Spring 2008- Welcome Back and Welcome to HPED652
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Joe Gironda said...
[Week 1]"New NHL uniforms ready to wear"
V-9, I-37, P-6
This particular article discusses another of Reebok's innovations in the world of professional hockey. As mentioned by a previous user - the article specifically outlines the new "Edge" uniform system and the benefit these jerseys and pants will provide for the NHL players.
Along with promising better protection and improved moisture-management, Reebok also claims the uniforms will mean less fatigue for the players.
The article also mentions that about half of the teams in the NHL have already practiced in the new jerseys, whereas the entire league will be in the uniforms for next season.
The overall look of the uniform is excellent, as it not only claims better protection and moisture-management, but also creats a tighter jersey which will likely cut down on the grabbing from less-skilled, defensive players. It seems as though Reebok has taken the stance to try and create a football-type jersey for use in the NHL. Great move for a great company. To this point, Reebok has basically kept all of the former equipment they've purchased (from KOHO, CCM and Jofa) and simply put the "RBK" logo on it as their own. This is a great move for Reebok, as they are not trying to fix great products by changing everything about them (take notice, Nike).
This is the first major innovation the RBK company has introduced to the NHL, and I believe they have chosen a great avenue for this leap. Whether you're a hockey fan or not, you will certainly take notice to the uniforms above all else.
posted by Dr. Richard Hsiao at
1/22/2008 07:20:00 PM
101 Comments:
Week 1 - “NFL thinks desert Super Bowl logo will be hot”
Vol. 10, Iss. 38, P.6
Every Super Bowl gets a logo designed specifically for that game in order to help market the game. Although no Super Bowl logo incorporates the logos of the two franchises involved, a good Super Bowl logo can be identified with teams, franchises, and stories that occurred in that year. Being a Steelers fan, I can easily remember the logos for Super Bowl 30 and Super Bowl 40 when the Steelers were playing in both games. The logo always accounts for a great deal of merchandise sales in the postseason, mostly among fans of the two franchises involved. This is a way for fans to connect and commemorate the occasion.
Personally, I don’t think the Super Bowl 42 logo is aesthetically pleasing at all. Outside of the desert colors of brown and blue, it seems rather bland to me. The article describes the logo as “generic”, and I have to agree with that, but I don’t think a Super Bowl logo should be generic. The logo for Super Bowl 30, which was also held in Arizona, was much better than this version. It incorporated desert colors of brown, yellow, tan, and had a southwestern type of design. The simple “XL” in Super Bowl 40 was attractive because it was big and bold with bright red and blue colors accented with silver. But nothing in this logo really stands out or attracts my attention. A few advantages that this logo will have this year are appearing on women’s and children apparel and cross-licensing with the halftime musical attraction at the Super Bowl, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers. These strategies may help to generated additional sales, but I think a more appealing design is the most important aspect of a Super Bowl logo.
Thursday, January 24, 2008 12:16:00 PM
[Week 1] “Three sites want 2012 Super Bowl” V-10, I-38, P-6
This article talks about which cities are asking to host the 2012 Super Bowl. It is amazing to me that there are already talks about which city in which the Super Bowl will be played in four years. I understand that the NFL needs to make sure that they have sites for such important games ahead of time, but I didn’t think that it was this far in advance. To me, this just shows how important the Super Bowl is, not just to the football league itself, but to a city as well.
The Super Bowl is probably one of the most watched events within the United States and brings in a ton of revenue to the host city, which is why there are already three cities fighting to be the host of this huge event. Hosting something to this magnitude could really help to boost a cities economy.
The article talked about how Indianapolis is one of the cities fighting to host this game, but there are not a lot of luxury hotels within the vicinity, which could possibly lessen the number of fans who attend this game. I would think that the NFL would want to have as many people attend the Super Bowl as possible so that they are able to make as much money as they can. The article also talks about how many times; the Super Bowl is played in a town where the weather is warm. This also makes sense to me because more people will attend a game in warmer weather rather than when it’s freezing and snowing.
There were also talks in this article about how the NFL does not want to keep the Super Bowl in the same area two years in a row. I agree tremendously with this idea. I think that something this big should be spread out and shared among the cities. It is only fair that different places get to reap the benefits of hosting such a high magnitude game. It will be interesting to see who gets to host the 2012 Super Bowl.
Friday, January 25, 2008 10:52:00 AM
Week 1- "NASCAR Hall targets 10 parners"
V-10, I-38., P-7
The NASCAR Hall of Fame which is located in Charlotte, NC, is set to open in early 2010. The NASCAR Hall of Fame and its marketing agency, Just Marketing International, have developed 10 sponsorship platforms they hope to sell to 10 founding partners. These 10 platforms will represent different segments of the building. The goal of sponsorship is to contribute to the experience of NASCAR fans. Many of the sponsors being targeted by Just Marketing are many of the same that already have their logos appearing in the sport of auto racing today.
The Hall sponsorships are being sold as multiple-year deals and include a variety of marketing, media and hospitality assets, including tickets to the grand opening and induction ceremonies. It is expected that these sponsorships will sell for high six figures to low seven figures annually. NASCAR official partners, which have right of first refusal for their category, have been the first stop for Johnson's sales team. A Hall sponsor that isn't also a NASCAR sponsor will be limited in the promotional use of the NASCAR Hall mark.
Just Marketing is also working to create an incentive system for visitors when they enter each platform area. Kiosks would be set up at the entrance to each section and fans would swipe a plastic card that they're given at the entrance. Each time the visitor swipes the card, points are added and those points can be redeemed for licensed items.
I think this is a must do for companies that currently advertise with NASCAR and their drivers. Many of the large name companies need to continue keep their strong association with the sport. For under a million dollars a year, sponsors can attach their name to the brand new facility in Charlotte. I don’t see why any of the companies wouldn’t invest in this unique sponsorship situation. The NASCAR hall of fame will be the only Hall of Fame with this kind of sponsorship which could put this facility in a league of its own.
