premium Sales, NASCAR
“When I first started working at NESN in 2015 and I was grabbing sponsored highlights from the Red Sox and Bruins games and publishing them to the NESN.com website and socials. I grew up watching NESN with my dad and brothers and never thought I would be on the other side publishing this content for a new generation of fans. Now I am the VP of Digital Partnerships & Revenue Strategy at NESN.”
-Matt Barsomian Ad Ops & Revenue Strategy at NESN and SportsNet Pittsburgh
These stories remind us that leadership isn’t just about strategy and execution, its about the moments of awe, connection and purpose. Whether it’s standing beside legends, witnessing history or turning passion into impact, these experiences fuel the fire that drives great leaders.