2020 NBA Draft Gift Locker

The NBA Draft 2020 presented by State Farm, will be the league’s first virtual draft and the first draft held at ESPN’s Bristol, Conn. headquarters. Although this year’s draft is completely different and the first of its kind for the NBA, the league went above and beyond to make sure that NBA draft prospects received everything they needed going into tonight’s event. 58 players were asked to participate in the television broadcast which is more than double the 23 prospects who received “green room” invitations last year.

To help make the virtual NBA Draft and special night for each prospect, the NBA teamed up with Victory Creative Group to create an NBA Draft Gift Locker. 30 draft prospects received NBA Draft Gifting Lockers, featuring media kits (Microsoft Surface tablet, Beat Powerbeats Pro earbuds, iPhone with a tripod, Ring light, Beats Pill wireless speaker). The locker also includes 30 NBA team hats, personalized NBA Draft basketball, and gifts from other NBA partners including Spalding, New Era, Beats By Dr. Dre, and Oculus as well as a customized AR experience.

Take a look at the images below for a more in-depth look at the NBA Draft Gift Locker that players received ahead of the #NBADraft.

h/t NBA

2020 NFL Schedule Release Graphics

Image via CBS Sports

The NFL released the schedule of all 32 teams tonight in a three-hour program on the NFL Network, featuring appearances from Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, and 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan among others.

In true sports marketing fashion, SMP wanted to bring you something a little different from our perspective. There are so many talented individuals who sit on the marketing and graphics departments for each NFL team, and this year, they did not disappoint with the schedule release graphics.

Below you will find a link to our 2020 NFL Schedule Graphics board on Pinterest where you can download your favorite teams’ schedule and save it as your wallpaper, lock screen, or post it on your Instagram Stories or Snapchat.

2020 NFL Schedule Graphics > https://pin.it/52qzCi4

Bigger Than Brunch To Host Digital Networking Event

Image via Bigger Than Brunch

For Immediate Release

4/14/2020

BIGGER THAN BRUNCH TO HOST DIGITAL MARKETING EVENT HIGHLIGHTING SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT PROFESSIONALS

Bigger Than Brunch Digital will serve as an online networking event to provide a space for sports, entertainment, and music industry professionals. Bigger Than Brunch Digital is a flagship event meant for industry professionals to connect and network while staying safe at home with the restrictions that are in place due to COVID-19.

The digital networking event is invitation only and will feature a leading panel discussion with some of the industry’s top and upcoming professionals, followed by a questions and answers session, and a specific digital networking opportunity.

The hour and a half online event will take place on the video conferencing platform Zoom. Bigger Than Brunch will provide panelists and attendees with ample opportunity to meet, connect, and engage with each other over some of the most discussed topics in the sports and entertainment industry.

“Having a background in sports marketing and media, I would always attend conferences, seminars, and networking events. Once I left those events, I always felt like I wanted and needed more engagement and interaction with the panelists or speakers”, said founder Asia McMillan. “We created Bigger Than Brunch to be the direct opportunity between young and upcoming industry professionals and those who have been in the sports and entertainment industry who are open to providing wisdom, knowledge, and creating opportunities for others to become a part of the industry.”

Confirmed guests for Bigger Than Brunch Digital include sports agents, marketing directors, music industry professionals, digital media professionals, entrepreneurs, and sports and business majors from various universities.

Bigger Than Brunch plans to host an in-person event during the Fall of 2020 and expects its first online event to be a significant lead into the sports seasons post COVID-19.

ABOUT BIGGER THAN BRUNCH

Bigger Than Brunch is a new event for sports and entertainment professionals featuring engaging panel discussions, intimate networking sessions with influential industry thought leaders, and of course, Brunch!

 Bigger Than Brunch provides panel discussions and Q&As on some of the most critical topics in sports and entertainment, including women in sports, diversity and inclusion, sports marketing and business, eSports, and entertainment law.

For more information on Bigger Than Brunch, you can visit their website BiggerThanBrunch.com.

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The Media Perspective: Central Florida Bowl Week

Image via Florida Citrus Sports

It's been a great week here in Central Florida for many sports fans and enthusiasts. Thanks to Florida Citrus Sports, the Sports Marketing Perspective team has the opportunity to cover the 2019-2020 Central Florida Bowl Week, highlighting some of the most significant sporting events in Orlando, Florida.

As credentialed media for the Camping World Bowl and Vrbo Citrus Bowl, we receive information and have the opportunity to attend many events that take place unknowingly to the public. Starting things off, all media members who apply for credentials receive email confirmations on their credential status. If you are approved, you will receive special instructions, itineraries, and more each day throughout the entire Bowl Week.

We have to give praise where praise is due. Florida Citrus Sports runs nothing less than professional and organized events. From a marketing and media standpoint, each event we attend, which is hosted by Florida Citrus Sports, has always shown the media respect. Regardless of your affiliation, whether you work for a big-time publication or you are working independently, Florida Citrus Sports lays down the red carpet for members of the media.

Bowl Week and Community Events

Image via Camping World Bowl

As a host city and host committee, you must involve the teams coming into your state and city within the community. Community involvement is essential to sustainability within the market and sports industry, and community involvement builds trust among local fans, consumers, businesses, and media outlets.

