A Winning Team: Hartford Yard Goats and COBA Launch Workforce Readiness Program
When opportunity meets preparation, winning teams are built. Charter Oak Boxing Academy is proud to partner with the Hartford Yard Goats to launch a powerful vocational enrichment and workforce readiness program for COBA students.
During the baseball off season, the Hartford Yard Goats have opened their doors to provide COBA youth with a behind the scenes look at what it takes to run a professional sports organization. This special 10 week program gives students direct access to the business, creative, and operational sides of professional baseball.
Program Details
Guided by Aisha Petteway, Executive Director of Community Connections for the Hartford Yard Goats, students will explore a wide range of career pathways. Prompted by the community collaboration of Elite Tertiary Education Consulting, and Pamela Floyd-Cranford, COBA’s Director of Higher Learning, participants will meet with professionals from business operations, marketing, branding, and promotions. They will also engage with the production team to learn how visual effects, sound design, instant replay editing, and live game presentation come together on game day.
Students will gain insight into careers many fans never see, including production roles, announcer pathways, and stadium operations. Industry professionals will share their personal journeys and provide practical advice for students interested in careers in sports, media, and entertainment.
The program will run on Tuesdays from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM at Dunkin Donuts Stadium, beginning December 9, 2025 and concluding February 17, 2026. Transportation to and from COBA will be provided, with pick up arrangements based on each student’s school schedule.
Commitment to Youth
High school students are encouraged to apply, with priority given to juniors and seniors. Upon successful completion of the program, students aged 16 and older will be offered paid summer employment opportunities as ushers with the Hartford Yard Goats during the 2026 season.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to education, workforce development, and community investment. Together, the Hartford Yard Goats and COBA are showing students what is possible when preparation meets opportunity.
COBA families are encouraged to sign up through COBA Band by December 5. For urgent matters contact Coach or Miss Pam.