Friday, January 25, 2008 1:03:00 PM
[Week 1] “Stadiums open doors to extra events”
V-10, I-38, P-19
This article talks about the usage of stadiums for more than just the use of football games. Some stadiums already multi-use stadiums for concerts and corporate functions but some stadiums only use their facility for football games. The University of Phoenix stadium in Arizona has decided to hold a hot rod “World of Wheels” event just a couple weeks before the superbowl. Some people may find this decision unrealistic but to an entrepreneur it is a great business deal because not only will they be making a profit from the hot rod event but it can also advertise for the superbowl as well.
Stadiums cost millions to build and most of them have a difficult time making a profit when it only holds about 10 football games a year while the rest of the time the facility is empty. Some business owners have wised up and have begun to rent out their facility for concerts and other sporting events to bring in more revenue. In my opinion, this is a win-win situation for everyone. This is an excellent way to make your stadium more marketable with advertisement and creating a relationship with different investors along the way.
Why should a multi-million dollar facility just remain empty and out of use for nine months out of the year when there is plenty of money to be made. Especially if the 10 football games a year are not bringing in the revenue that can help keep the facility up-to-date. Personally I would want to rent out my facility as much as possible and grab all the advertising I could get. Because you never know what could happen, who you could meet, or what business relationships can be made by maximizing your facility.
Sunday, January 27, 2008 6:11:00 PM
[Week 1] “Three sites want 2012 Super Bowl” V-10, I-38, P-6
The article makes many valid points but I think it does not take account of a major factor. As an owner of a professional organization you will always want to be wined and dined in the top restaurants, warm weathered cities with good traffic and luxury hotels. Another factor that comes into play is which team is the host city and how likely are they to come to the Super Bowl. I know if I was in the opposing conference I would not like to play an away game in the Super Bowl, because a major premise in the game is the neutral site. I think it would be interesting to know if this factor plays an issue to the owners because at the end of the day all these teams are in competition against each other. I believe that no team is willing to give up a competitive advantage if this site is looked at as one.
In the article is seems like the notion is that this game can be played in any location in the country. I know that in the last ten years we have moved into the Super Bowl and Bowl game vacation areas. Many major tourist areas have bid major money to have these events come to them and they want to make as many festivities and activities that can be held outdoors. I feel that the average fan who spends big money wants to have an ensured idea that they are going to have a comfortable weekend. I wonder if we will ever see another cold weather Super Bowl, because I doubt the owners are willing to deal with these conditions. Every aspect of sports has turned to turning profit and that is where the cities make the money to make major bids for the Super Bowl and Bowl games.
Sunday, January 27, 2008 11:30:00 PM
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Monday, January 28, 2008 1:03:00 PM
Week 1- "Little leaguers find spotlight brings demands, responsilities"
Vol. 10, Iss. 38, P. 14
This article highlights the past five months of the little league world series champions from Warner Robins, Ga. According to this article, the boys have not had a free weekend since they have won the championships against Tokyo. They have been asked to attend events such as a shuttle launch at the Kennedy Space Center, were introduced at high profile sporting events, asked to appear on David Letterman and Good Morning America; they even met the President at the White House. All of these requests has led to a local marketing company offering to handle all of the teams public appearances. I knew that the Little League World Series was a big deal, but I did not realize how BIG of a deal it actually is. Because of this win, $125,000 is going towards the development of two new baseball fields and, a monument will be made in honor of the boys. Furthermore, during the actual game, ratings more than doubled that of a Braves-Cardinals game, and tripled an MLB game during the last fifteen minutes. I wonder how that stacks up to an NFL event? One thing i found really interesting is that from all of the autograph signings, business and personal donations, the league has made close to 300,000 dollars.
One specific boy was mentioned in the article, Dalton Carriker, he is in the 7th grade and hit a game-winning homerun. Much attention has been turned to this little boy. His mother was interviewed for this article and she stated that Dalton recieves many letters each day in the mail, as well as, phone calls from fans seeking autographs. Some fans even stalked Dalton on MySpace which concerned his mother. She went to certian measures to keep Dalton from answering the phone and off his MySpace webpage.
Youth sports is growing larger by the day and this article demonstrates just that. I think that is an amazing milestone in these boys' lives, something that most individuals never have, and never will experience.
Monday, January 28, 2008 4:02:00 PM
Matt Flaus
Week One
Vol 10 iss 38 "Banner Year for Allstate in Bcs exposure"
I think that the college bowl system is a great way to generate income for the college athletic atmosphere. Each year every division one college team is elgiable to play in a bowl game at the begining of the season. If a team wins 6 games it is able to play in a bonus or bowl game. These games recieve a lot of attetion from the media because of all of the argument around college football not having a playoff format. This meida attetion also attracts corporate sponsers. These sponsers spend a lot of money to get their name and product associated with a bowl game. With all of the money that is generated by the bowl games, each school that participates in the game gets a certain percentage of the money that is generated. This money does not always go to the athletic departmant, this money is used to buy computers, build new buildings, and expand academic departments.
This year Allstate got a lot of exposure due to its sponsorship of the Sugar bowl and the national championship game. There are a lot of people that do not agree with this type of exposure because one of the usual bcs games is comprimised and designated the national championship game. I peresonally do not that that the national championship game should have a Corporate sponser, it should just go down as the NCAA national championship game. That way each team from respective confrences will have a chance to play in a bonus game and the national championship game will still have the Integrity of being the national championship game
Monday, January 28, 2008 5:13:00 PM
[Week 1]"USOC sponsors slow to commit past 2008 "
V-10, I-38, P-11
The article on the USOC inability to secure sponsorship for the Olympic Games was compelling. With the upcoming Olympic Games approaching soon the USOC has lost one sponsorship partner and announced that there are no renewals from current sponsors. The lack of sponsorship leaves many to speculation on the financial status of the Olympic Movement. The USOC currently has only $30million secured for the 2009-2012 quadrennial. It is estimated that the USOC will incur more than $600million in expenses for 2009-20012 quadrennial. Six of the eight sponsor level supporters contracts expire after 2008. Many of these sponsors have shown no interest in continuing their sponsorship of the Olympic Movement. USOC Chief Marketing Officer Rick Burton has indicated that the USOC is in conversation with several sponsors. He has announced that the USOC will likely secure four sponsorship agreements in the next 90 days.
