The Insider's Lounge
The Insider's Lounge
Connor Oniki - Harvard Grad Turned Assistant Sporting Director Behind Utah Royals Return (S2 E10)
In this episode of The Insider's Lounge, host Chad McArthur interviews Connor Oniki, Harvard Law graduate, Assistant Sporting Director for the Utah Royals, and Legal Counsel for both Real Salt Lake (RSL) and the Utah Royals. Connor shares his journey from childhood soccer memories and a strong family influence to becoming a leader in sports management, leveraging his legal expertise. He reflects on his time at Harvard, where he developed skills that would later be pivotal in his soccer career, and discusses his love for basketball and how it shaped his perspective on sports. Connor also highlights the key internships that set the stage for his future success and recounts how he played an integral role in bringing the Royals back as an NWSL expansion team.
The conversation explores Connor’s transition to RSL and the Utah Royals, where his legal insight has been essential in managing contracts, working with agents, and building a competitive roster. He discusses the importance of maintaining a "say yes" mentality for career growth and shares behind-the-scenes insights into collaboration between RSL and the Royals. Connor also touches on building strong relationships within the industry, fostering player empowerment under the new CBA, and balancing professional life with family, sharing valuable lessons learned from his daughter. The episode concludes with reflections on mentorship, resilience, and Connor’s aspiration to leave a legacy defined by goodness over greatness.
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Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
02:04 Childhood and Upbringing
04:45 Early Interest in Law and Sports Management
07:27 Emphasis on Education
11:00 Biggest Surprise and Takeaway from Harvard
14:38 First Steps into the Sports Business World
17:55 Evolution of Roles at RSL and Utah Royals
24:30 The Say Yes Mentality
26:45 Views on Luck
30:44 Preparing for Future Roles
33:02 Differences Between MLS and NWSL
34:58 Collaborating with Competitors
36:33 From Expansion Team to Contender
38:26 NWSL Strengths and Areas for Improvement
45:39 Kelly Cousins’ Influence on Connor’s Career
48:04 Importance of Mentorship
51:17 Lessons from Challenging Times
54:11 Family Influence and Lessons from Fatherhood
59:27 Prioritizing Goodness Over Greatness
01:01:10 Dream Meal with Someone Past or Present
01:03:00 Conclusion
