The Sports Marketing Professor

Social media is no longer an option

2011-12-10T08:46:00.000-08:00

With lots of transitions taking place, and some recent talk professionally, about not looking at the past, but only to the future, it seemed relevant to break and create a fresh start on the blog. So with that, and a recent class on social media and leadership, I have been thinking about a comment that I read, and what a powerful impact it had on me.

I know many people in various industries that are adamant about having NO attachment to social media. They have seen and read the horror stories a la Anthony Weiner, and they want to stay as far away from the potential of anything remotely similar happening to them. Understandable.

However, as we discussed in this recent class, in this time, with social media so prevalent, simply choosing not to engage in social media does not mean you are not there. Whether an individual has an active presence in using twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, etc., is no longer relevant. Because leaders are already there, being spoken about by others, regardless of their decision to interact on any level.

So I implore you, whether you think it is valuable, relevant, useful or not, to minimally become engaged as a listener. Your reputation could depend on it.

Associate Director of Athletics for Compliance: Armstrong Atlantic State U

2009-05-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

Description: The Associate Director of Athletics is responsible for the coordination and maintenance of the Department's comprehensive compliance and academic support system. This person will work closely with the President, Director of Athletics, Director of Sports Communications, Senior Women's Administrator, Head Coaches, and Head Athletic Trainer in establishing and maintaining a program which will insure proper transmission of NCAA, Peach Belt Conference and university rules and interpretations to coaches, other athletic department staff and student-athletes.

The position will be the primary compliance administrator for all AASU varsity sports programs. The position is responsible for the operation of the Department's compliance and rules education program, coordinating and monitoring the certification of student-athletes' eligibility and financial aid, and directing various student-athlete programs (e.g., community outreach, code of conduct, etc.) In addition, the position will act as the liaison with the Compliance Committee, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Academic Support Services.

Responsibilities include developing and maintaining effective operating procedures and administrative systems to insure institutional compliance; developing and directing a comprehensive rules education program; serving as a resource for the university community on athletically-related regulations; maintaining and coordinating procedures for compliance with NCAA, conference and university regulations; monitoring eligibility status and financial aid for student-athletes; coordinating university policy and procedures for responding to rules violations; and serving as a compliance liaison to the NCAA and Peach Belt Conference offices.

Primary duties of this position include: Remain current on SACS criteria and ensure compliance in area of control; serving as a resource for the university regarding athletically related rules and regulations; serves as contact for athletic staff personnel for all compliance and academic issues; managing and coordinating the day-to-day operations of all compliance issues; developing and implementing a comprehensive compliance database in the Athletic Department to assist the monitoring and reporting of compliance-related information.

Responsible to report all possible NCAA violations directly to the Director of Athletics.Responsible to uphold all Peach Belt Conference and NCAA rules in a framework of good ethical conduct; violation may result in disciplinary action and/or termination of employment

Serving as an administrative staff member of the athletics department, attending administrative and departmental staff meetings as appropriate.

Serving as a resource for the university regarding athletically related rules and regulations.

Coordinating the university's policy and procedures for responding to rule violations.

Administer various student-athlete programs (community outreach, Student-Athlete Code of Conduct, etc.).

Additional duties as assigned by the Director of Athletics.

Qualifications: The successful candidate must possess an advanced degree (minimum of a master's degree) in related field, plus 3-5 years administrative experience with a working knowledge/understanding of applicable NCAA guidelines, federal regulations, and other policies/procedures that define model practice in intercollegiate athletics. Experience in compliance, student academic services, and administration at the collegiate level.Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation.

Salary commensurate with education and experience. Excellent benefits package. Application Process: Interested persons should submit a letter of interest and vita, and arrange for three letters of professional reference to be sent to:Eric Faulconer, Interim Athletic Director Athletics DepartmentArmstrong Atlantic State University11935 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31419-1997Review of applications will begin on June 3, 2009, and continue until position is filled.