I believe that the Olympic Movement is in a serious economic crisis due to several factors. First, sponsors are reevaluating their marketing objectives in regard to the Olympic Games. They are unhappy with the current state of ambush marketing of the Games. They are probably able to funnel marketing dollars in more creative venues that have greater growth potential and less risk of ambush marketing. This is leading to the rapid proliferation of sponsorship agreement in niche sports. Second, the current condition of the economy is causing more organizations to more effectively use their marketing dollars. Organizations can no longer throw marketing dollars to endeavors that won’t yield increased brand recognition. I believe that the USOC have to close the loopholes in their sponsorship agreements to prevent ambush marketing.
Monday, January 28, 2008 8:23:00 PM
Week 1- "With 'plus-one,' BCS Value would Soar"
Vol 10, Issue 38, P.3
If you ask any serious college football fan, the BCS "system" has been wrought with controversy and inconsistencies throughout the years. Many feel that instead of letting computers figure out who will play the national championship game, College Footballs should adopt something that permeates competitive sports: a playoff. However, in an odd twist of events College Football commisioners and Conference comissioners have shyed away from proposals for a playoff despite the fact that it is beleive that they would bring in more revenues. Several commisioners felt that a playoff system could have a negative effect on athletes academically, with the addition of another couple games. Others worry that a playoff could potentially destroy traditional conference matchups (Big Ten vs Pac-10, Rose Bowl)
I thought that this article was interesting for several reasons. As a fan of college football and athlete, I know the importance of tradition, and am glad to see that College Football commisioners do as well. It is surprising and refreshing in this day and age to see someone respecting the sport and not just looking to make another easy buck. I was also surprised about the stance that the commisioners took towards student academics. It was great that commisioners took into account the extra academics stresses that extra games could potentially place on student athletes.
Monday, January 28, 2008 8:37:00 PM
Week 1 - "NASCAR apparel, toys to hit big-box stores"
Vol. 10, Iss. 38, P.6
There's no doubt NASCAR has become a huge sport in this country, although with much diversity in it's receiving. The races are nationally broadcast EVERY week. The racetracks hold 50,70, some even 90,000 people. Since the races come to each track either once or twice per year, it is a huge event. However, it is still regarded as a "southern" sport. It seems the farther north in the country you go, the less it is conceived as a "sport" and more as "cars going around in circles".
With races in New Hampshie, NY, PA, Michican, Illinois, and Indianapolis, the majority of the races and ran base is in the southern states... with a very large percentage on the easy coast.
With regards to Outerstuff and Play Along Toys new of a new line of licensed NASCAR apparel and toys to hit the "big-box" stores in 2008... my initial reacion is SO WHAT. While NASCAR is still growing... I can already find these items and just about any store. I can already go to a Toys R Us and buy nascar toys with drivers names on them... or driver action figures. I can already go to WalMart and buy Nascar shirts or hoodies. I admit to being one of the minorities in this area that actually tunes in to Nascar, but I'm not about to start buying Nascar apparel at Toys R Us.
The first thing I thought of when I read this was why not open a chain of officially licensed Nascar stores. Sure every mall has a screenprinting shop that you can buy custom Nascar gear, but I think a licensed store with checkerboard floors and historic Nascar races playing on a Plasma TV would really hit a vacant niche.
Monday, January 28, 2008 9:49:00 PM
Week 1"Three sites want 2010 Super Bowl"
Vol. 10, Iss. 38, P.6
Over the past 42 years, the Super Bowl has gone from an event that hardly received any attention from networks and marketing firms to a spectacle that transcends any other sporting event to date. One such key factor that has become a contributor to the success of the Super Bowl is the location in which the event takes place. This article discusses the behind the scenes battle for hosting the Super Bowl and how three different cities are already bidding for the honorary spot in 2012. The three cities bidding for the spot are Houston, Indianapolis, and Glendale, Az. (which is hosting the game this year). The article further discusses contributing factors aside from the actual stadium that play a major role in city selection such as luxury hotel accommodations, fancy restaurants, weather (because for one reason or another the Super Bowl has been flocking to warmer areas of the country) and other things to do.
I personally feel each city should host the Super Bowl pending on the condition of the stadium and weather or not it can accommodate such a crowd. (Not because the weather might be warmer). I honestly do not know much about the different stadiums around the country but I do know that hosting such an event can boost that cities economy and provide a moment in the spot light. It also said in the article that the Super Bowl has a tendency to lean towards newer stadiums. Then why wasn't it in Pittsburgh a few years back?! If this theory were to hold true then I think they are going to pick Indianapolis to host the game becuase they have never hosted a Super Bowl before and they have a brand new stadium being built that will be ready for next season. (Dispite claims that they have a small market and a lack in hotel capacity). In closing, it's amusing to me that they are already worrying about this years in advance. Whose to say what the economy or stadiun is going to be like by then and if ti's still the right decision, but I guess we'll see.
Monday, January 28, 2008 9:55:00 PM
**Sorry--that's the 2012 Super Bowl :0)
Monday, January 28, 2008 9:56:00 PM
[[Week 1] “Stadiums open doors to extra events”
V-10, I-38, P-19
Don Muret’s look at the current trends in stadium building was both insightful and extremely informative. Living in Central Western Pennsylvania and only being an avid follower of the major sports and Penn State University I have not really paid attention to the amounts of money being spent on stadium projects not associated with these two areas. The part of this article concerning the facilities being built for major league soccer ( a sport that receives very little fan-fare in this part of the country) was astounding to me. It made me think of how narrow minded we can become based solely on location. To me it seems like the amount of money spent on a second tier sport is an incredulous waste of money but the profit margin would have to be there for the city, team owners, and tax payers to agree to build such facilities as those that are being built in Salt Lake City.
Another area that is disconcerting to me is the amount of money spent on minor league facilities. I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the first ever Altoona Curve game played in Blair County Ball Park. This was a minor league facility that even 10 years after it was built is still consistently ranked as one of the top facilities in minor league baseball, but there has been very little economic impact made on the community thanks to the installation of this facility. When I see minor league facilities for hockey, baseball, and basketball costing in the hundreds of million dollars it worries me that a community may be disappointed with its investment and eventually left with nothing more than an overpriced concert venue.