On Monday, December 23rd, both Iowa State and Notre Dame football teams arrived in Orlando for the Camping World Bowl. Upon arrival, both football teams were met by volunteers and fans and given bottles of orange juice as they stepped off the plane. If that isn't a warm Orange County greeting, I don't know what is. After their arrivals, each team would begin bowl game practices at the local Boone High School and Camping World Stadium. Throughout the week, Iowa State and Notre Dame would take part in many community events. Both teams would have specific times set aside for theme park visits, shopping sprees, Camping World Day for kids, and official Camping World Bowl pep rallies.

On Thursday, December 26th, Alabama and Michigan would arrive in Orlando for the Vrbo Citrus Bowl and be greeted with the same Central Florida welcome. Alabama and Michigan began their Bowl Week holding practices at the local Celebration and West Orange High Schools. Alabama and Michigan will also take part in many VIP gatherings, community and youth events, pep rallies, and more.

Bowl Week Video Links > Here

The Media Perspective

As members of the media, specifically members of sports media, our perspective narrates the story for fans, other media outlets, and general consumers. Cities and host committees understand the importance of positive narration from the media's point of view. A negative story about an event not only falls on the shoulders of those hosting an event, but it also falls on the culture surrounding the city, the teams, and the sport.

Knowing this, Florida Citrus Sports went above and beyond, making sure that members of the media are well informed throughout the entire week. Not only do we receive information via email, but the utilization of the Press Pass app also made getting updates a seamless process. The media hotel did a great job of providing working areas, and the availability and easy access to press conferences, practices, and media events via a free shuttle was a great touch. Not to mention, but we will say, the media hospitality room offered excellent food and snack options. Who doesn't love great food?

A bonus offering for all media covering the Camping World and Vrbo Citrus Bowls is the partnership with Lyft. Florida Citrus Sports partnered with Lyft giving all media a $25 Lyft credit to use throughout bowl week. Sports Marketing Media offices are in Orlando, Florida, however, being able to park and take a free Lyft ride across town to cover various events saved a lot of time and money.

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Overall, the 2019-2020 Central Florida Bowl Week has been an excellent experience for the Sports Marketing Perspective team. We look forward to bringing you more content from the fields of the Camping World Bowl and Vrbo Citrus Bowl.

Make sure you follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for updates, behind-the-scenes access, and a unique perspective from some of the greatest sporting events in the Central Florida area.

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Special thanks to Florida Citrus Sports.

Camping World Bowl | Vrbo Citrus Bowl | Florida Citrus Sports

Camping World Bowl Photo Gallery > Here

Fun Facts: The Cure Bowl

The Cure Bowl taking place on December 21, 2019. To kick things off, we wanted to share some fun facts ahead of the fifth annual FBC Mortgage Cure Bowl.

image Via The Cure Bowl

Fun Facts:

- This is the 5th Annual Cure Bowl

- The Cure Bowl was founded on March 28, 2008

- The Cure Bowl will be the first non-soccer sporting event and the first college football game to take place at Exploria Stadium, since its opening in March 2017.

- Prior to this year, Auto Nation was the title sponsor of the Cure Bowl

- Auto Nation Cure Bowl Facts:

2015
December 19, 2015
San Jose State 27 – Georgia State 16
Game MVP: San Jose State QB Kenny Potter

2016
December 17, 2016
Arkansas State 31 – UCF 13
Game MVP: Arkansas State WR Kendall Sanders

2017
December 16, 2017
Western Kentucky 17 – Georgia State 27
Game MVP: Georgia State QB Conner Manning

2018
December 15, 2018
Tulane 41 – Louisiana 24
Game MVP: Tulane RB Darius Bradwell

- The Cure Bowl is always played on the third Saturday in December each year in Orlando, FL. and is televised nationally on CBS Sports Network.

- Funds raised from the Cure Bowl directly benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).

- Cure Bowl has an estimated $20 million positive impact on the local economy.

- Orlando is a top-20 television market with 1.4 million viewers; the adjacent Tampa market is ranked in the top 15 with 1.8 million viewers.

Exploria Stadium | Cure Bowl | Orlando Sports Foundation | Florida Citrus Sports

Stay tuned for more updates as we cover your 2019 Cure Bowl from Exploria Stadium.

Orlando Magic City Edition Uniform

via Orlando Magic

Being a native Orlandoan, I've always had mixed emotions about the Orlando Magic. Don't get me wrong, I will always support my home team, but the Magic never felt like my home team. Orlando has become a transplant city. People from all over the world come here to see that magical place where the mouse lives. Or they relocate after spending a lifetime up north. Very few people know or understand the history of this City Beautiful, but Nike has taken the time to help those who are interested, understand.

via Orlando Magic

With the new addition to their family of uniforms, The Orlando Magic unveiled their new City Edition Jersey back in November. The first thing I thought of when I saw the basketball uniform, was "wow, they changed the entire color scheme." After getting past the shock value of an Orlando Magic jersey not being blue or white with stars or stripes, the jersey instantly made me think of the things this City Beautiful is known for.

