Introducing Maya Harvey, the Football Systems Developer for the Chargers.
Tell us a little bit about what you do at the Chargers...
I am the Football Systems Developer for the Chargers front office. I am developing our internal scouting system for distributing player data to help our Scouting, Coaching, and Executive teams make informed draft and free agency decisions.
Did you always have a desire to work in sports?
I've always wanted to work in an environment where my contributions have a direct impact on the people I serve. Before joining the Chargers, I could have seen myself in aeronautics building engines or designing logic puzzles for video games. I thrive in hands-on roles within small teams, so when the opportunity to do exactly that for a sports team came along, working in sports became the dream I never knew I had.
How'd you get your start?
LinkedIn! I was really just practicing for job interviews, fully intending on returning to school to finish my master's degree, but when I met my current boss Corey and our general manager Joe I knew that the Chargers was where I was meant to be. It never hurts to apply!
What is the most rewarding part of your job and why?
Without a doubt the people and culture. Every front office in the league is so passionate about what they do and are so aligned with the mission to win championships and inspire fans. There aren't too many jobs where millions of people will show up nightly to cheer, boo, and cry with the team that you get to help build toward success every day. My colleagues all embody this sense of purpose, top down. It makes for a vibrant, joyful office.
Tell us about a woman that has inspired you and/or impacted your career today.
My high school beach volleyball coach, Holly McPeak. She believed deeply that what you put in is what you get out, no matter the goal. She taught me that simply showing up is not enough. It is showing up with intention, focus, and the right attitude that makes the difference. Having the opportunity to be mentored by someone with such a successful career who spoke so confidently about reaching for the stars always made my own dreams feel attainable.
Dead or alive, who is one woman would you want to have dinner with? Why?
Sandra Douglass Morgan. I began paying closer attention to the NFL after she became President of the Raiders a few years ago, drawn to her story and the clarity of her values. I am especially inspired by the way she has committed her career to serving the state and city that raised her, while honoring the family who supported her. That aspiration to give back to the community that shaped me is one I carry as well.
What advice do you have for those trying to get into sports/starting their career in the sports industry?
If you are enthusiastic not just about the team or league you are applying to work for, but the work itself you will be required to do, you will go far. Applying for a sports job for the sake of working in sports will not open as many doors if you have no idea about what kind of work makes you happy. Have an open mind!
