FIFA, Golden State Warriors, and USF: Eve Mendez’s All-Star Journey

You earned both your degrees at USF. What drew you back for your master’s?

The University of San Francisco offered me something open, grounded, and accessible. I could stay close to home and avoid the added expense of housing, which was important to me and my family. 

After undergrad, I was working in public radio at the time, jumping from stations like 94.9 to KNBR, and eventually found my way to sports through an unexpected internship with the Giants.

From there, USF’s Sports Management program made perfect sense. Since graduating with a master’s, I’ve worked for the Giants, 49ers, Warriors, and now I’m the west region fan operations manager for the FIFA Club World Cup.

What’s something people might not realize about working behind the scenes in the sports world?

People don’t realize how much happens before the lights go on. Game day starts before dawn, with careful behind-the-scenes operations. 

My current role for FIFA covers Seattle, LA, and the Bay Area. I oversee the fan journey from the ticketing emails and public transit instructions to ensuring there are sensory kits and vegan food options inside the stadium. 

At Club World Cup, we’re test piloting inclusive technologies that aim to make every aspect of the event more accessible. It’s a powerful reminder that inclusion isn’t just about access, it’s about creating a sense of belonging.

My goal is to create an environment where every fan feels informed, welcomed, and valued, resulting in a positive and lasting impression of the event.

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What’s been most rewarding about your journey through these major sports organizations?

I believe that people are the true lifeline of any organization. Teams can be successful on the field, but without good people behind the scenes, the experience falls short. If I can make someone’s day better in a small way, if someone feels appreciated or supported because of something I did––that’s success.

What advice would you give to USF students trying to break into the sports industry?

Network relentlessly. Go to events. Use NetworkUSF to connect with alumni and professionals in your field. Be clear about your goals, and work backwards to build the skills needed for them and don’t be afraid to cold message people on LinkedIn. 
Understand that your path won’t be linear, mine certainly wasn’t and everyone’s journey is different. You have to stay flexible and open to where the work takes you. Most importantly, no one will hand you anything. You have to go after it
 

USF taught me the value of cultivating relationships, not just building them. The sports world is small, and you never know when a connection will resurface years later. Whether it’s sharing advice or vouching for someone, I try to help however I can. To me, that’s what being part of the USF community is all about: lifting each other.”

What’s next for you? 

I’m living my dream by working at FIFA for the 2026 World Cup. This was always a personal goal, and I feel grateful to be here. I’ve always said I’d love to work at the Olympics, and with the Los Angeles 2028 Games on the horizon, that’s a real possibility.

As a single mom, my son is my top priority. Any next step has to align with being present for him. I am confident that the right opportunity would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the success of a team and an organization bringing both commitment and perspective shaped by my personal and professional journey.

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