The reality of this orange jersey did not disappoint. Instead, it exceeded expectations. The uniforms, which pay homage to Central Florida's ties to the citrus industry, feature a dark gray base with orange lettering and trim. As the NBA stated, "From its very early beginnings, orange has been a part of Orlando – from sunshine to orange groves to Orange County to Orange Ave., it's the color thread that intertwines the fabric of this city, its people and this team". The minimalist design, with the simple "ORL" abbreviation on the front, definitely stands out among the other uniforms in Orlando's lineup.

From My Perspective

In their partnership, Nike and the NBA have taken marketing through sports and of sports to a new level. Nike has given the NBA a face-lift on the court and the talent. With new City Edition uniforms coming each season, the NBA is staying fresh and relevant in the minds of consumers, while also giving fans a tangible and emotional connection to their city and their favorite teams.

What are your thoughts on this season's Orlando Magic City Edition uniforms? Will you be buying a jersey to represent your city and your home team?

Fun Facts: Florida Blue Florida Classic

This year, Sports Marketing Perspective will be live during the 2019 Florida Blue Florida Classic. To kick things off, we wanted to share some fun facts ahead of one of the biggest HBCU (Historically Black College and University) rivalry games.

image Via Florida Classic

Fun Facts:

- This is the 40th installment of the Florida Blue Florida Classic.

- The event has seen many names over its 40 years, but the most recent naming rights ‘Florida Blue’ have been in place since 2011.

- The 2018 final score saw BCU getting the win over FAMU 33 to 19

- The largest recorded attendance was in 2006 (Orlando, FL.) with a total of 71,216 attendees.

- FAMU leads the Florida Classic series 20-18

- The first time these two teams met was in 1925 where FAMU won 25-0

- The Florida Classic has been held in Orlando, FL. Since 1997. Prior to ‘97, the event was held in Tampa, FL.

- FAMU holds a 9-1 record in the 2019 season, with their only loss against the UCF Knights.

Stay tuned for more updates as we cover your 2019 Florida Classic from Camping World Stadium.

NFL and TikTok Announce Multi-Year Partnership to Bring NFL Content to Fans Around the World

Via NFL

Launch of Official Account with New Content Every Week of the Year

Worldwide Hashtag Challenges Starting with #WeReady to Kick Off NFL's 100th Season

Sept. 3, 2019 -- The National Football League (NFL) and TikTok, the leading destination for short-form mobile video, announced today a new multi-year partnership to bring the excitement of the NFL experience to TikTok's global community, combining the passion surrounding NFL football with the fast-growing digital platform.

As part of the partnership, the NFL is launching its official TikTok account, delivering content to fans across the platform's global markets. NFL content will include uniquely packaged highlights, sideline moments, and behind-the-scenes footage. Additionally, the NFL and TikTok will partner together around a series of NFL-themed hashtag challenges, inviting members of the TikTok community to express their passion for their favorite NFL clubs and players on TikTok. The NFL and TikTok will also be partnering together on unique marketing opportunities for brands to activate around NFL content on TikTok.

#WeReady Kick Off Campaign
The NFL and TikTok are rallying fans to join in the excitement of kickoff with the #WeReady hashtag challenge campaign. From September 3rd - September 5th, fans are encouraged to show their pride for their favorite team by creating their own unique TikTok videos with the #WeReady hashtag. Popular TikTok creators and NFL clubs will join fans in showing their team spirit and excitement to get "back to football" ahead of the NFL's 100th season.​

TikTok will also be celebrating the NFL's 100th season kickoff live in Chicago on September 5. Attendees can experience TikTok in real life at Soldier Field and create their own unique TikTok videos that show their love for their favorite teams and players in an NFL-themed experience.

"Partnering with TikTok is a natural extension of our media strategy," said Blake Stuchin, Vice President, Digital Media Business Development for the NFL. "The platform reaches a fast-growing global audience of NFL fans and future fans. The NFL programming and hashtag challenges are a perfect way to kick off the NFL's 100th season – with fun, new content that will entertain fans and invites them to celebrate and experience their NFL fandom in a way that's authentic to the unique experience of TikTok."

Sports is a popular and beloved category on TikTok. Sports fans crave authentic moments, and people find that in TikTok's unique and creative short videos that capture the humor, passion, and surprise of the sports world. From the fans and the food to the mascots and players, this partnership will bring the excitement of an NFL game day to TikTok's diverse content ecosystem while involving the TikTok community in the broader NFL experience.

"We're thrilled to partner with a powerhouse in the sports industry like the NFL to bring new life and a fresh perspective to the sports entertainment experience," said Mayan Scharf, Global Partnerships, TikTok. "TikTok is a destination where fans can feel like they are a part of the team and we look forward to showcasing content from the NFL that is exciting, authentic and surprising to TikTok community."

