From LAU to a PhD: Advancing AI in Sport Management
July 23, 2026Ahmed Chaib, a MEPI Tomorrow’s Leaders alumnus from Morocco and a 2022 graduate with a BS in Business, continues to build an impressive academic journey in the field of sport management.
After graduating from LAU, Ahmed earned a Master’s degree in Sport and Entertainment Management from the University of South Carolina. He recently took the next step in his academic career by pursuing a PhD in Sport Management at Florida State University, where his research focuses on the intersection of sport, technology, and artificial intelligence.
Ahmed also achieved another milestone in his career by attending the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM) Annual Conference for the first time. During the conference, he presented his research on AI coaching and how artificial intelligence is changing the world of sport. He also met researchers from various universities and received valuable feedback on his work.
“Presenting my research at NASSM for the first time was very valuable,” Ahmed shared. “The conversations and feedback I received encouraged me to grow further as a researcher.”
The conference gave Ahmed the chance to meet professionals, practitioners, and graduate students who share the same interests. Through these discussions, he learned new ideas, expanded his professional network, and gained more confidence in his work.
“Meeting people who are passionate about sport management and innovation reminded me why I chose this path,” he said. “The experience reinforced my commitment to a career in research and higher education.”
As Ahmed continues his PhD journey, exploring how artificial intelligence can shape the future of sport, his story is a great example of how curiosity, hard work, and continuous learning can open new opportunities and make a positive impact.