He started as a teaching assistant and ran a radio show for athletics. With support from the Department of Communication Studies, he landed a communications internship with the athletics department. There, he handled stats, game reports, and rosters for class credit. He also assisted with game day operations before donning the number 6 jersey and stepping onto the football field. During his time, he scored 13 touchdowns and rushed for 1,041 yards with the Royals.
As he honed practical skills, he built a philosophy around athletics. “Sports can unite people, teach life lessons, and create community,” he explains. “These were part of my journey as an athlete, and Bethel only strengthened that belief.”
After graduating from Bethel, Hilbrands steadily climbed the ranks in collegiate athletics. He began as a graduate assistant while completing his master’s at Grand Canyon University. Then he returned to the Twin Cities as assistant athletic director at the University of Northwestern, St. Paul. Moving on, he took four leadership roles at the University of Washington and eventually became deputy athletic director at USC in Los Angeles. There, he manages external operations for the Trojans, including marketing, fundraising, ticket sales, communications, and managing student-athlete compensation.
Leading a large team, he supports countless student-athletes in one of the nation’s top athletic programs. Despite the rapidly changing landscape of college sports, including the pandemic’s impact, he remains focused on his mission. Hilbrands navigates topics like Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation and the rise of artificial intelligence in sports management. The changing political climate and questions about the value of traditional college education also weigh heavily on the landscape.
Through these challenges, Hilbrands maintains clarity about his purpose. “I know I’m where I’m meant to be. Sports connect people from different backgrounds,” he says. He views his leadership role as an opportunity to positively influence others. His journey has spanned from Bethel to Phoenix, Northwestern, Washington, and Los Angeles—a network of connections that has significantly shaped his career.
He values building and maintaining relationships, staying committed to his Christian faith and values, and striving to be the best leader, husband, and father. “People are always watching,” he notes, emphasizing that his actions often speak louder than words. In a world where many lack a shared faith, he believes leading by example is crucial.
Amidst all this, there are interesting statistics showing the growing influence of college athletics. A recent survey revealed that 70% of students believe college sports enrich their educational experience, highlighting the connection between athletics and student life. This indicates a significant opportunity for leaders like Hilbrands to foster community and engagement through sports.