The boom may seem to be over as most cities that were desperate for facility upgrades have gotten them (1975 – 2005) but the costs of the latest facilities have not discouraged the groups that are building. I just worry that the construction of the state of the art may detract from the integrity of what is pure with the game. Lucas Oil Stadium to me is the most practical of all the new facilities being built. The draw of an NFL football franchise plus the possibility to host multiple final four contests makes the opportunity for profit seem almost assured. The most heart breaking of all the facilities is the New Yankee Stadium… Will the bleacher creatures be preserved? Will the Babe’s ghost still haunt the outfield? Not even a billion dollars can recreate or preserve these aspects… and those losses cannot be covered in any occurrence costs.
Monday, February 04, 2008 9:01:00 PM
Week 2 - "Web sites gear up for signing day"
Vol. 10, Iss. 40, P. 6
Tomorrow, February 6th, is another national holiday for football in early February. No, it's not the Super Bowl, it is National Signing Day, where high school football recruits across the nation declare where they will be hitting the gridion next fall. In the past this day has come and gone with little fanfare, but in the last few years, it has grown into quite a football/entertainment spectacle. Football experts love to predict things, and where a recruit is going to play is just another way for them to pronosticate. National Signing Day generates alot of interest among the major college football schools like Michigan, Notre Dame, and Florida. There is such a flurry of activity on this day, that the best media to keep abreast on who is going where is the Internet. ESPNU and Rivals.com are just two of the websites that will be updating throughout the day on these young men's decisions.
I have to admit that even I have gotten caught up in National Signing Day, which I usually do not care about, as I am not a big college football fan. But this year a local Western PA player is one of the top recruits in the country, and many college football powerhouse schools around the country are interested in him. I have heard that ESPN plans to broadcast his announcement in which he will choose either Michigan, Ohio State, or Penn State. The only drawback for me is I will be working when he makes his final choice sometime during the day. So I, like many, will be relying on the Internet to inform me of his college choice.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008 9:46:00 PM
Week 2-
'All In' aims for greater participation.
Vol. 10; Iss. 40; pg. 20
This article talks about the 22nd annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day which was yesterday, February sixth. This is a day that has been set aside to commemorate past, present, and future female athletes. Apparently, each years celebration is stamped with a theme and this year they focused on equal athletic opportunities; particularly women with disabilites. The author states that "neither the National Federation of State High School Athletic Associations nor the NCAA sanctions any interscholastic program, event or competition for individuals with disabilities" (Mullins, 2008). This statement really surprises me considering all the athletic programs that are made available to young athletes, these associations are unable to provide equal opportunity for disabled students. I thought for sure it would be a requirement due to the Americans with Disabilites Act and the Rehabilitation Act. It's unfortunate because even if a young girl is capable of playing on a team, she may not recieve the proper attention, playing time, or overall experience of her teammates. There are so many benefits for women who participate in athletics such as an increase in confidence and self-esteem; along with a positive body image. Young female athletes are also less likely to smoke and use drugs and become pregnant at a young age. Young girls who do not have the opportunities to participate in athletics due to a disability are therefore, at a greater disadvantage beyond any physical impairments.
This article mentions how new sports need to be created for better accomodate disabled athletes, such as goalball, and that scholastic institutions need to better accomodate such athletes. This article was meant to increase the awareness of readers, especially those involved with athletics, and to increase the participation percentage of disabled women in athletics. National Girls and Women in Sports Day is a great way to get women into an active and healthy lifestyle.
Thursday, February 07, 2008 5:03:00 PM
Week 2- "NHL gains more momentum in attendance"
V-10, I-39, p.5
With the combination of the NHL’s first outdoor game and 11 of the teams playing in front of sold out crowds, the leagues average attendance was shown to increase by 2% over the first half of the season. With the most recent figures, it is projected that the NHL will deliver its third consecutive attendance record in its third season since the lockout. Six teams from Canada and five teams from the U.S. are largely responsible for the increase reporting 100 percent capacity for more than 20 games this season. The mixture of competitive team, improved marketing and reduced ticket prices has fueled the increase. But the increase in attendance is not without problem spots. Six teams have reported average attendance below 15,000. The list of teams includes several franchises that have a history of being successful surprisingly.
I am glad that the NHL is finally able to establish themselves as a popular professional sport. The Winter Classic Outdoor game was huge a success and I think the NHL needs to include several of these types of games in their upcoming seasons. Living so close to Pittsburgh, I didn’t realize what a following hockey has up here. It has been players such as Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin who have been largely responsible for getting seats filled. I think the NHL has finally found their way out of the rut they have been in for so long and I wish them the best of luck.
Friday, February 08, 2008 10:13:00 AM
[Week 2] “Linking season tickets to annual giving can add to bottom line” V-10, I-40, P-13
This article talks about how many division I universities are thinking about changing the way they distribute season tickets and seats to their fans. These universities are thinking of changing how their football seats are distributed to fans by awarding those who contribute the most money to the university the better seats. This will in fact help to increase revenue at these universities; at least that is what they hope.
This article also talked about how the fans will have to maintain their annual giving in order to maintain their good seats. However, some argue that those fans that have been loyal to the university should also be rewarded, even if they haven’t given a large amount of money to the university. One point that was brought up in the article was that by donating money to a university, many can deduct that on their taxes every year while purchasing season tickets cannot be deducted.
I think that this idea is both good and bad. I think that it is a good idea to reward those who help contribute to their alumni because this is where a lot of the money comes from in order to give out scholarships and build new stadiums or buildings for the university. Without many of these contributions, the universities would not have the great athletes that they do and their programs would not be the same without the contributions.
On the other hand, I can agree with the part in the article that talks about rewarding those fans who have been long time season ticket holders. These people have been very loyal to the university and their athletics and they would probably show up to more games than some of those people who have just donated more to the university. I think that there needs to be some type of compromise as to how the university elects who will be chosen to receive the good seats and the season tickets.
