NW Valley Times

Peter Luukko, co-chairman of Oak View Stadium and Arena Alliances, recently addressed students at the Grand Canyon University Colangelo College of Business as part of the T.W. Lewis Speaker Series. During his talk, moderated by Dean John Kaites, Luukko shared insights from his extensive career in sports management.

Reflecting on his early days at the University of Massachusetts, Luukko recalled realizing he wasn't skilled enough to play for the Boston Bruins. A college advisor informed him that most sports teams were family-owned, making it challenging to secure a job. However, with cities building sports facilities nationwide, Luukko saw an opportunity and pursued an internship at New Haven Coliseum.

This experience propelled him into a successful career managing major sports venues like the Los Angeles Coliseum and serving as executive chairman of the Florida Panthers and president of the Philadelphia Flyers. Throughout his journey, mentors such as Ed Snider and Jerry Reinsdorf played crucial roles in his development.

Luukko emphasized to students the importance of hard work and leveraging contacts: “There is a great future for all of you ... if you’re willing to put in the work and take advantage of contacts.” He also highlighted mentorship's value: “We can never repay our mentors back... The way to repay them is to help you.”

Offering practical advice, Luukko encouraged students to seek internships and be true to themselves. He advised them to "find a way in" and navigate their careers from there while maintaining integrity. Mentorship was another key point: “Help yourself and find mentors. Don’t be bashful.”

Dean Kaites echoed these sentiments, advising students to be intentional and teachable rather than knowing all answers. This approach will lead them to solutions.

Luukko also spoke about learning from constructive criticism during his time with the Flyers under Ed Snider's guidance. This feedback was pivotal in shaping his career approach.

Business administration major Logan Farley found inspiration in Luukko’s discussion on partnerships' mutual benefits, resonating with his interest in talent representation.

Luukko attributed part of his willingness to help others to his faith background influenced by Quaker and Lutheran beliefs.

The next speaker in the T.W. Lewis series will be Arizona State Treasurer Kimberly Yee on February 5th at 11 a.m., held at Colangelo College of Business lobby.