Gabby Billing '18: From a Breck Mustang to Hockey Partnerships Manager at the Minnesota Wild

Alumni Office (AO): Can you introduce yourself, your graduation year, and share a bit about your current role at the Minnesota Wild?

Gabby Billing (GB): My name is Gabby Billing, and I graduated from Breck in 2018. I am currently the Hockey Partnerships Manager for the Minnesota Wild. My role involves a mix of community relations and hockey partnerships, with a heavy focus on grassroots hockey, growing the game, and youth programming initiatives.

AO: Your background includes playing Division I hockey at both Dartmouth and the University of St. Thomas. How did your experience at Breck prepare you for the demands of high-level academics and athletics?

GB: My time at Breck really laid the foundation for balancing academics and athletics. Coming from Rogers Middle School, the transition to Breck as a freshman was eye-opening—the academic rigor and expectations were a big step up. Being involved in multiple sports helped me learn how to manage my time and commit fully to everything I was doing. That experience gave me the skills and confidence to handle the demands of Division I hockey and Ivy League academics at Dartmouth and the fast-paced challenges I face in my professional career today.

AO: Your journey at the Wild was rapid, starting as an intern and quickly becoming a manager. Can you describe that transition?

GB: It really has been a fast-paced journey, and I feel very fortunate for the opportunities I’ve had here. I started as an intern in the Community Relations and Hockey Partnerships department, just trying to learn as much as I could. A couple of months in, my supervisor accepted a new role with the MN Frost, and I was given the chance to step into her position as Hockey Partnership Coordinator. It was definitely a big transition and a great learning experience—suddenly, I was helping manage programs like Girls Hockey Weekend, Youth Hockey Spotlight Games, and Little Wild. I’ve learned a lot from the people around me, and I’m really grateful that the organization has continued to trust and support me as I’ve grown into my current role as Hockey Partnerships Manager.

AO: What is the most rewarding part of your community work?

GB: The most rewarding part is definitely giving back to the sport that’s given me so much. I’m especially passionate about programs like Hockey is for Me, which helps kids of color try hockey and see that there’s a place for them in the game. There was one moment that really stuck with me — a young participant who had finished the program came back to volunteer. He was about eight years old and told me he almost didn’t come that day, but decided to because he knew he’d see his best friend. When I asked who that was, he said, “You, duh. You were my coach at Hockey is for Me, and you’re my best friend.” It was such a sweet, innocent moment that reminded me exactly why I do what I do. Seeing kids build confidence, friendships, and joy through hockey — that’s what makes it all worth it.

GB: One of the moments that will always stand out is our 2018 State Championship win at the Xcel Energy Center — now the Grand Casino Arena. It was such a special experience, not just because of the big stage or the bright lights, but because I got to share it with my best friends. That overtime goal against Warroad — just eight seconds in — was unforgettable. But looking back, what means the most to me isn’t the win itself, it’s the bond we built and the memories we made together. I still talk to many of those teammates, and being able to look back on this memory is very special!

AO: For students who look up to your career and want to get into the professional sports industry, what is your top advice?

GB: I’d say the most important advice is to build genuine relationships and stay open to learning from others. Networking was such a pivotal part of my journey. I remember attending a professional sports career fair where four Wild executives were on a panel. Afterward, I spoke with each of them, and those conversations eventually led to my internship with the Wild. Beyond connections, it’s really about dedication and being willing to put in the work. The sports industry can be demanding, but if you follow your passion and embrace challenges, doors will open in ways you might not expect. And along the way, it’s just as important to appreciate the people and experiences that help you grow.