Mariona Anto Domingo: A Rising Star in the Sports Industry
Mariona Anto Domingo’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and breaking barriers. Growing up in Spain, sports were a constant in her life. Her father was a soccer coach, her brother played soccer, and she herself was an athlete. But for Anto Domingo, the journey wasn’t just about playing the game—it was about making a lasting impact in the sports world.
As a young gymnast, Anto Domingo reached the pinnacle of her sport, earning a spot on the national team. However, the physical toll of gymnastics eventually led her to step away. But leaving the world of sports entirely? That was never an option. Instead, she pivoted to the business side of athletics, a move that would set her on a path to becoming a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry.
“I want to be a renowned woman in the sports industry—not for the money or the fame,” Anto Domingo said. “I want to make changes. I want to make sports more accessible.”
Building a Strong Foundation
Anto Domingo’s academic and professional journey is nothing short of impressive. She earned degrees in business administration, advertising and public relations, sports marketing and sponsorship, and even completed a Master in Business Administration for sport management in Spain. But she wasn’t done yet. Seeking to broaden her horizons, she came to Old Dominion University (ODU) to pursue a second master’s degree in sport management. This December, she will graduate from the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies, ready to take on the next chapter of her career.
Her resume is already stacked with experience. Before coming to ODU, Anto Domingo worked as an account manager for WOM Sports Management, a company dedicated to representing women soccer players—a mission she was deeply passionate about. She then climbed the ranks to become an executive for Real Madrid C.F., one of the most prestigious soccer clubs in the world. In that role, she managed global partnerships with major brands like adidas, Emirates, Nike, and Nintendo. As the only woman in her department at the time, she didn’t just aim to fit in—she aimed to stand out.
“That actually encouraged me to become better, be a better person, be better at my job and try to get the most out of it,” she said. “People will remember, ‘There was that girl who was getting stuff done.’”
From Spain to the U.S.: Expanding Her Horizons
After making her mark in European soccer, Anto Domingo set her sights on the American sports industry. She wanted to understand how it operated and how it differed from the European model. Her determination and drive didn’t go unnoticed.
“Mariona’s a go-getter,” said Lynn Ridinger, the sports management graduate program director at ODU. “She’s one who is going to make it in the sports industry.”
Ridinger explained that the sports industry can be tough, but Anto Domingo’s diverse experience and relentless work ethic have set her apart. Not only has she excelled in the program, but she has also enriched her classmates’ understanding of the global sports landscape by sharing her experiences from Spain.
Hands-On Experience and a Vision for the Future
While at ODU, Anto Domingo didn’t just hit the books—she dove headfirst into gaining practical experience. She worked as a graduate assistant, handling administrative tasks and research within the department. She also interned at Excalibur Gymnastics in Virginia Beach, where she worked closely with children, parents, and coaches to ensure everything ran smoothly. These roles allowed her to build a well-rounded skill set that will undoubtedly serve her well in the future.
As she prepares to enter the workforce full-time, Anto Domingo is eyeing opportunities in the U.S. She’s ready to take the next step in her career and continue making waves in the sports industry. Her advice for others looking to follow a similar path? It’s simple but powerful:
- Work hard.
- Network through anything you can get.
- Learn.
- Be humble.
“The sky is the limit,” she said.
Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Change
Anto Domingo’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved with determination and a clear vision. She’s not just carving out a space for herself in the sports industry—she’s paving the way for others to follow. Her goal is to make sports more accessible and to inspire the next generation of women to dream big and aim high.
As she gets ready to graduate and take on the next challenge, one thing is clear: Mariona Anto Domingo is a name to watch in the sports world. Whether it’s in Europe, the U.S., or beyond, she’s poised to leave a lasting legacy.
Originally Written by: Michele