Lecturer of Outdoor Recreation: Coastal Carolina U

2009-05-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

Coastal Carolina University, Program in Recreation and Sport Management in the School of Health, Kinesiology, and Sport Studies announces a full-time, Lecturer position beginning in August, 2009. Coastal Carolina University is seeking an energetic individual to provide quality instruction in the recreation and sport management academic program, plan and implement outdoor recreation trips and instructional clinics for the campus community, and provide leadership for the development of a new challenge/adventure/ropes course.Required

Qualifications include: Master's degree in outdoor recreation or highly related area; demonstrated success in college teaching; supervisory experience in campus recreation; strong communication, organizational, and leadership/management skills; experience in outdoor and trip programming; experience with the management and programming of adventure/challenge/ropes courses; ability to obtain relevant professional credentials (i.e. certifications).

Preferred qualifications include: Wide variety of certifications/credentials supporting the planning, programming, and management of outdoor trips, ropes/challenge courses, climbing walls; experience in the development of a new ropes/adventure/challenge course; and experience in academic curriculum development.

Responsibilities include: The lecturer reports directly to and is evaluated by the Director of the School of Health, Kinesiology, and Sport Studies. As a position shared with Campus Recreation, the lecturer will also report to the Director of Campus Recreation. The position includes ½ time teaching courses in the recreation management program and ½ time work in campus recreation - outdoor recreation.

Teaching responsibilities include but are not limited to: outdoor recreation, leisure/recreation studies, and outdoor leadership. Student advisement, curriculum development, and related academic responsibilities are required. Campus recreation responsibilities include the organization, administration, and delivery of outdoor recreation programs and trips, leadership in the design, construction, and maintenance of new challenge/adventure/ropes courses (low/high elements); and training and supervising facilitators and interns. Responsibilities include the select programming of outdoor clinics and events, as assigned by the academic program and campus recreation.

Coastal Carolina University is a public mid-sized, comprehensive liberal arts-oriented institution. Coastal Carolina University is located in Conway, South Carolina, just nine miles from the Atlantic coastal resort Myrtle Beach, one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the nation. It has an enrollment of 8,400 students and is expected to have continued growth for the next several years. Coastal Carolina University is a part of the South Carolina system of public education and has close ties with its founder, the Horry County Higher Education Commission.

Interested candidates should submit a letter of application, a current curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy, and names and contact information of at least three (3) professional references electronically at: http://jobs.coastal.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates who interview must provide official transcripts of graduate work. Coastal Carolina University is an EO/AA employer.
Application Information

DIRECTOR - PARKS, RECREATION and TOURISM DEPARTMENT (Aiken, SC)

2009-05-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Salary: 51,364.00 - 59,068.00

Required Education:
4 Year Degree

Description
Aiken County (SC) Government is seeking a dynamic leader to head a department with a diverse park system and award winning leisure programs. The department is responsible for the care of twenty-three parks and offers typical recreation programs such as day camps, softball and baseball, soccer, as well as Senior programs and holiday events. Unique offerings include rowing regattas at the county’s world renowned rowing venue Langley Pond, a Triathlon, and a roving rural summer camp program which has won two state awards for its innovation. The department also operates a staffed Tourism Center in downtown Aiken. The position of Director is responsible for the supervision of all department employees (17 total), including administrative, maintenance and part time summer staff; the care of all park grounds and equipment; the upkeep and use of all maintenance equipment; and vehicles assigned to the department.

Department Web Site: http://www.aikencounty.net/depts/prt/

AREA INFORMATION: Aiken County is located in Western South Carolina across the state line from Augusta, Georgia. It is one hour West of Columbia, South Carolina, three hours Northwest of Charleston, South Carolina and three hours Southeast of Atlanta, Georgia.

Requirements
Candidates should have a Bachelors Degree or higher, with a preference in Parks and Recreation Management or Administrative Management. Candidates should also have experience in financial management, personnel management and facility planning. Other skills such as grant writing, grant administration, contract maintenance and working with citizen groups are desirable.

Interested persons should send a resume and list of references to the attention of Todd Glover, Assistant County Administrator, 828 Richland Avenue West, Aiken, SC 29801 or email to tglover@aikencountysc.gov. This position is open until filled. The first review of resumes will begin on June 15, 2009.

