WIGSTEN WINS WITH 49ERS PROMOTIONS

By Patrick Lujan

There’s many facets that goes into the production of a professional sports game. It’s beyond the game itself.

Guam’s Hallie Wigsten has gotten the opportunity to work for the San Francisco 49ers for the past two seasons, first as a Promotions Team Member after graduating from Santa Clara University in 2024.

This current season, Hallie has filled roles on the team as a Training Camp Assistant and then Assistant, Game Presentation & Live Events.

Fun stuff for one of the NFL’s greatest teams of all-time.

“I knew I wanted to pursue a career within the sports industry and saw this as the perfect opportunity to meet people and get my foot in the door,” Wigsten said. “My role in this position was to enhance the fan experience through executing in-game promotional elements and marketing activities, assisting with halftime shows, giveaways, in-game entertainment, etc. Through this role I was able to see just how much work is put on behind the scenes and all the moving parts that are needed in order to host a football game, it’s one huge production.”

It was this season where she has taken on more responsibilities, becoming more hands on with the team.

“I went into preseason as a Training Camp Assistant, where I was able to assist with event logistics, executing each day of Training Camp from start to finish, ensuring an enjoyable experience for fans. I worked with various departments within the 49ers to do this, Membership Services, Partnerships, Community Relations, the list goes on…”

A little bump in responsibility has brought exposure to a side of sports not everyone gets a chance to experience, especially at the pro level.

So what does game preps entail? The 2020 St. John’s graduate and volleyball star explains.

GAME PREP

“There is a lot prep before going into a game day. During the week leading up to game day, my role includes sending out tickets to our in-game entertainment and guests, create timelines, and looking through/approving all the music that gets used during the game by our DJ’s. When it comes to the actual day of the game, this usually consists of showing up about seven hours before kickoff and running through entertainment rehearsals, prepping green rooms, and carrying out all the finishing touches before we get into the show. When it comes to game time, I am typically stage managing at the Fog Horn stage. When there, I bounce back and forth with cueing Niner Noise (team’s drumline) on when to hit the drums, and instructing/explaining what to do to our Fog Horn guest(s) that game. I have been able to work with Jerry Rice, E-40, Patrick Willis, and a lot of other really cool people on this.”

Hallie has been fortunate to expand to coordinate other aspects of a game such as the full-field flag for the Salute to Service game as well as working to coordinate fan appreciation festivities.

SEASONAL GIG – FOR NOW

So far, the 49er gig has just been during the NFL season. She’s also the Operations Supervisor at the Laurel Inn (a Joie de Vivre by Hyatt), following in footsteps of her mom Sophia on Guam.

But if given the chance, Hallie can see herself carrying out more fan-filled fun on the sidelines for the 49ers.

“I definitely do see myself working entirely in sports some day. But for now, I’m enjoying being able to try new things and see what the right path is for me.”