Photo (left to right): Joshua Smith, Mackie Donner, Liana Shapiro, Sims Mendheim, Wyatt Swonger, Porter Mitchell
BEHIND THE SCENES—Dothan United’s success story is not complete without mentioning the young, energetic, and ridiculously cool front of office staff that are working tirelessly pre and post season to ensure that Dothan United reaches the top! You might of seen glimpses of this team running around during the games, out in the community for promotional events, or when calling and visiting our office. This team is the machine that plays a hand in all operations that relate to Dothan United; from ticket sales, to mechanical issues, to minute by minute run of show on game days, and much more, they do it all!
As a startup soccer club, this team had to come together quickly to adapt and undertake multiple roles beyond the scope of their title, and we could not think of a better group of people to do it. Their chemistry and energy on and off the pitch was undeniable, and the reason for their determination and accomplishments!
The Team Behind the Scenes
While the players take center stage on game days, the success of Dothan United is far beyond just the field. Behind every goal, every packed stadium, and every community event is a dedicated group working on and off the clock to bring the club to life. No two days are the same for this team of staff, no clock out time was set, and no ordinary work environment existed (in the best way)! The young professionals of the front office staff has been a driving force behind Dothan United’s growth.
As a startup club, the team had to embrace a fast-paced, all-hands-on-deck mentality. With a small but determined staff, each one took on multiple roles, often juggling marketing, operations, public relations, and ticket sales all at once. This adaptability and dedication became the backbone of the club’s inaugural season, ensuring that every aspect of the fan experience was seamless.
Meet the Team
Porter Mitchell, Marketing Assistant
Porter graduated from the University of Alabama in 2022 and one of the first locals added to the front office team. Porter grew up playing every sport he could fit into his schedule, so he was naturally drawn to the new sports organization in Dothan and wants to pursue a career in the sports industry.
Porter has sold over 250 season ticket sales in the first year, also handful of corporate sponsorships, and secured a few meal deal trades with local restaurants. Porter was also guiding the Point of Sale systems, working out kinks, and interacting with fans to ensure smooth ticket sale experiences. Porter attended weekly marketing meetings and was out in the community almost daily conducting operations and sales with fans and businesses.
“I have learned more my first year in this job than any of my previous work experiences combined. I have efficiently been able to promote and market this club along with the help of my colleagues to a town not notoriously known for soccer,” Mitchell says. “The best thing about is job is that I genuinely enjoy the work. The friendships I have made in the front office as well as through the business networking side of this club have made me a great impact on my life for the better.”
Mackie Donner, Operations and Merchandising
Mackie is a 20 year-old lifelong hockey player from New York. He moved to Dothan two years ago and fell in love with the city. Mackie will be attending the University of Alabama in the fall to play hockey for Alabama’s ACHA Division 1 hockey team. Mackie designs and sells merchandise for the organization, and plays a key role in developing the Dothan United brand. Mackie also leads the front office in decision making and assists in team operations.
“I’ve been extremely fortunate to work for Dothan United, we have an amazing front office and coaching staff. It’s been amazing to see the growth of the game in the city that’s deserves something like this.”
Wyatt Swonger, Equipment and Operations
Wyatt, an Illinois native, grew up playing ice-hockey and had never been as far south as Dothan in his life until the debut of Dothan United. Wyatt spent most of his time with the team at practices, games, and community events making sure everything was in place. Wyatt says he “found joy in the everyday grind that is pro sports, one day you are driving to the airport to pick up a new player, the next you find yourself setting up a stadium for 4,000 plus people.” Wyatt ensured that seeing the fans happy in the stadium every game night made it all worth it. Wyatt loved his experience here in the South and with the team, and the players and coaching staff’s day to day operations would not have been possible without him! Wyatt will continue to play hockey at the collegiate level in the future.
Liana Shapiro, Public Relations
Liana, a senior Economics and Journalism student at Auburn University, has covered a broad range of Dothan United’s visibility, promotions, and activity with the community. Liana has a strong sports background, with her dad as a former professional tennis player and an active, sports-based family upbringing, her love for sports and fitness gives her the perfect mindset to pursue a career in the fast paced world of sports.
Liana writes the articles for our website, coordinates visibility with local news outlets, sells sponsorships and organizes community and sponsor events, hosts the away team on game days, and assists in game day operations and social media content.
“There were new challenges every day in the organization because this whole thing is so new, but my favorite part is that all of the staff came together like family to help each other and overcome the challenges,” she says. “I can’t express how much fun it was working for this organization and leadership, and how rewarding it is to see the life we are bringing to the community.”
Sims Mendheim, Marketing Assistant and Liaison
Sims is a junior Sports Management student at the University of Alabama.
“Working with the Dothan United Dragons this past summer was an incredible experience. I learned valuable insight into launching a new sports organization and the behind-the-scenes work that makes it all happen. My experience with the front office staff was not only rewarding but also truly enjoyable—I loved everyone I worked with and always loved going into work. Some of my key accomplishments included assisting with halftime shows, helping fans at the soccer games, and most importantly, learning what it takes to be an essential part of a growing organization. This summer shaped me both professionally and personally, and I am thankful for everyone who made it an unforgettable experience. “
Joshua Smith, Ticket Sales Representative
Joshua, a senior at Troy University studying Hospitality Sport and Tourism Management with a minor in Events, is a lifelong soccer fan. He was automatically drawn to Dothan United because of his field of study and passion for soccer. Joshua’s job ranged from being the first line of phone ticket sales, to interacting with local businesses to maintain support, and going on road trips with the team to assist with travel. Joshua liked to call himself a ‘glue guy’ for the team.
“I’m doing a little of everything, to selling game tickets in the office, hauling merch in my truck, or even being a referee for a skit at halftime,” he elaborates.
Joshua looks forward to working with the Dragons this summer, and says its one of the most fun jobs he has ever had.
The Foundation of Dothan United: A Team Effort
Dothan United’s rapid success would not have been possible without this front office team. These young professionals, each juggling many responsibilities, made a foundation for the club’s operations. Their passion for the team and club’s leadership was evident: from running around the city all day to ensure our sponsors are satisfied, to late nights spent breaking down a game day, and much more. What made this team special wasn’t just their work ethic—it was their chemistry, their ability to lean on each other, and the shared belief in this organization and leadership.
At the heart of this team culture is team owner Steve Donner. His leadership, experience, and belief in the club and its people have been key in shaping Dothan United’s identity. Donner not only provided the resources and vision for the club’s success but also instilled confidence in every staff member and collaborator, encouraging them to take initiative. His hands-on approach and open-door policy made him more than just an owner—he was a mentor and an inspiration for the entire team.
“Our staff is young, but Steve never doubted us,” said PR Manager Liana Shapiro. “He gave us the space to learn, make mistakes, make decisions, and take ownership of our roles. That kind of trust and leadership is rare, and it’s a big reason why we were able to grow so quickly as an organization.”
Looking ahead, if a group of people can come together so well to build something this great, imagine what we can do together as time moves forward! Its an exciting thought! The team, staff, and leadership are even more excited to connect with the community for the upcoming season beyond just this article! Don’t forget to look out for the front office staff whenever you see Dothan United!
So when the players step on the pitch this season, do not forget that the magic starts long before kickoff!
Stay tuned for more exciting additions to Dothan United, including player signings and staff announcements!