Friday, February 08, 2008 1:13:00 PM
[Week 2] “Linking season tickets to annual giving can add to bottom line” V-10, I-40, P-13
This article talks about how many division I universities are thinking about changing the way they distribute season tickets and seats to their fans. These universities are thinking of changing how their football seats are distributed to fans by awarding those who contribute the most money to the university the better seats. This will in fact help to increase revenue at these universities; at least that is what they hope.
This article also talked about how the fans will have to maintain their annual giving in order to maintain their good seats. However, some argue that those fans that have been loyal to the university should also be rewarded, even if they haven’t given a large amount of money to the university. One point that was brought up in the article was that by donating money to a university, many can deduct that on their taxes every year while purchasing season tickets cannot be deducted.
I think that this idea is both good and bad. I think that it is a good idea to reward those who help contribute to their alumni because this is where a lot of the money comes from in order to give out scholarships and build new stadiums or buildings for the university. Without many of these contributions, the universities would not have the great athletes that they do and their programs would not be the same without the contributions.
On the other hand, I can agree with the part in the article that talks about rewarding those fans who have been long time season ticket holders. These people have been very loyal to the university and their athletics and they would probably show up to more games than some of those people who have just donated more to the university. I think that there needs to be some type of compromise as to how the university elects who will be chosen to receive the good seats and the season tickets.
Friday, February 08, 2008 1:13:00 PM
NY Story: Hospitality wins
February 2
Volume 10 Issue 39
I chose to read and review Daniel Kaplan's article dealing with the differences in corporate monies available at the Super Bowl with a New York Team sending a representative. The Super Bowl is an incredible moneymaker for the host city and an event that has effects on the area’s economy for months and years after the actual event. With New York sending a team though, the entire outlook for the event is a financial victory for Glendale.
The sentimental favorite for representation for the typical fan was the Green Bay Packers but it was a major victory for the Glendale economy when Brett Farve was not able to rally his Packers to victory. New Yorkers increased the market for luxury at the game. New York clientele is wealthy and they want to be pampered on the road much the same as at home. The influx of requests for luxury rental cars, luxury hotel suites, and first class accommodations is much higher when New Yorkers are involved. The Super Bowl will always be a sell out ticket wise but the impetus for finding other ways to stimulate the economy outside of the actual game will rely on the types of tourists that are brought into an area. With New York being the center of the universe money is not at a diminishing return and the locals were thankful.
This was an interesting article to me because it showed once again that even with something as pure as a championship contest the bottom line in today's sport is money. This game could be a huge winner for the host city local businesses because of the types of fans that will follow a team. New York fans, which are notorious for being fickle with their teams, cannot match up loyalty wise with a Green Bay Packer's fan, but when it comes to a contest to determine the biggest wallet the New Yorkers really look like Giants...
Sunday, February 10, 2008 1:25:00 PM
[Week 2] “Oregon going sans suites for new arena” V-10, I-39, P-3
I think this is a great idea and opportunity for University of Oregon sports. This new facility worth over $200 million is sure to be a major recruiting tool for not only players but new Oregon season ticket holders and students. The main theme within the article deals with the notion that suites are not a good idea for the collegiate basketball setting unlike the pros. I would agree with this sentiment because there is so much emotion and enthusiasm in the collegiate setting that most big spenders would like to be close to the action to get the true thrill of the game and atmosphere. I think collegiate sports helps to bridge the gap between students and adults because everyone attending can get lost in the culture of college sports, and more particularly college basketball.
I believe that this adjustment in consumer seating will start a trend in the new designs and construction ideas of collegiate arenas all over the country. I like the look of suites but I do understand that professional basketball is an 82 game regular season that attracts a lot of businessmen, who are in town to take care of negotiations. I feel that this trend will allow Oregon to have one of the loudest arenas with a major home court advantage after the construction of this stadium in 2010.
Sunday, February 10, 2008 5:06:00 PM
[Week 2] “Wrigley name holds big payoff”
V-10, I-39, P-4
Chicago Bus Wrigley Field is looking for a new sponsor to buy the naming rights of the ballpark. Wrigley field’s is one of the most recognized baseball parks even through they have not won a world series in over 100 years.
It is questionable to how much the park could receive on naming rights, owners of the park are optimistic and estimate to about 5 million to 11 million a year where as outside networks estimate a much lower price of 5 million tops because of the lack of playoff season and world series.
The baseball park is looking at all options and trying to get sponsors such as Gatorade and Series to look into the idea of naming right but also have possible partner is Under Armor. One thought might be to try and team up with Under Armor since they already have an advertising deal with the park. This seems to be the trend in recent years, for example the New York Yankees had Adidas purchase their naming rights in 1997 but the park still kept the names because Adidas just wanted the advertising to the park.
I think that this could be the best avenue for the Cubs to take because everyone knows about Wrigley’s Field and Chicago would not want to give up that name. Under Armor is becoming a popular brand in sports wear but could still use some recognition especially compared with Adidas and Nike. This exposure for Under Armor could benefit both parties in this situation and maybe the most beneficial in my opinion.
Sunday, February 10, 2008 6:05:00 PM
Week 2 -"Rutgers seeks naming-rights deal for stadium"
Vol. 10, Iss. 40, P. 4
At one time stadiums used to have traditional names, such as "Memorial Stadium" or perhaps were named after an influential coach of a past era. Today this is not the case as evidenced by Rutgers University attempting to sell the naming rights for their stadium. They are set to undertake a 102 million dollar renovation and it is estimated that a lucrative naming deal could garner the university up to 2 million dollars a year. Apparently this trend is nothing new as the University of Minnesota recently signed a 25 year deal worth 30 million dollars.
I think that selling the naming rights to your stadium/arena is a great way to make money for your program. This is especially important for programs in which the budgets are small and costs are rising. However, I wonder if there is a point at which university's can become too commercialized. Although Rutgers will earn loads of money through a potential deal, I think that the idea of an 102 MILLION dollar expansion could leave some disgruntled, especially in the academic realm. The article stated that the revenue earned from the naming rights could help pay for the debt that the school might incur due to construction costs. I think some would feel that money could be spent in other areas such as academics.
