The Baltimore Ravens announced Wednesday the signing of three free agent public relations interns for the 2010 campaign. After an already acquisition-friendly offseason, the Ravens have added to their organizational depth with the likes of Tom Valente, Tyler Koonce and Stephanie Sones.
Valente, who returns for a second full-season internship in Baltimore after signing his tender, will be joined by rookie standouts Koonce and Sones. Koonce adds his football experience from both the professional and collegiate ranks, while Sones brings her Big 10 public relations background to the table. The creative assets provided by this trio are poised to conform to an already strong reputation set by Kevin Byrne and Co.
Koonce comes to Baltimore after graduating from "Edgar Jones University" (Southeast Missouri State) in December 2009. While at SEMO, Koonce got his start in public relations as a student assistant in the school's sports information department. His duties included serving as the secondary contact for the Redhawks' football team for three years and two years as the primary contact for the Southeast baseball squad.
The Lee's Summit, Mo., native began his NFL career as a public relations intern for the Kansas City Chiefs over the past two summers.
"I am thrilled to join the Ravens organization," Koonce said. "Our intern group plans to make a lasting impression on the PR department."
Koonce also noted that he is excited to be a part of a front office that was recently ranked by FoxSports.com as one of the NFL's best.
"The dedication of the organization and support from the fans are really impressive," he stated. "I look forward to a great 2010 season."
Sones (rhymes with "owns"), a Baltimore native, returns to her roots to join the Ravens' PR team after spending four years in chilly State College, Pa.
Sones, who graduated from Penn State in May with a degree in public relations, is ready to trade the blue and white for purple and black.
Having completed a summer internship with the Ravens' marketing department in 2009, Sones is no stranger to the organization. While her main focus was on the Ravens Rookies Kids Club, Sones dabbled in public relations when she was granted the opportunity to interview former first-round draft pick Michael Oher for an article featured in the club's newsletter.
While finishing her degree, Sones also became well-versed in the realm of Penn State athletics when she spent her final semester as a customer relations intern in the athletic department.
"I am honored to be a part of an organization that is recognized as one of the best in the NFL," Sones stated. "After following the Ravens for years, I am excited to put my skills and passion into working for the team."
