Held annually each February, the University of Kentucky’s Student-Athlete Development department orchestrates a comprehensive career and internship fair, called the “Career Combine,” tailored specifically for its student-athletes. The most recent event, held on February 3, 2025, took place at Kroger Field’s Longship Club and hosted a variety of potential employers.
Year after year, this event earns eager anticipation from Wildcat athletes, as it opens valuable doors to career networking, graduate school, job shadowing, internships, and full-time employment opportunities. Balancing academics and athletics through their years at UK, these busy student-athletes often find it challenging to seek employment during college. However, at the Career Combine, they have the unique opportunity to begin exploring possibilities and cultivating crucial relationships for their post-graduation journey. This year, the Combine hosted over 50 employers from a range of industries, with a record number 217 student-athletes in attendance. Noteworthy corporations attending included Aflac, Central Bank, Coca-Cola, Enterprise, and Cintas. The Combine also hosts representatives from UK graduate schools and other UK resources, including the UK Colleges of Dentistry, Nursing, Health Sciences, Communication & Information, Business, Law, and Education, as well as the International Student & Scholar Success office and ROTC.
The Student-Athlete Development department encourages Wildcat athletes to make the most of this incredible opportunity, as the University of Kentucky works to foster meaningful connections and maintain relationships with diverse employers and companies nationwide. The array of industries and graduate school opportunities represented at the Combine, ranging from healthcare to public administration and sales, ensures every athlete can formulate their plans after graduation.
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Additionally, at each Combine, employer representatives are invited to nominate student-athletes as “impact players,” or individuals who have left a notable impression during conversation. At the 2025 Combine, a total of 16 athletes were recognized as stand-out impact players. Among them, Cadence Gormley garnered praise from a representative, who noted that she stood out because of “her energy.” Cadence “really drove the conversation with her questions and passion [for marketing.]”
Another notable impact player, Ellie Boyle, drew recognition for her thoughtfulness and interest in the company. A representative remarked, “[Ellie] had done previous research about the company & asked very knowledgeable questions. [Her] resume was A+ and she brought a hand-written thank-you note at the end of the event!” This sentiment notes the valuable impression made by Ellie, suggesting promising opportunities ahead.
UK Football player Cole Lanter has demonstrated strong interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of the importance of company culture. As one observer put it, “Cole was not only inquisitive, but very interested in company core values and culture, which is always important. He was easy to talk to. Definitely someone I’d hire!” His ability to connect with others and align with organizational values sets him apart as someone who would excel both on and off the field.