Monday, February 11, 2008 8:41:00 PM
[Week 3]"Rutgers seeks naming-rights deal for stadiums “
V-10, I-40, P-4
The article I read on Rutgers University trying to procure venue naming-rights was compelling. Rutgers University is currently seeking to sell the naming-right to their 14-year-old football stadium in Piscataway, N.J. Nelligan Sports is authorized to broker the deal for Rutgers for 20-to-25-year contract. Nelligan Sports is seeking to secure a deal that would exceed $1.4million annually. T.J. Nelligan CEO of Nelligan Sports believes that Rutgers can capitalize from its close proximity to New York City. Nelligan believes that being within arms reach of the largest media market it will be relatively easy to secure corporation sponsorship. Jeff Knapple who is currently selling the naming rights for the new home stadium to the Giants and Jets believes that Rutgers expectations are reasonable.
Venue naming-rights are transforming the sport business paradigm. Sport franchises are no longer family operations that are past through multi-generations. The naming-rights deals that are currently taking place are evident of the changing times. Large multinational corporations are seeking naming-rights that create a favorable image from these corporations. Naming-right is a great way from organizations to add additional revenue for an assortment of functions. I believe that the Rutgers deal will be a highly lucrative deal that will help defray construction cost. The income derived from naming-rights will provide additional amenities that will attract better athletes that will help generate revenue. In the case of Rutgers University I believe it’s difficult to sell the naming-rights to a pre-existing structure. I think that if this were a new facility that could possibly garner $50-60million.
Monday, February 11, 2008 10:18:00 PM
Week 2 - "Agent adds Gulbis to nontraditional stable of clients at IMG"
Vol. 10, Iss. 40, P.12
IMG's addition of Natalie Gulbis is one that doesn't puzzle me. They will take clients that have a name or face that is famous, and develop them in non-sport related ways. This article refers to the plans to take Natalie Gulbis and attach her name ot other platforms. They discuss television contracts as well as fashion endorsements. Among those, It wouldn't surprise me to make a more "sexy" line of women's golf apparel and endorse her name with it.
Natalie Gulbis is often times compared to Anna Kournikova. Anna's fame grew with the dating of a celebrity, the sexy attire she wore on the court, the modeling and swimsuit photo shoots... as well as the lacking ability to never bring home a big win. Natalie has bene linked to dating Big Ben of the Steelers... as well as doing photo shoots, wearing sexier golf apparel than most of the LPGA players... and never winning a big tournament. She has one LPGA win and has bested a 3rd in a major, although her career is still young. However, she doesn't seem to be pursuing golf excellenece as she does the glam lifestyle.
While normally champions are linked to the big endorsements, in women's sports, it appears as if beauty and an average game are enough to become more famous than those female golfers that have one several majors.
Monday, February 11, 2008 10:57:00 PM
Week 2- "Linking season tickets to annual giving can add to bottom line"
Vol. 10, Iss. 40, P. 13
This article discusses how division I schools are strategizing new ways to increase income at sporting events through reseating their season ticket holders based on the amount of money the individual contributes to the institution. Through this process they hope to attract loyal alumni and fans with rather deep pockets inorder to gain more revenue than they alerady are. Such schools that have already implemented this method are Iowa, Virginia Tech and Pittsburgh among many. However, this type of strategy has it's downfall and has made some loyal fans distraught; even going as far as pressing a law suit against the institution such as the instance that occured at the University of Pittsburgh (go figure) and it's basketball program.
I feel that it has potential benefits on a revenue standpoint because it could ultimately bring in more money however what about the people who may not have alot to give but have been loyal for years? It seems like there is alot of grey area with this issue that hasn't been ironed out yet. In addition, it's difficult to make everyone happy. There's always going to be someone in objection especially when you tell them they need to be moved to peanut heaven after they've had the same seat fromt row for 50 years.
The article also discusses a priority points system that may help in reducing the greay area just by saying look--"you get this many points then you will earn this type of seat in this section." The items of this list seeem to be clear and to the point with little room for complaints. They seem to cover a little bit of all fan types from the ones that donate thousands a year to little old grandpa who has been coming since day 1. Nevertheless, season ticket holders should accept what they are given dispite where your located. Hey, atleast your at the game. :0)
Monday, February 11, 2008 11:03:00 PM
Matt Flaus
[Week 3]"Rutgers seeks naming-rights deal for stadiums “
V-10, I-40, P-4
After reading this article I think that one of the hardest decisions for a university is wether to sell naming rights to a stadium or not. While selling the naming rights to a stadium could make a lot of money for a sports program, there are a lot of other things to consider. First, despite the amount of money that the sponser would pay, is the sponser worthy of carring the name of the stadium for your program.
An example that may be some what radical is trojan. If Trojan condoms wanted to sponser the IUP stadium for 55 million dollars, would you want your university to carry that name for the rest of its existance. The sponser must exibit the same values and goals as the university.
Seconldy, the university must be able "sell" the product of the sponser. If IUP decided to sell naming rights to under armour they would most likely have to supply and sell all under armour merchandise. Althouh the 55 million dollar contract would be great for the program imediately, they may not be able to sell the product because of the clientel of the sporting events. Under armour merchandise is very expensive and IUP would most likely have to supply all of its athletic teams with their products. And the university would have to sell the prodcut and if the patrons of the athletic events were not at a high or medium level of income they may not be able to "sell" the gear. These are just a few things to think about
Monday, February 11, 2008 11:14:00 PM
Week 3 - "TWC, Fox Sports in Talks over Bobcats Rights"
Vol.10 Iss. 40, P.1
I chose to do my article review on the article, “TWC, fox Sports in talks over Bobcats rights”. This article looked at how a smaller local news channel holds the broadcast rights to a majority of the Charlotte Bobcat’s broadcasts. This article appealed to me after reading chapter six of the textbook and examining just how the evolution of sports on television has taken place.