Cabrini College (PA) Dixon Center Coordinator

2009-05-16T07:52:00.000-07:00

Location: Radnor, Pennsylvania

Part Time - Entry Level

Preferred Education: High School

Description
The Evening and Weekend Coordinator will act as the on-site facility and staff supervisor of the Dixon Center evening and weekend hours of operations, as well as during special events. A high level of customer service will be provided by the Evening and Weekend Coordinator for all Dixon Center users and for ongoing activities. The Coordinator will also support all Dixon Center professional staff as needed, and supervise intramural and fitness activities. He/She will oversee and enforce front desk operations, building access, and safety procedures and regulations, and monitor recreation equipment check-out, maintenance, and storage. The Coordinator will perform clerical duties and general clean-up as needed, including maintaining facility usage logs and other data collection.

Requirements

The ideal candidate must be flexible, customer service oriented, and willing to enforce facility regulations. He/She should have experience in student activities, recreation events and/or community recreation. Applicant must be CPR and First Aid certified or willing to complete certification within three months of employment. The Evening and Weekend Coordinator must be willing to work varying hours of operation without on-site supervision. Academic year hours available for this position will be covering Monday through Thursday 6pm to 11pm, Friday 6pm to 9pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, and Sunday 11am to 10pm, and will be divided between two individuals. Summer Hours vary. Interested candidates can apply by submitting a resume and a cover letter to Cabrini College, Human Resources Department, 610 King of Prussia Rd., Radnor, PA 19087. Fax: 610-902-8404. E-mail: jobs@cabrini.edu.

Why does every student want to be an agent? or General Manager?

2009-05-15T17:01:00.000-07:00

Let's face it. Those of us in the "industry" know this is not a likely outcome, and yet, so many of my students are convinced this will be where they are working in a year or maybe 3. I hate to think I might be disillusioned before 40, and I certainly would never want to rain on any one's dreams. After all, I had mine too, and there were many memorable folks who helped me realize them, with some realistic modifications!

And that is what I try to do with students. Education is about creating opportunity and choices, no? Through awareness, understanding, empowerment, and the like. And so, I like to help students have those options, by pursuing dreams with absolute abandon, but being realistic and ready for any opportunity.

Personally, I have never worked for a professional sports team, but I have been "around" them my entire career, working as an editor for a few publications, a brand manager for a trading card manufacturer, and as a marketing consultant with sports agents and other companies in sports and recreation, in addition to owning two sports marketing firms. I always try to encourage my students to be versatile, thereby making themselves more marketable, so a new feature I plan to introduce here are going to be listings of jobs in sports, but outside the mainstream.

Enjoy!

More great advice for students

2009-05-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

The Sports PR Blog has a GREAT interview with Jim Loria, of the Sioux Falls Stampede today. Jim provides some GREAT advice for students aspiring to enter the sports industry job market, and be successful. Some of my favorite quotes:

"During my time in Washington, my Caps’ boss used to always preach to me that “I wouldn’t become ‘someone’ in my life until I totally understood how sales, marketing, community, promotions, special events, etc. , all intertwined and rely on each other to succeed!“"

"Spend time honing your writing and speaking skills without question. Learn how to get in front of larger groups, especially your peers, and speak. Communications is vital."

"On the flip side, you can have the most decorated resume in the world but if you can’t “smile”… “look someone in the eyes”… “effectively communicate”, than the resume is wasted. I don’t think I am off base by saying that with most employers today, your resume (or referral contact) can get you the interview, but it’s that first glimpse of you & the employer when you first meet that probably cinches half of the door opening up for you or staying closed. How you dress matters! Just like a meal at a restaurant. First time your eyes gaze on the look of the meal delivered by the wait staff member will make your taste buds ramp up or turn off."

What amazes me is that this advice is what SO many industry professionals share with up-and-comers, and yet, so many students seem to think they are above it, or that it's just a bunch of garbage.