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About TikTok
TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. Our mission is to inspire and enrich people's lives by offering a home for creative expression and an experience that is genuine, joyful, and positive. TikTok has global offices including Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Jakarta, Seoul, and Tokyo. www.tiktok.com.​

Media Contacts:
Laura Perez, TikTok
pr@tiktok.com

Brenna Webb, NFL
brenna.webb@nfl.com

adidas Unites Women Who Are Breaking Barriers in Sports

Image via adidas

August 19, 2019 | Portalndo, Oregon

As part of adidas’ She Breaks Barriers initiative, a collection of star female athletes shared their stories of struggle and success in a two-part broadcast called “Change in Play” debuting August 26 on Stadium digital sports network. The programming is meant to increase visibility of role models for women and girls in sport.

Stadium sports reporters and studio hosts Kristen Balboni and Amina Smith lead the in-depth dialogue with a roster of decorated athletes including three-time WNBA MVP Lisa Leslie, WNBA All-Star Chiney Ogwumike, Olympic Hockey gold medalist Kendall Coyne Schofield, Olympic Volleyballbronze medalist Rachael Adams, UFC fighter Paige VanZant and NFL agent Nicole Lynn.

“Women in sports are continuing to do amazing things on and off the court, octagon and field. They’re speaking up, setting examples for young girls and playing with passion. I’m so excited that we’re able to recognize those incredible female athletes that need to share their stories with the world,” said Balboni.

Currently, only 4 percent of U.S. sports media coverage is dedicated to women, despite 84 percent of sports fans expressing an interest in women’s sports . The two-part special is another example of adidas’ commitment to leveling the playing field for women and girls in sport through the brand’s She Breaks Barriers initiative, which focuses on providing better access, removing gender stereotypes and creating visibility for female athletes at all levels and ages.

“In order to be her, you need to see her and right now the stark gap between men’s and women’s sports media coverage has created a lack of visible role models for women and young girls,” said Kelly Olmstead, adidas Vice President of Brand Activation. “Gathering these amazing athletes to share their stories will help inspire the next generation of athletes, whether it’s getting them started or keeping them going.”

The roundtable discussions aim to encourage women to pursue their sports passions by sharing stories they can relate to through world-class athletes. “We’re focused on creating an inclusive future for female athletes and this programming, in partnership with Stadium, highlights our commitment to create that change,” said Olmstead.

Stadium, the 24/7 multi-platform sports network, is committed to increasing its coverage of women’s sports beyond its 1,500 NCAA women’s events annually. The special will air on its digital and social networks; Stadium over-the-air channels, WatchStadium.com and TV streaming services. Since launching in late 2017, Stadium has grown to over 60 million monthly views across all screens with a slate of live games and original programming.

The first discussion will air on Monday, August 26 at 8:00 p.m. EST, followed by the second episode debuting Tuesday, September 3 at 8:00 p.m. EST on Stadium digital sports network.

Tune into the livestream at http://watchstadium.com/ and join the movement to help increase visibility and coverage for women’s sports by utilizing a template petition on the adidas She Breaks Barriers website to connect with your local sports and news networks.

Join the conversation on Instagram via @adidas and @adidasWomen.

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She Breaks Barriers Initiative
Since launching in December 2018, the She Breaks Barriers initiative has supported professional athletes, identified barriers and co-created solutions in partnership with communities and grassroots programs. In March, adidas launched @3StripeLive, the first-ever globally live-streamed series of girl’s grassroots sports on Twitter. The broadcasts have received more than 6M video views to date, and three more episodes are scheduled for this year. adidas also partnered with the Global Sport Institute (GSI) at Arizona State University to identify existing barriers to sport for women, examine how to overcome the barriers and explore what these mean for women in sport.

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About adidas
adidas is a global designer and developer of athletic and lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories with the mission to be the best sports brand in the world. As an innovation and design leader, adidas engineers the best in high-performance products to make athletes better, faster and stronger and creates a range of classic and fresh lifestyle and high-fashion lines.

About Stadium
Stadium is the original multi-platform sports network featuring exclusive live and on-demand games and events, extensive highlights, classic games, original programming, and daily live studio programming. Stadium includes a 24/7 linear feed distributed across both digital and broadcast platforms, as well as a comprehensive array of on-demand (VOD) digital content including additional live games and events. Stadium is owned by a collection of industry leaders including Sinclair Broadcast Group, BAMTech, the NHL, the PGA TOUR, and Meredith Corp. To learn more, visit: http://watchstadium.com/

Asia McMillan Named FAPSC Graduate Of The Year

On August 1, 2019, Asia McMillan received the honor of being named the “2018-2019 Graduate of the Year” (degree-granting institution) by the Florida Association of Postsecondary Schools & Colleges (FAPSC) during the FAPSC Annual Conference held in Hollywood, FL.

After earning her Bachelor of Science in Sports Marketing and Media from Full Sail University, Asia entered the sports industry to explore her passion for Sports Business, Marketing, and Philanthropy. Currently, Asia works as the Multimedia Coordinator for the Amateur Athletic Union( AAU), where she focuses on creating and distributing engaging and meaningful content that promotes the overall objectives of the organization. 

