An Interview with Chris Mallee

SWET Tailor loves collaborating with people who inspire us and align with our values; That's why we are so thrilled to introduce you to our newest brand ambassador, Chris Mallee. Chris just signed with Wilson Management Alliance as a scout for the NFL, and he couldn't possibly be more deserving.

A man from a humble background that always puts family and friends first, we were lucky to chat with him about how he landed his dream job, how it's going, and what's next.

Hi Chris! We're so thrilled you're joining SWET Tailor as our newest Brand Ambassador! Coincidentally, you and our CEO Adam Bolden are both from Philly. Where did you two first meet?
We met at this year's Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. We hit it off instantly; he's so personable and sincere. When I found out we were both from Philly, I knew I didn't want to work with anyone else. I really admire how he's built this company from the ground up, all while raising a family. He has such genuine interactions with people, and I try to be the same way. We truly gelled, and I'm so excited about what we're cooking up together.

When did you become interested in football, and did you always know you wanted to be a scout?
I played for ten years as a running back. I was the Sr. Captain of Springfield High School's football team, and I always loved watching the NFL Scouting Combine. I loved talking about players and their stories. When I was a History Major with a focus on secondary education at West Chester University, I was planning on becoming a history teacher. Right before I graduated, I realized that this wasn't what I wanted to do. I had many close friends and family members pass away in a short amount of time, and it made me realize that life is too short. I know I wanted to be an NFL scout, and I'd be living my dreams and their dreams because they were always my biggest supporters.

When did you find out you got the NFL position, and who was the first person you told?
Right after I came back from the Senior Bowl, I got the call from Wilson Management Alliance. They loved my story and said they didn't want me to sign with anyone else. It was a dream come true. They're such great people and so helpful. It was just such a good fit. I was home when I got the call. I came downstairs, and my Dad said, "Why are you looking at me like that?" When I said I got the job, he couldn't believe it. So when I told him I didn't want to teach, he trusted me and told me he knew I would do something important. He had to be the first person I told.

Who was your favorite mentor?
First and foremost, my parents and brother. Mrs. Fellona, my high school art teacher, was another favorite. She was battling breast cancer, and we stayed in touch even after I graduated. She put things into perspective for me, making me appreciate all the good things I had going and stay positive. My childhood best friend Casper and my Grandmother, I call her Mom-Mom. They each deserve a shout-out because I wouldn't be where I am today without them.

How do you think your previous jobs prepared you for this one?
After we're done talking, I'm going to my uncle's pizza shop, Italianas. I work there a few nights a week to help him out. My grandfather and Dad always taught me not to judge a book by its cover and to put 100% into everything. I still paint houses, and I worked for UPS right up until I got the scouting job. Working at a gym was my favorite because even though I had to wake up at 4:30 am to open the doors at 5 am, I knew I'd get to see many people I loved talking to. I loved hearing their stories and what motivated them to be there. They knew what my goals were, and now when I run into them, they get so excited for me. Every job I've had has made me who I am. They totally shaped me, how I react to things, what I absorb; I wouldn't change anything.

How is your first year going so far?
Busy, but very rewarding. Everyone at my agency is incredible, so warm and welcoming. Most of them were previous athletes, and it is so cool working with people that understand a team aspect.

Is there a player in the current draft you're excited about?
I really like Malik Willis. He previously played college football for Liberty University in Virginia. He has such a great story, and I'm excited to see what he does.

What does your dream future look like?
I want to be the GM of my favorite team, the Philadelphia Eagles. That's the end goal.

We gotta know: What is your favorite piece from SWET Tailor?
The SWET joggers, I seriously live in them!

What are you looking forward to the most as the newest brand ambassador for SWET Tailor?
Representation. Not just that I'm Korean, but that I come from a blue-collar background and was adopted when I was only a few months old. I don't know anyone where I'm from that gets to do this. It means a lot that people get to see me succeed. That's why I love Swet, because they really promote surrounding yourself with good people and being the light in a dark room. I'm so lucky, and I believe that anything is possible.