A great quote from Jack Nicholas, that I usually put on my class syllabus: "I always practice as I intend to play." The point is, use your classes as a way to hone your skills for the real world. This means demonstrate a professional appearance and demeanor. Body language says a lot more than students realize, and when they sit in the classroom and look apathetic, doze, sit cross armed, those are subliminal messages that tell me they think they are better than this. They always say that in an interview or on the job, where it really "matters" they turn their game on. What they fail to realize is that behaviors frequently become habit, and you never know who might see you. In other words, there are some students I would gladly recommend for a job or internship, and others for which I would hesitate, based largely on their behavior in my classroom. How you practice translates to the big game. And in this industry, in this job market, students need to be more prepared than ever.

Sonny Vaccaro strikes again

2009-05-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

My 6 loyal readers know how I feel about this topic, but here we go again...

The Sporting News is reporting today that Mississippi State University has retained the services of a lawyer that has experience dealing with other schools in times of crisis, pertaining to potential rules violations and NCAA inquiry.

Why?

Because Renardo Sydney is 6' 10", plays basketball, is under the advisement of Sonny Vaccaro and has committed to MSU, after previously making an oral commitment to USC. In the Sporting News report, Vaccaro "acknowledged that he gave the family $20,000 to help with the move (from Mississippi to California)."

On April 24th, I ranted about Vaccaro and this latest admit in The Sporting News sickens me even more. USC and UCLA allegedly rescinded offers to Sydney, because they claimed to be concerned about possible scrutiny into Sydney's story.

So, here we go again. Everyone knows Vaccaro is connected. The former shoe company executive just happens to have $20,000 lying around to help a kid and his family move halfway across the country? And there is nothing in it for him down the road? OK.

Vaccaro is not registered as an agent, but c'mon. Those of us around it know how basketball at this level works: The prominent and powerful AAU teams that circumvent regulation. The ways that runners work under the radar and launder money from different sources, not out of the goodness of their heart, to coincidentally help 6'10" teenagers who can shoot, but as an investment in a potentially greater windfall down the road.

Again, I understand maximizing opportunity, and I do not begrudge a teenager for taking the path that allows them to potentially change the lives financially of those closest to them, but I am first and foremost an educator, and reinforcing the concept that education is a red-headed step child compared to the glamour of fame, to impressionable, naive young people really gets to me.

And that is what is happening here. Again.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the percentage of American adults of all ages with a four-year bachelor's degree was estimated at 17.1 percent in a 2007 Census survey. And we all know what a great career you can typically have with a High School Diploma or GED on your wall. So, we stand by, and let people like Vaccaro continue to ride the wave of these promising, athletic children? And when their wave crashes, where are the Vaccaro's of the world? Certainly not with them. They are back out to sea looking for the next one.

Great books for Sports Marketers

2009-05-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

As I dust off the shelves, and go through my vast library of books, I will be posting some information on those that I think are great reads for those in the industry. There is no question that I love Bill Veeck. His visionary and anti-establishment style are two things that make our industry so interesting today. If you have not read his autobiography, I suggest picking it up. Veeck was a straight shooter, who loved the game of baseball and understood the needs to the fan. He knew that only a few came because of a love for the game, but that those purists would come no matter what. He recognized that baseball was still a form of entertainment, and that in order to get the majority of fans to come out, he had to create an aura of excitement in the ballpark, and treat the customers as if they were guests in his home. With an original publication date in the early 60s, it still has relevance today.

Another nail in the coffin for education

2009-04-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

I am an entrepreneur, a lifelong learner and an educator, so one would think that I would be in conflict when I read a story like the one in USA Today about high school basketball players skipping college to play professionally overseas until they are eligible for the NBA Draft. I am all for maximizing earning potential, and can certainly understand the appeal from the perspective of a young person, especially in the case where that opportunity could change things in their life that have been fundamental concerns I have never had to face (do we have enough money for groceries this week?).

And when the story has a happy ending (Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James), everyone wins. The fans win. The industry wins. The players are able to change the lives of many people.

But when I read a story like the one I just stumbled upon, I think about people like Ronnie Fields. Maybe you remember him... the high school teammate of Kevin Garnett who was dubbed "all-everything." He was declared academically ineligible at DePaul, where he signed a letter of intent, which stumps me. He declared for the CBA (not NBA) Draft, where he was selected #73 overall. How did he go from Mr. Basketball in high school, All-American, to the 73rd draft pick in a second rate league? He is now 32 years old, having jumped from league to league, with no NBA experience. He went undrafted in 1998 when he submitted his name into the NBA Draft pool.