News Channel 14 now owns the rights to these broadcasts and, a Time Warner owned enterprise. According to Fox representatives sports programming only applies to 1% of total broadcasting on this station. The station also does not have widespread viewership throughout the state of North Carolina. These would all be violations of the current NBA licensing agreements. One of the biggest hold ups at this point is that Fox does not want to raise the price for distribution of its FSN South package because they have now acquired these broadcasts (this would result if there were another licensing fee to be paid). The NBA has said that the Bobcat’s television deal is one of the worst in the league.
This is a very appealing article. Since learning about how sports marketing and television have expanded it was interesting to see that these battles are still waged currently. For me, however I do not see why Fox would want to take on more NBA broadcasts for anything more than brand appeal. With sports audiences becoming fewer and fewer and the prospect of having to pay more in license fees and subsequently more to offer a product I just do not understand the appeal. I guess, however, history has taught us not to question Rupert Murdoch.
Sunday, February 17, 2008 5:54:00 PM
Vol. 10, Iss. 40, P.17
"What the online content debate means for:"
Networks: This idea of digital rights is one that really interested me. Networks today want deals that include rights to internet, broadband, and mobile video content, while teams, leagues, and owners find it more profitable to seperate them. This often could bring up issues of internet data ownership which is something often times under different jurisdictions of government.
Athletes:
Athlets who are fan favorites have become high profile 'bloggers'
While nobody ever truly knows if the athlete themselves right the blog, or it is their publicist, it is still interesting to go to your favorite athletes blog and get his opinions on topics. You can also get behind the scenes stories and pictures. I personally enjoy when athletes will hold small contests on their webpage and offer jerseys, balls, or even meetings in person to the winner.
Leagues and Owners:
Sports business is hitting the digital age hard. This article referred the the NFL's exclusivity for all digital video rights. This hurts the ability of non-NFL.com affiliated team sites to show game highlights.
The NBA licenses highlights to partners like ESPN, but is still restricted.
The NHL is the most open about their video rights, and they are also the least watched out of the major league sports. They believe by licensing to Youtube, among others, they can help to promote the sport
Monday, February 18, 2008 11:24:00 PM
[Week 3] - "State Farm adds LeBron, Turner deal" V-10, I-41, P-3
I think the decision for State Farm to expand their advertising to Lebron James is an excellent decision. Lebron is one of the world's top athletes and will be one of the most recognizable faces in the world in a short time if he is not so already. This young superstar presents himself as humble, approachable, mature, and logical but still has the realness and credibility to relate to individuals at all levels regardless of age. James has a unique ability to be marketable at a number of different levels because of his ability to be charismatic. I think this is a great decision for State Farm because he is an asset that should be representing an insurance company because he is worth so much to so many different markets himself.
The competition for insurance advertising is starting to become a very competitive industry with Geico and Allstate. I am unsure of the effectiveness that goes into sports marketing, but I think that the competitors of State Farm are in the business and you need to keep your competitive edge in this industry. I do not think that there is any superstar better in any sport to be associated with than Lebron James, and I might sound crazy but I believe he is bigger than Tiger Woods because of the sport that Lebron plays. State Farm has made a major committement to advertising in basketball and I believe that they have made a very sound economic decision.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008 8:36:00 PM
Week 3- "NFL, stadiums rethinking alcohol policies", Vol. 10, Iss. 41, Pg.7
With a recent rash of well-publicized alcohol-related incidents at NFL stadiums, the league, along with stadiums officials and outside security experts, are rethinking the alcohol policies of NFL stadiums. Now, anyone that has ever been to a game at an NFL stadium knows that there is a significant amount of alcohol consumption going on, and the probability of accidents and fights is much greater than if alcohol was not involved. An NFL stadium is a place of high energy and high emotions, and when you add drinking to the mix, things can happen. I can remember one of my first trips to Three Rivers Stadium to watch the Steelers play, when I walked through a fight between two fans. I am sure that alcohol had to be involved someway.
NFL stadiums have made a couple policy changes in order to stem the tide of unruly fan behavior thanks to alcohol. In most NFL stadiums, alcohol can no longer be served after the end of the 3rd quarter. In 2007, the New York Jets announced that there would be no sales of alcohol in the stadium at all during the last Jets home game. But fans are smart; they simply just increased the amount of drinking that they did outside of the stadium in the parking lots. This is usually the place where most of the drinking at an NFL game occurs, and it can definitely be classified as binge drinking. There is just not as much control in a large crowded area with fans gearing up for the game. I can not imagine NFl stadium management trying to extend their influence into the surrounding parking lots in regards to alcohol.
I also think it is hypocritical of the NFL to be so concerned over the alcohol policies of their stadiums when many of their biggest sponsors are beer companies like Coors and Budweiser. When you have beer commercials spouting that they are the official beer of the NFL and advertising all around the stadium hawking their product, it is a very mixed message that the NFL is sending.
Thursday, February 21, 2008 11:10:00 AM
[Week 3] “NFL, stadiums rethinking alcohol policies”
V-10, I-41, P-7
This article was about how the NFL should reevaluate the league rules on alcohol consumption of games. There are a variety of problems that arise from alcohol consumption of stadiums from spectators being out-of-control behavior that is offensive to other fans, injuries, and loss of seats from ticket holders. Stadium managers always try to provide the best experience possible at functions at the stadium but sometimes it is hard to control people and their actions especially when they are intoxicated. The managers try to prevent these behaviors from happening but lawsuits steal occur from fans that have unpleasant experiences from these people or situations.
The problem I see with the reevaluating the policies at games, is that if they would set a limit of alcohol consumed at games then fans are just going to drink more alcohol before they come into the stadiums and there behavior is still going to be the same. People tailgate all the time and for some people that is a ritual or the reason that they go to the games. I think fans would be upset about limitations of alcohol but again I think they would try and find different ways to bring alcohol into the stadium or even just drink twice as much before they enter the stadium.
In my opinion, every game I have been to there are some people that are out of control but if you take away their season tickets or give them big enough penalties for disturbing people like kicking them out, they are going to rethink how they act the next time. It is necessary to always reevaluate procedures in order to make the game day experiences enjoyable and safe but stadiums need to think also that they are gaining a huge profit from beer and alcohol sales.