Within her first month in the position, Asia executed a social media campaign that generated an increase of over 40,000 percent engagement. She was also tasked with forming a new brand identity and brand guidelines for the AAU to utilize across all aspects of marketing and media. Her latest challenge has been to help the NFL Alumni Association Central Florida Chapter improve their community presence and engagement through her contributions as the Media Director. Asia is the founder of Sports Marketing Perspective (SMP), a platform that provides content from the perspective of sports marketing students and young sports marketing professionals. Asia began SMP while a student at Full Sail and continues to engage consumers after graduation. For Asia, being a sports marketer and emotionally connecting fans with their favorite organization is a passion she has been chasing for many years.

Most recently, Asia started the BeyondFour Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization whose mission is to use sports to inspire and support creativity, education, health, and wealth outside of four walls, four years, and four quarters. Through their Four Pillars and Fundamental Values, the BeyondFour Foundation will create a community of events, workshops, and tools surrounding Individual Creativity, Social and Community Responsibility, Value Creation, and Community Service (education, health, and wealth). Within the BeyondFour Foundation, Asia also aspires to create a scholarship fund to help further education in sports, business, marketing, and media degree programs.

Asia is paving the way for future sports industry professionals by providing consulting, mentorship, and various platforms for students and young professionals to showcase their talents and skills.

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For more information on Asia, visit AsiaMcMillan.com

Special thanks to Full Sail University and FAPSC

Inside Mamba Sports Academy’s Marketing Goals

Mamba Sports Academy aids in developing and training athletes to the peak of their potential with the help of experts using a 360 approach including body, performance and mind training. The organization operates physical training academies, a sports focused venture lab, and a charitable foundation, called the Mama Sports Foundation.

Check out the video below, courtesy of Front Office Sports, to get an inside peak on Mamba Sports Academy, their marketing goals, and the hopeful future for the organization.

FOS Editor Ian Thomas sits down with Tzvi Twersky, CMO of Mamba Sports Academy to discuss the brand goals, the company's growth plan and the impact they plan to have. Subscribe to the FOS Daily newsletter: https://frntofficesport.com/newsletters/ Follow FOS: https://frntofficesport.com/ https://twitter.com/frntofficesport https://www.instagram.com/frntofficesport/

Video via Front Office Sports - YouTube

NFL Alumni Central Florida Chapter adds Asia McMillan as a chapter officer.

Image via Asia McMillan/NFL Alumni Central Florida Chapter

ORLANDO, FL. – The Central Florida Chapter of the NFL Alumni Association has added entrepreneur and marketing strategist Asia McMillan to their Board of Directors as Media Director.

“We are very excited to have Asia join our organization,” said Seneca McMillan (no relation), President of the Central Florida chapter. “Her resume, ideas, and her work are amazing, and she can bring a lot to the chapter from an overall media perspective."

Asia currently serves as the Multimedia Coordinator for the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) where, in her first month in the position, she executed a social media campaign that generated an increase of over 40 thousand percent engagement. Asia is also the founder of Sports Marketing Perspective a platform that provides content from the perspective of sports marketing students and young sports marketing professionals. The Florida native is a graduate of Full Sail University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Sports Marketing and Media.

“I’m excited to join the NFL Alumni Association. I’m thankful and blessed to have the opportunity and look forward to learning from some of the best in the business, while also networking with other industry leaders and organizations to help build up the Central Florida chapter", said Asia McMillan.

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About the NFL Alumni Association

Founded in 1967 by a small group of successful retired NFL players, the National Football League Alumni is the oldest, most well-known and well-respected retired player organization in professional sports. Membership includes thousands of retired players, coaches, front office executives, spouses, cheerleaders, and avid fans. A primary mission of NFL Alumni is “Caring for Our Own” as we inform, assist, and serve players in their post-NFL lives.  Alumni are offered a diverse package of medical, business, and legal services to help keep them and their families healthy, productive, and connected to the league and their former teammates.

NFL Alumni also has a traditional mission of “Caring for Kids” across the country. Player alumni give back in their local communities by raising funds for youth-related charities through their 35 regional chapters. It is a tradition that has existed for more than 50 years.  Alumni support typically raises more than 1.5 million dollars for worthwhile causes.

For more information visit, nflalumni.org | @nflalumni | @nflalumnicfl

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About Sports Marketing Perspective

Sports Marketing Perspective (SMP) is a place that offers unique content surrounding the marketing of sports and through sports, with many different perspectives. The overall goal of SMP is to help its readers and viewers understand the business and marketing objectives of a sports league, brand, company, marketer, sponsor, and consumer of sports and everything that shares a connection with sports.

For more information visit, sportsmarketingperspective.com | @smperspective

Where Have I Been? Cornhole Championships?

via American Cornhole League

When I thought I knew the majority of sports, or what most people consider sports, here comes something that proves me wrong. Some people do not consider certain games a sport unless it requires some form of physical contact. I'm the opposite. In my opinion, sports can be both physical, mental and can also develop from a hobby where strategy is involved.

This weekend I was watching ESPN (as always), and the Johnsonville Cornhole Championships caught my attention. For those who are not familiar, Cornhole is game and a sport that carries a lot of weight at your weekly sports tailgates, and some may refer to it as bean bag toss. Now, I'm not new to the game. I have played it many times, but it took me by surprise to learn how popular this game and sport is.