So, Sonny Vaccaro is back at it again. What I would like to know is where this guy is when players he "consults" don't pan out? It seems like he just moves on, but how many Ronnie Fields players with similar stories have been left in the Vaccaro wake?

Around the time Ronnie Fields was leaving high school and testing the professional basketball waters, I was professionally involved with basketball, and very involved in marketing qualified players with no collegiate eligibility to overseas and minor league teams so I remember his story well. Over a decade later, he is still toiling in the CBA.

So Vaccaro is out there "consulting" and "advising" players to forgo any time in college. He calls it "purgatory" for exceptional players. The stigma he attaches to the concept of ANY educational experience sickens me.

For the minuscule percentage of players where this option is a logical one, there are undeniably droves more who unrealistically think it will work for them. What happens though, is that countless people, leaches, wanna-bes, hangers-on, hitch THEIR aspirations of an easy ride onto the star of a naive, wide-eyed 17-year old. And then the star dims. And the "friends" disappear, looking for the next sure thing to hitch a ride. It happens. I've seen it. Way too much.

So, I wish Jeremy Tyler all the possible happiness that could exist for him, as I would for any young person, with so much in front of them. I hope he finds years of success, but I also have no conflict when it comes to education. I hope he does not devalue it. Some day, he is going to need it. Basketball will end someday. If it ends abruptly, without the anticipated podium shot with David Stern and the riches that follow, what will he have left? A 10-year career bouncing around semi-pro leagues making $2000 a month? And when he is 40, and can't do that any longer, what is there for him? He can't get job coaching in high school or college, because he only has a high school diploma or GED. What then? Where are all of the "good friends" that once existed because there was promise and an easy ride? These are the stories that impact me. That is why I credit players for going to college, staying in school to exhaust their eligibility, and then moving on. I understand that that is not for everyone, but I shudder when I see the vultures and Vaccaros of the world "advising" players to make life-altering decisions that have no impact on their OWN lives. When lawyers and doctors and other professionals improperly advise their clients, they can be sued for malpractice. They have a stake in the things they tell other people to do. Vaccaro has no stake. If a kid works out, great. If not, oh well, not my problem.

It's despicable. Good luck Jeremy Tyler. And Ronnie Fields, wherever you are, hopefully your story will make people aware of the need for a balance with reality, and the urgency to create options and choices. Life is a long time, not just the length of a 10-year basketball career (if you are even that lucky).

Under Armour reaches plateau in life cycle?

2009-04-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

The Baltimore Business Journal reports on the athletic apparel giant facing the challenges presented not only by the economy, but also by its evolution on the product life cycle curve. They have great brand awareness and equity, but stiff competition from Nike, adidas, and everyone else under the sun. After all, mimicking is the sincerest form of flattery.
We shall see if the brand loyalty they have mustered is enough in the long term.

When Outer Rim Marketing works

2009-04-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

The Buffalo Bills have capitalized on the fan base in Toronto, by playing games in the "Bills Toronto Series" across the border. While roughly 99 miles is not an impossible drive for Toronto-based Bills fans to undertake for game day, the Bills are demonstrating their ability to capitalize on a strong segment of their market by bringing the product to them.

Business First of Buffalo is reporting that Rogers Communication would like to see more of the same.

Of course, critics will say that the ticket prices are absurd. Average game ticket prices in 2008 were over $180 in Toronto, and in 2009, they have been reduced approximately 17%. Still, the Bills have the lowest season ticket average price in the NFL. Fans can gripe and moan about ticket prices, but can you blame the teams for charging what the market will bear?

I like the creativity of the Toronto Series. Could the Chargers do something similar in Los Angeles?

Presentations and public speaking that works

2009-04-17T07:11:00.000-07:00

Kudos Russell Scibetti for addressing the need for ALL members of our business community to become effective speakers... I require students throughout the semester to present, speak in class, etc. It's not necessarily about the material they are discussing, but the underlying attempt to have them learn how to be more comfortable speaking in front of a class, panel, audience, etc.

