Lucas Christiansen, a 2014 graduate of South Whidbey High School, is currently the assistant general manager of Johnson City, Tenn. amateur soccer team Tri-Cities FC.

Christiansen, 20, is graduating from Eastern Tennessee State University summa cum laude this spring with a bachelor’s degree in sports management. Following his graduation, Christiansen plans to pursue a master’s degree in sports management in the fall.

Christiansen began working for Tri-Cities FC in the summer of 2016 as an intern. His quality of work and genuine interest in wanting to continue working for the soccer club made an impression on the team’s management. Christiansen also gained ample experience working in Eastern Tennessee State’s athletic department with football and basketball. Since the summer of 2016, he’s worked his way up the management ladder.

Christiansen fulfills a variety of roles, but is primarily responsible for game-day operations and player scouting.

“It’s an exciting opportunity,” Christiansen said. “I’ve always wanted to work in professional sports. It’s gotten my foot in the door, and I see all the operations that go into it.”

Christiansen’s mother and stepfather are Whitney and Grant Lancaster of Langley. His father and stepmother are Alan and Lydia Christiansen of Clinton. His brother is Larsen Christiansen and two half-brothers are Leis and Paavo Christiansen.