Just off the bat, the marketing, advertising, and promotion that goes into a cornhole tournament are on a grand level. Having Johnsonville as the presenting sponsor is smart and caters to the demographics of the game of cornhole. If you take some time to research or watch a cornhole tournament, you will immediately notice the amount of marketing and advertising dollars that goes into the event, especially considering that they are free to attend. From the jersey sponsors to the partner and sponsor activation, on a collegiate and professional level, the cornhole championships took me by surprise and also made me feel a bit disappointed that I did not know a game I have played for so long has developed into a broadcasted sport.

via American Cornhole League

If you are a young marketing professional like me, the American Cornhole League (ACL) proves that there is not an event, game, or sport that is exempt from the benefits of knowing your target audience and gaining partners and sponsors to help reach your event or business goals.

Being immersed in the marketing industry, I cannot watch a sport or go to a sporting event without noticing the sponsors and the sponsor activations. With that said, below is a list of activations that I saw while watching the Johnsonville Cornhole Championships. Let me know of other activations that you can think of for a tournament or event similar to the cornhole championships.

Key Activations:
- Johnsonville and ACL branded cornhole boards and accessories
- Johnsonville Big Taste Grill (the world's largest grill) and stage
- Event info and registration using the ACL mobile app
- Cornhole on the Field
- Tickets to games hosted by partnering sports/leagues
- Free gear from multiple sponsors

From My Perspective
The American Cornhole League can benefit from exclusivity. Adding particular sections or exclusive packages for sponsors and attendees can add an extra stream of revenue for the league without taking away the fun for all aspect of the game. Additionally, featuring more original content on their website and social media platforms, from the professional and collegiate players and attendees, can give the ACL another level of digital activation to attract more sponsors and partners.

American Cornhole League

Investing vs. Endorsing: The Market Is Open For Athletes

Estimated reading time: 1 minute 36 seconds

 Image via TechCrunch/TheMercury News

Look, I won't bore you with the technical aspects of how athletes are investing and their financial portfolios. I will save that for a later post. However, I will tell you that more athletes are looking at more meaningful and more sustainable solutions other than your typical endorsement deals.

In a recent interview with ESPN's Darren Rovell (linked below), Kevin Durant discusses his fondness for business, investing, and learning how to make the right moves off the court; "You have to remove the ego of it and realize that you don't know it all... So I've got to ask questions, and I've got to have an open mind to it all." Having an open mind is needed when stepping into the world of investing. Much different from endorsement deals, many athletes are focusing their attention and their money on owning a piece of a company by investing in start-ups and starting their own companies.

Earning over $55 million annually in off-court investments and endorsements, LeBron James seems to be the go-to guy for sustainable investing. Similar to Kevin Durant, LeBron James has invested in start-ups such as Beats by Dre, Blaze Pizza, and is a co-founder of the media company Uninterrupted and the production company Spring Hill Entertainment.

 Image via TechCrunch/TheMercury News

A glimpse into Kevin Durant portfolio gives us a look at investments in his Thirty-Five Media production company, Coinbase, Acorns app, and Postmates. His presence in Silicon Valley alone has grown his portfolio and has allowed him to build meaningful relationships outside of basketball. Although many fans and media personalities were not in favor of Durant taking his talents to the Golden State Warriors, it seems that it was the best off-court move he could have made.

For the entire article and interview check out the link below.

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From My Perspective:

I am all for sustainability in branding, marketing, and general business practice. Athletes who invest their money for long-term gain are more likely to see an increase in brand awareness and brand equity for years after they have ended their professional sports careers. Athletes such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, Serena Williams and many more who are investing their money in start-ups and their own venture capitalist companies and production companies, get the bigger picture.

"Don't do things just for money. Don't do things just for fame. Do things because you feel right and it feels true." - Kevin Durant

ESPN: Inside Kevin Durant's Growing Empire

CNBC on LeBron James

Sports PR Summit And Their Wooden Credentials

Estimated reading time: 1 minute 33 seconds

We are all aware of the many marketing strategies and tactics used to promote various sporting events. Well, while doing my usual scroll down Instagram Lane, I came across something that immediately caught my attention.

If you do not know about the Sports PR Summit, here is your chance come from under that rock. The Sports PR Summit presented by The Players' Tribune is an invite-only event that brings together senior PR executives from professional and collegiate sports and top sports corporations for panel discussions and invaluable networking opportunities. This year's Sports PR Summit is taking place at The Players' Tribune headquarters in New York City as I write this article.

However, the location or presenting sponsor is not what caught my attention. Something unique and, what I presume, soon to be trending is what made me stop, like, and screenshot.

This year, with the help of their branding director Cameron Sandage, the Sports PR Summit included one-of-a-kind wooden credentials for everyone that registered before May 1st. This unique keepsake credential, made by Swing Shift Studios, is a piece of wood engraved with the Sports PR Summit and The Players' Tribune logos with the name, title, affiliation, and role the individual. Talk about branding and marketing done the right way.

While continuing my stroll down Instagram Lane and searching #SportsPRSummit, I noticed how trending the wooden credentials were. Although this is not the first time the Sports PR Summit has distributed wooden credentials, I'm sure this branding and marketing tactic will catch on with other events in the near future.