In addition to the "y'know what I'm sayin'?" and the "umm" pause phrases, street talk, slang, cliches and fast talking and low voices, and reading notes, so that all we see are the top of their heads, I tell them that this is their time. They are presenting. First, know your material. If you don't, nothing else will matter, no matter how witty you may be. Secondly, SLOW DOWN. It's not a race. If you need to collect your thoughts or think of the right word, a little silence is completely acceptable. There is no need to fill the void with "um" and"you know".

Make eye contact. Notes are great as a way to remind and keep on track, but DO NOT STAND AND READ THEM. That also brings me to the crutch otherwise known as PowerPoint. Don't create sides full of text that you read to your audience. If you need the slides that much, the audience does not need you! Use the slides as an enhancement, a backdrop, but not the main course.

PGA loses another tourney sponsor

2009-04-16T12:27:00.001-07:00

The Dallas Business Journal is reporting that Crowne Plaza, a subsidiary of InterContinental Hotels will bail on their sponsorship of the PGA event at Colonial County Club in Texas. The 6 year deal that commenced in 2007 allows Crowne Plaza to bail after 2010.

This makes the 6th tour event the PGA has available now on its sponsorship menu.

The PGA, which has a clear fan demographic, has a difficult sell to companies, impacted by the all-powerful economic downturn. Companies that generally see the PGA as a tight market segment fit, are some of the most impacted by the downturn. Automobile manufacturers, the travel industry, financial institutions, real estate related entities, and the like.

While many title deals are in place for a few years still, a lagging recovery could substantially impact title sponsorship revenues for future tour events.

Why this ad works

2009-04-16T09:35:00.000-07:00

Darren Rovell presented the new Gilette ad featuring its trio of endorsement superstars:
Roger Federer, Derek Jeter and Tiger Woods.

Gilette is on the money with this, because the music and scenery and choice of athletes all blend perfectly.

Woods, Federer and Jeter are endorsement gems because they understand humor, and can poke fun at themselves. They are guys to whom we can relate, and are not afraid to show a side of themselves that is human. Peyton Manning in his "priceless" commercials delivers the same result.

This ad hits multiple market segments, those who can relate to the athletes, and those of us who understand that 1970s music and imagery in the advertisement from the famous movie starring John Travolta. Now, if he had made a cameo appearance in the commercial, that would have been the icing on the cake.

Twitter Use Grows, but not from who they thought...

2009-04-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

Apparently, Twitter saw a 131% increase in march 2009, according to Silicon Valley Business Journal. However, while it was thought it would be of large appeal to teenagers and the Millenial generation, the 45-54 demographic are "most likely to use the service at 36% above the average."

I am anxious to see the trend in usage, as it is a fantastic tool for staying informed about trends that impact one's interests, profession and the like. For the "instant" culture that we are, craving and demanding instantaneous news, information and data, twitter has capitalized on serving that community need.

Some good causes still exist

2009-04-09T12:48:00.000-07:00

The Triad Business Journal is reporting that tomorrow is the Carolina Barnstorming Tour in Greensboro, NC. ACC stars, including Tyler Hansbrough, will take on some of the area's top high school players.

The event benefits Ronald McDonald House, and at $10 a ticket, its a great value and a great cause.

Clever Promotion For Buffalo Bisons?

2009-04-08T15:05:00.000-07:00

The venerable triple-A franchise affiliate of the New York Mets opens the 2009 season tomorrow against the Pawtucket Red Sox. With a mid-week 2:30pm home opener, in Buffalo, where tomorrow's game time forecast is 45 degrees, the Bisons are offering 4 free tickets to anyone who has lost a job. That sounds like a fun time!
A stadium full of unemployed people, at 2:30 on a Thursday afternoon, in Buffalo, in April, when it is 45 degrees. Now, I grew up in the suburbs of Buffalo, so no bashing from me. I have great memories, but is this a promotion Bill Veeck would think up?
They averaged 8,257 fans per game last year in a stadium that holds over 18,000.
Buffalo's unemployment rate is at 9%. Is there room here for some great community relations? You bet. With the Final Four, and so much discussion about the impact on the city of Detroit, over a weekend, let's keep an eye on how community based minor league teams really look to dig in and support the fan base that has supported them.
Minor league baseball is the proving ground for creativity, promotions and a fun atmosphere. I will look forward to watching the promotion calendar to see how teams attempt to connect with certain depressed communities, and fans that are financially hurting.

