In a nearly sold-out SoFi Stadium, the Los Angeles Chargers got off to a great start against the Las Vegas Raiders, on October 1, 2023, scoring their first touchdown in the opening possession, . dominating throughout the game, and eventually claiming the ‘W’ with a final score of 23-17.
While the game was exciting as the Raiders made a strong attempt to overcome the Chargers, I remained confident that they would hold onto the lead, so I began to focus on some of the event staff that seemed to be everywhere, assisting sports fans with directions, information and exceptional customer service.
While the names of the Contemporary Services Corporation (CSC) staff I spoke with will remain anonymous, it was a pleasure learning what they most enjoyed about their individual assignments during SoFi Stadium and other venue events. Thousands of workers descend on SoFi Stadium each gameday to work a variety of roles including concessions, merchandise, guest experience, and security. CSC is used by various sports and entertainment venues around Los Angeles, enabling staff to work multiple hours and enjoy flexible scheduling. Additional incentives include increased weekend pay rates.
The first CSC worker I encountered was positioned at the entrance to the Press Box and she explained that this was her primary duty station during Chargers games. She preferred it because it was away from the crowd, noise, and hustle and bustle of the regular game attendees. The press professionals, she explained, offer a more professional attitude and demeanor and she does not have to deal with the occasionally overly-imbibed fan or loud and boisterous patron.
She explained that she enjoys the mere experience of being a part of some of the most exciting events in Los Angeles, including the Chargers Games. The interaction with the press professionals is always positive, she said, and I have a television monitor close by so that I can keep an eye on what is happening during the game or other event.
I next encountered a CSC worker positioned on Level 1 at the entrance to the playing field. While he politely explained that I did not have access to this level, he explained that it was his first day and he enjoyed participating in this NFL experience. Working in a restricted area, he also enjoyed not having to deal with the general public, in contrast to my next CSC worker who was posted in front of one of the public elevators.
She too enjoyed her interaction with the fans and the opportunity to help people. She said that her job was to provide excellent customer service and serve as the ‘eyes and ears’ for the security team. Her role is completely hands-off and she is poised to summon security if anyone gets out of control and is engaging in any activity that is unsafe or dangerous to anyone.
My final CSC worker was posted at the entrance to the Toyota Racing Division (TRD) Pro Club, an exclusive area where patrons pay as much as $1,200 per ticket for first class food and beverages, upgraded, cushioned seats, complimentary parking, and an excellent view of the playing field. She most enjoys the friendly, smiling faces and attitudes of the patrons who have availed themselves to the luxury the TRD Pro Club provides. It seems as though the patrons here do not mind paying a little more to distinguish themselves from the non-exclusive general admission public.
Whomever you talk to at the Los Angeles Chargers home games at SoFi Stadum, you will, no doubt, encounter an amazing CSC Staff Member. And, in closing, congratulations Chargers, 24-17!