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https://instagram.com/p/BjFNSWIh6ML/?utm_source=ig_embed

Fun Fact:

16 minutes into the 2018 Sports PR Summit, #SportsPRSummit was the No. 1 trending hashtag on Twitter. Via Founder and CEO Brian Berger

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From My Perspective:

Branding and marketing (done the right way) are a significant part of event planning and execution. If you have been to many events, especially those surrounding sports, you know that your credentials are the one thing that you can hold on to as a memory of the event. Plus, everyone loves seeing and showing off his or her name on an event badge to get that extra sense of importance.

Something as small as an event badge, lapel pin, bracelet, or notebook, when customized, can make a significant difference in how people perceive your event and if their willing to share all the cool things they get, with everyone on social media.

For more information on the Sports PR Summit be sure to visit the links below.

#SportsPRSummit | @SportsPRSummit | @BrianBergerPR | @SwingShiftStudio

Sources: Sports PR Summit

Ohio State Football Beyond Four Years

Estimated reading time: 1 minute

Via Ohio State FB

Coming from a university that places great emphasis on networking and building genuine business relationships (Full Sail University), I was excited to hear about the Ohio State Football Real Life Wednesdays program. Although this program is not new, one of their latest videos captures the real mission and vision for Real Life Wednesdays.

Real Life Wednesdays is a three-phase program that takes student-athletes through the process of filling and maintaining their "toolbox" and building brand awareness through internship opportunities and career fairs. By bringing in guest speakers such as Phil Knight (Nike), Dan Gilbert (Cleveland Cavaliers), and Kenneth Chenault (American Express) athletes have the opportunity to shake hands and connect with some of the top executives in the nation. In the words of Ryan Stamper, Director of Player Development for Ohio State Football, "we don't want to make sure our guys are just set for the four years they're here. My goal is to make sure they're set for the next 40 years."

Being that Columbus, Ohio is the 15th largest city in the nation and the state is home to 25 Fortune 500 companies, Ohio State also provides student-athletes with internship opportunities with many companies in Ohio and around the country. Also, through the Real Life Wednesdays program, athletes are given opportunities to shadow companies and executive and are taken through mock interviews.

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From My Perspective:

I think Real Life Wednesdays is a program that every school needs from high schools to colleges and universities. These days, having a high school diploma or a college degree is not enough. Taking advantage of every opportunity, you have to connect and network with potential employers or industry professionals is the key to establishing a long career after graduation.

Many student-athletes are not well-equipped with the tools needed after college or after their sports career. I'm not sure if the Real Life Wednesdays program is for all student-athletes, but Ohio State Football has a very organized plan in place for their athletes.
 

Check out the video below to see what Ohio State is doing to prepare student-athletes for a life and career beyond four years.

Sources: Ohio State Football

3 Things Every Sports Marketer Should Know

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes, 55 seconds

Many people overcomplicate what it means to be a marketer. Simply put, marketing is promoting and selling. No matter what industry you are in or what company you work for, as a marketer you are hired to promote and sell a product, brand, client, proposal, or even a business.

In deciding to take the journey of being a sports marketer, there were so many things I thought I knew but had no clue about. I came to learn that there are a few things you should always stay up to date on and as I say, ahead of everyone else on. Below are three things that every marketer should be ahead of the game on when starting your journey or as you continue your education and career.

1. Who and Why

It is important to understand the target market and target audience. Know your audience's names, know how many kids they have and their kid's names, and know how much they paid on a slice of pizza at the downtown movie theater when they went to see Black Panther for the third time. Seriously, as sports marketers, we are of no need if we do not know who we are promoting and selling (marketing) to, why we are marketing to them, and why they even care that we are marketing to them. Know your audience, become your audience, and be able to predict their next move. Be of the market while also understanding the market. 

2. Trends

The sports industry is continuously evolving. From new technology to emerging competitive sports such as esports. There are also constant changes in the relationship between the sponsee and sponsor as new trends come in and old trends are faded out. Staying updated on trends within your industry surrounding technology, target audience, and sponsor objectives are vital as a sports marketer. Continually educating yourself on what’s going on in your industry and in other sectors (directly or indirectly related) will take you a long way in the world of sports. 

3. Emotional Accounts Over Bank Accounts

One of my favorite quotes about sports business is a quote by Peter Guber which states, “We are in the emotional transportation business.” We should all know that the end goal is to increase revenue and gain the most ROI (return on investment) and ROO (return on objective) for our teams, clients, sponsors, and businesses. But to increase that bottom line, we have to understand the importance of aiming at the emotional account, not the bank account.

If you are marketing a team, a new product, a new idea, or even a player, you have to engage your target audience. The best way to engage someone is to establish an emotional connection between that person and what you are trying to promote and sell (refer back to one and two). Once you have gained the attention, time and effort of your audience (the emotional account), they are willing to spend more for the better seats, stay at the arena longer, or make a donation at a community event sponsored by your team (the bank account).

After you have tapped into their emotional account, now you have open opportunity to make them participants and owners of your process and your product.