Possible New Venue for DC United

2009-04-08T14:47:00.000-07:00

Have you seen DC United play in RFK Stadium? It's horrible. It's 50 years old, and in this area of sports venues as entertainment centers, DC United just can't compete. After attempts to stay in the District, DC United started shopping around in suburban Virginia and Maryland.
Prince George's County just pulled the plug on a feasibility study to merely CONSIDER floating bonds worth $195 million. That's the interesting piece here... that the simple investigation into the potential economic impact was voted down 8-0. The concern is having to cover the shortfall, but would a soccer specific venue in a market as dense as the DC suburbs not have enough potential tenants?
MLS Philly is building new digs for $115 million. It's hard to imagine in this economy that there is not some locale in or adjacent to DC looking to welcome the United home and that the price can not be a bit more competitive.

Administrative Decision Making in Contemporary College Athletics

2009-04-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

I had the great privilege to serve as a moderator last night at a symposium on the campus of Temple University concerning Administrative Decision Making in Contemporary College Athletics. Our four panelists, we are perfect compliment to each other, providing a diverse sampling of career path, stage in career, history and more. The guests were Mary DiStanislao from UPenn, Herman Frazier from Temple, Dr. Eric Zillmer from Drexel and Jeff Falardeau from Cabrini.

One of the challenges that can exist with such an endeavor is that one person can dominate, or another can fall through the cracks. Not the case here. It was a gracious group, with fantastic insight on advice for sports management students in the audience.

Dr. Zillmer is a extremely interesting individual, serving as a tenured professor in Drexel's psychology department, bringing a truly unique, yet practical perspective to the position.

Mary DiStanislao provided great commentary on the factors and emphasis that go into hiring a coach for a higher profile revenue sport, versus a less-visible one.

Jeff Falardeau, representing the NCAA D3 faction, gave a great balance to the Division I panelists, weighing in on topics that involved web presence, collegiate branding, something that Cabrini has only recently developed.

Herman Frazier of Temple provided thought-provoking insight to students on the perils of social media and being conscious of the "send" button when posting to blogs, twitter, facebook and the like.

MLBPA Clubhouse Store

2009-04-04T09:19:00.000-07:00

Darren Rovell has reported that the Major League Baseball Players' Association will open a Clubhouse store in the Met's new CitiField. The rationale is that MLB fans DO want to support individual players through product purchases, instead of merely individual teams.

As I read the report, a few things came to mind, especially about how the NFL and NBA do not permit non-player jerseys to be sold. Well, duh! I have not actually calculated the area of the numbers on the front of an NFL Jersey, but I am sure they must account for at least 85% of the markings on the jersey. Who wants an $80 generic Indianapolis Colts Jersey? It's a white shirt with blue stripes on the sleeves:

In most cases with the NFL, it is the combination of the font style of the numbers, along with the colors, that demonstrate the team designation. The Ravens, Broncos, Steelers, among others have a unique font that associates with the team.

The NBA, while featuring a team name or logo on the front of jerseys, still includes a large number. The jersey looks out of balance without it. You KNOW something is missing.

MLB jerseys, by their design, are different. Most do not feature a player number on the front so blank back jerseys do not look as awkward as a blank Indianapolis Colts or Pittsburgh Steelers jersey. They would look like rejects from the factory.

So, go ahead MLBPA, and market the individual player. My Yankee home pinstripe jersey proudly has a "44" on the back. But for those fans that want to support the TEAM, please don't take away their option as a fan/consumer.

We don't write good

2009-04-01T16:23:00.000-07:00

What is it with writing skills? Why do I have the same problem every year with juniors and seniors? Of course, it's not everyone, but it is way more than it should be.

