BOSTON, Mass.-- Did you know the Green Monster is exactly 37 feet 2 inches tall? This is exactly what Alix Madden (Plymouth, Mass.), rising junior midfielder on the Salve Regina University women's lacrosse team is learning as she spends the summer working for the Boston Red Sox. Â
For every Sox home game Madden makes the one-hour commute to Kenmore Square and the 30-minute walk from the garage into historic Fenway Park. Â
"I am part of the day-of-game staff," said Madden. "This means that for every Red Sox home game my job is to take care of people who have bought ticket packages. Usually, they come with a tour and a reservation. I've taken groups up to the Green Monster too."Â
Madden, a business administration major with minors in economics and communications, has a passion for playing sports that shows on the lacrosse field. She also has a long-term goal of working in sports.Â
"I was hoping that this job could give me an idea of what I like to do and what I don't like to do," remarked Madden. "I've loved every single thing that I've done here. I definitely want to be in this kind of environment after I graduate."Â
In the weeks since she finished up her sophomore year and began work at Fenway, Madden has become grateful for what she's learned about the ballpark and its history as well as the team. Â
"I had to learn a ten-minute tour pitch which I just did for the first time a few days ago," noted Madden. "I've learned about all the Sports Illustrated covers that they have hanging on the walls and the players that are on those covers. I've learned about the different kinds of jerseys that the team has had to wear."Â
Outside of baseball itself, she has also learned about key ballpark elements such as the iconic rooftop garden known as Fenway Farms. The Yawkeys, former owners of the Red Sox, loved gardening; this is one of the reasons the park is committed to sustainability.Â
Despite a long commute, Madden is grateful for every opportunity she's been given with the team and loves to be a part of such an encouraging work environment.Â
"My favorite part of the job is my coworkers," remarked Madden. "They are amazing. They make going in to work so fun. As soon as I get there everyone greets me and they've been so welcoming and helpful. Everyone has been so kind in helping me adjust."Â
Working in professional sports is certainly competitive, but for Madden it's more supportive than she could have ever imagined.Â
"I wasn't expecting the amount of praise," said the junior midfielder. "I was sort of expecting one slip up and you're done but it's not like that at all. If I make a mistake everyone helps me correct it and I know for next time what to do better. If I do something well the 'thank yous' and 'great jobs' are coming from everyone whether it's my coworkers or my bosses."Â
Throughout the process Madden has had her share of memorable experiences like meeting all-star Mike Trout as he passed her office, which connects to the visiting team's batting tunnel.Â
"I got to see Roman Anthony's first at bat." recalled Madden. "I also got to see Marcelo Mayer's first at bat when he got called up, so those were super exciting. There are TVs up in the office and if something exciting happens the whole office is cheering. One of my bosses got to go on NESN and do an interview and everyone in the office watched because we're all rooting for her."Â
Baseball is in the heart of its season, and Madden is excited about what's to come in the role. She hopes to continue learning from her coworkers and mentors as well as see other aspects of the front office as a business. Â
"Alix earning a job with the Red Sox speaks volumes about her drive and professionalism," said head women's lacrosse coach Meg Malloy. "She brings that same passion and focus to Salve women's lacrosse—whether on the field or off, she leads by example and sets the standard for excellence."Â
Aside from her Red Sox job, Madden also works for Safe Harbor Marina and Plymouth Yacht Club, proving just how driven she is on and off the lacrosse field. Throughout her busy summer she is grateful to fill her time with new challenges and chances for growth.Â
"I'm so grateful that I got this opportunity," stated Madden. "It has been the most wonderful experience so far."Â