“You fail if they’re passengers, they have to be participants” - Peter Guber

Although this article was written with the Sports Marketer in mind, this article can also serve as a reference for anyone who is pursuing a career or is in the marketing or business industry.

SMP And Inside The 5 Host Second Live Podcast

via Sports Marketing Perspective

Thanks to West Oaks Academy, this Saturday 3/3/18, Sports Marketing Perspective alongside Inside The 5 will be hosting the second Live Podcast on location at the West Oaks Academy gymnasium.

Come through and hangout with us as we talk sports, culture, business and much more!

You can catch the live podcast or watch on demand on the Sports Marketing Perspective Facebook page (link below).

Live Gameday Podcast: www.facebook.com/sportsmarketingperspective/

Special thanks to: @InsideThe5 | @WestOaksAcademy | West Oaks Academy

Mercedes Benz Activates and Innovates

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes and 5 seconds

via Mercedes-Benz

As sports fans, we all enjoy some level of competition especially when it’s paired with a good challenge. Well, Mercedes Benz gives us the best of both worlds.

With their Last Fan Standing contest, Mercedes Benz activates on their NFL sponsorship in a way that’s innovative and tech-savvy. The Last Fan Standing contest gives fans the chance to win a brand new Mercedes-AMG C 43 Coupe (pretty nice and fast car), from the comfort of their home.

For fans to enter the contest, they are required to use their Smartphone to log in to LastFanStanding.mbusa.com during the registration period. Once registered, contestants will have the opportunity to invite others to participate in the contest by sharing a link on Twitter. Of course, Mercedes Benz wants as many people to share and join the competition as possible. Even if contestants don’t get anyone else to participate, they have now become an official marketer for Mercedes Benz, and this includes the perk of receiving a five-minute “Timeout” (I’ll explain below) for sharing that link on Twitter.

After completing the registration process, contestants will be taken to the contest page to demo the game and wait for the Last Fan Standing contest to start. Here is where the challenge comes into play. During the contest, contestants must keep their finger on the car, at all times, as it moves across the screen. Yes, you read that right. If for any reason you are not able to keep your finger on the car on your screen you will be disqualified. The only breaks you will get are during a Timeout (this is where that free Timeout comes in handy).

From My Perspective

This contest is a great and innovative way to take the traditional Last Fan Standing contest and transform it into something that provides fans with ease of use, comfort, and convenience, all of which are excellent benefits for those who chose to participate in this contest. Being attached to Mercedes Benz also comes with a level of social prestige which is another benefit that Mercedes in providing fans and contestants with by entering and potentially winning this contest.

Mercedes Benz has come up with a great way to connect sports fans with their brand. Albeit, it’s going to take some effort to win the prize, but like I said sports fans love a competitive challenge.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this sponsored activation. Would you take part in a contest like this? Leave your comments below.

Sources: Mercedes Benz USA

Adidas Sneakers Give Berliners a One-Year Pass to their Mass Transit System

Reading Time: 1 minutes, 43 seconds

Via Adidas/BVG

Adidas is all about innovation and creativity, and one of their latest sneakers checks both of those boxes.

With the limited edition EQT Support 93/Berlin, Adidas has created a shoe that not only provides support for one’s feet but also provides a one-year pass to the city’s mass transit system known as the BVG.

In her explanation to the Guardian, Petra Reetz (spokeswoman for BVG) stated “The motivation behind the collaboration is really to get young people on to public transport… in a big city like Berlin, the quality of life and quality of the air are important. We wanted to tell young people public transport is cool – you don’t need to buy a car.”

Not only is this collaboration an attempt to make public transport cool and relevant, but it is also an attempt to modernize the BVG and the culture of public transport. As Berlin’s transportation system turns 90 this year, this collaboration with Adidas is a great attempt towards rebranding the BVG.

Via Adidas/BVG

While also appealing to footwear collectors with limited pairs sold (only 500 were made) and with their unique BVG-inspired look, the EQT Support 93/Berlin also appeal to people seeking a significant discount on Berlin’s yearly public transport system. Currently, the cheapest option is around 728€ ($893). But the sneakers, which double as transit passes, sell for 180€ ($220).

As far as the technology that is used to produce the transit pass within the sneakers, the pass is embedded in the tongue of the sneakers and doesn’t involve any over-the-top technology. 

Via Adidas/BVG

How this technology will work in practice is unsure. However, people won’t have to take their shoes off to scan them. Berlin public transport is honor system-based, with occasional security checks. But rules around using the shoes as a pass are strict: You must have both shoes on your feet when you expect to use them (as opposed to giving one to a friend and having one in your bag).

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From My Perspective

This is a great move by Adidas and an even greater move by Berlin and the BVG. Not only does this collaboration bring a new feeling to the 90 year old BVG, but it also helps sustain Berlin's public transport system beyond its years. By collaborating with Adidas, BVG is setting the tone for other cities to involve more of their culture and staples with a new and current generation in regards to style/fashion and technology. 

The EQT Support 93/Berlin went live on January 17, 2018, and sold out on the first day. The BVG transit pass will last until December 31, 2018.
 

Sources: AdWeek | The Guardian