Technology has impacted us as professors in so many profound ways. It's a wonderful tool, but it is one of my biggest struggles. In teaching sports marketing, we talk about the impact of social networking sites, and their undeniable place in our profession. But what do they teach us to do? Take short cuts, abbreviate and write in incomplete sentences a means to be concise.

And the fall out is that it spills over into ALL writing. And students are dumbfounded when I hand a paper back and tell them to rewrite it.

What to do?

A final word on Dan Leone, Facebook, and getting fired

2009-03-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

Is there much else that can be said on this topic? Probably not, but here goes...

I preach to my students the concept of professionalism. Some get it, and some do not.

Working for a team, when you are also a fan, can create a blurred line in terms of the personal and professional lives of indivduals. There is an old saying... Don't sh*t where you eat. Maybe Dan Leone never heard that.

One of the global leaders in customer service, and total quality management is the Ritz Carlton Company. They have implemented a Gold Standard as a basis for their operating procedures.

The Ritz Carlton "culture" is unparalleled. When I can afford it, they are my hotel brand of choice, because they are at the top of their game.

As part of the Gold Standard, there are a list of 19 Employee Basics, one of which is:

"Be an ambassador of your hotel in and outside of the work place. Always talk positively. No negative comments."

Sports poses a problem for employees, who are also fans. Where is the line? Be a fan, but use a little common sense. Whether you are a team executive or game day employee, professionailsm is paramount. It's what sets leaders apart. I support the Eagles' decision as an organization.

Is creativity in the genes?

2009-03-14T07:27:00.001-07:00

Sports Business Daily and Darren Rovell reported on a youtube.com video created by 14 year old Ben Gullett. Ben's dad is the former VP of Marketing for the Tampa Bay Lightning.

In an effort to contribute to the job search (as well as perhaps make a social statement about the economy, and broadcast his support for his Dad), 14-year old Ben created the video "Mark by Ben."

It's creative, alluring, poignant, sincere, and really well done. Almost 3,000 hits as of this morning.

Is Kellogg's quietly answering critics?

2009-03-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

Darren Rovell put Kellogg's to task last month when they conveniently announced they would not renew Michael Phelp's endorsement contract after "the bong picture" surfaced. There was still time left on the contract, and Kellogg's remarked that they would simply not renew, and let it run its course. We debated in class the merits of Kellogg's position. Were they just taking advantage of a publicity opportunity to denounce the acts of Phelps, without putting any real action behind it? In other words, Rovell challenged them to pull product from the shelves, if in fact, they really were appalled by Phelps' behavior.

So now, Kellogg's is still mum on the topic but Rovell has reported that the San Francisco Food Bank is receiving about 3,800 pounds of Kellogg's cereal product, an amount that could make them eligible for a $15,000 tax deduction. Another potential publicity stunt, or just quietly responding to a call to back up their vocal denouncement of Phelps with some real consciously-motivated action?

San Francisco Giants Ticket Promotion

2009-03-11T06:34:00.000-07:00

Aaron Crowe recently posted his opinion on the new ticket pricing strategy of the San Francisco Giants, which was brought to my attention by one of my astute graduate students. They are instituting variable ticket pricing, where costs will fluctuate based upon the opponent, pitching match up, and other factors that could impact the "perceived value" of the seats.

Only 2000 seats, some of the worst in the stadium, will be impacted by his new policy.

When discussed in an undergraduate sports marketing class, it was not difficult to see the negative impact for the Giants.

Initially, these are lousy seats, and the Giants are perceived to be milking an extra few bucks out of up to 2,000 fans for the chance to get to see Tim Lincecum with binoculars.

What happens when the "marquis" (and higher priced) pitching match up is scrapped minutes before game time due to an injury, or some other reason? What happens when the sunny Sunday afternoon game is now cloudy, and drizzly, but not postponed? This is San Francisco after all.

If you are forced, due to economic reasons, to sit in some of the worst seats in the stadium, shouldn't the Giants capitalize on a fan-friendly promotional opportunity, rather than a measly and blatantly profit-oriented one?

Where is Bill Veeck when you need him?!