Sunday, February 24, 2008 6:54:00 PM
Week 3- “NFL, stadiums rethinking alcohol policies”
V-10, I-41, P-7
It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that a when you combine two of Americas favorite weekend events, drinking and football, there are bound to be problems. The NFL is concerned that unruly fan behavior and the accidents that accompany them will both hurt attendance and a blemish to the league reputation.
League officials and team owners have taken steps to remedy the problem by revoking tickets and halting alcohol sales at the end of the third quarter. The league will have to take much larger steps to curb the problem. They should start by controlling the huge advertising campaigns engrossing nearly of the commercials and radio advertisement. Limitations could be placed on the content of the ads as well as the frequency at which they air. It’s bad policy to discourage drinking and at the same time allow so much influence buy the big name companies.
The League should also think about ways of better policing the tailgate parties. Your typical tailgate has more alcohol stored in coolers and RV’s than most bars sell in an average day. The average Joe would rather get drunk in the parking lot than pay 7 dollars a beer in the stadium. The problem lies in the sub culture of power drinkers that drink like fish thinking it’s the only way to have a good time. Large crowds squeezed into tight spaces equal an inevitable problem. Security could do a better job of watching the parking lots for potential problems and revoking admission in some instances. Although this may be a difficult and almost impossible task, better policing of the tailgates would be a good first step to a more enjoyable experience for fans.
Sunday, February 24, 2008 10:05:00 PM
"Sprite, T-mobile, Wriggley Lead All-Star Activation"
Vol. 10, Iss.41, P.34
The NBA All-Star game was used as an opportunity for many businesses to promote their product. After attending the game myself in New Orleans, this was clearly evident. Nearly every event was promoted by some product. Examples of this included the Sprite Slam Dunk Contest and the Playstation Skills Challenge which took place the night before the actual All-Star game. All of these corporate sponsorships were a prime example of the growing trend of sponsorship in the sports world. One can hardly attend any sort of sporting event with being inundated with product placements.
Sports businesses were able to use different types of technology in order to promote their products as well. A prime example of this was in regards to the Sprite Slam Dunk Contest. The slam dunk contest allowed fans and spectators to vote for the winner via text messages and online voting. In addition to this, each contestant in the competition used youtube.com and other websites in order to promote their popularity. Technology and online marketing have allowed sports businesses to ultimately change the way in which they do business.
Sunday, February 24, 2008 11:53:00 PM
[Week 3] “Gridiron Bash pumps up spring football” V-10, I-4, P-4
This article talks about making the spring college football practices more exciting by adding famous rock and country bands to the agenda. MSL’s Gridiron Bash will be televised on Fox Sports Net on April 19 and 20 and there are many musical acts that will participate in this bash. These televised practices will be of football teams from schools such as Texas A&M, Colorado, Washington, Tennessee, and Penn State. The Saturday night games that will hopefully be viewed by about 65 millions people will also be able to view the many parties accompanying these games. The Sunday night practices will also show highlights of recruiting and spring games.
Last year there were 71,000 viewers who took part in this event. This year, the MSL is hoping to gain over a million people. In fact, they are still not finished with getting schools to participate in this event. Maryland, Alabama, Boston College, Kentucky, and Texas at El Paso are all still pondering over the deals. Some of the musical guests include Kelly Clarkson, Fall out Boy, Good Charlotte, and Black Crows. The schools that host the Gridiron Bash will receive bonuses if the ticket sales reach certain amounts.
I think that this is a good idea. It is a nice preview of what will be expected in the fall. I also feel as though this is another great way for universities to gain revenue and maybe be able to put that revenue towards more scholarships to improve their athletic programs. With the musical guests that are on the list, I think that more people will want to be at the bash than watch it on TV. It is a combination of sports and a musical concert; so many people can get the best of both worlds.
However, I do feel as though this may be something that is too early for football. I know that they have been doing the Gridiron Bash for a while now, but I would rather see something like this in the fall right before football begins. April is a month of baseball and this could take away from the baseball games that are being played those two nights. I also think that if this was closer to when football begins, there would be more people who would attend this event and then the schools would receive even more revenue.
Monday, February 25, 2008 11:32:00 AM
Week 3-"With title, IMG gets chance to further develop the Eli brnad"
Vol. 10, Iss. 41, P.11
Living in the shadow of an older sibling is one of the hardest things one can deal with in the inner dynamics of a family. However, when your the Manning family, there's plenty of room to have your own light. Everyone knows who Peyton Manning is-successful quarterback of the Indianapolis Colts, Super Bowl champion and MVP as well as a light hearted endorser of major companies and products. However, before this season, hardly anyone knew who Eli Manning was. He was the "other Manning brother in the NFL", the shy-not so out spoken individual who accomplished the unthinkable this past season...and brought a new light and a new face to more than the Super Bowl history books. Eli Manning is now a hero, taking his team (New York Giants)to victory this past Super Bowl, but now he has alot of off season opportunities and work ahead of him. Major endorsers and companies are eager to sign Eli on to do ads and other forms of product marketing and some are wondering if he will live up to or surpass his older brother. Undoubtly, the request for both brothers is huge, however, they are different people with different brands which may making the two of them difficult to market. Nevertheless, companies will find ways to get the Manning pair together on some ads. It's nice to see that Eli has been able to step out from behind his brother's shadow and make a name for himself in not only the NFL but among marketers and endorsers.
Monday, February 25, 2008 2:24:00 PM
Rutgers seeks Naming-Rights deal for Stadium
Volume 10. issue 40, P.2
The state school of New Jersey is seeking a naming rights deal to help off-set construction costs on stadium expansion. A deal in the market of 2 million per season seems to be logical. Rutger’s views it’s location in close proximity to one of the largest media markets in the world as being a key component in its attempt to solidify a reputable and deep pocketed sponsor.
The stadium expansion has been approved by the Rutger’s board of governors at a cost of $102 million. The naming rights accumulated fees could then be used to off-set unforeseen construction costs. As it stands now the University of Minnesota which was able to sell the naming rights to their new stadium at a cost of $35 million dollars.
The quick availability of cash is a short term solution that does not add any long term nostalgia to the stadiums of the present. Candlestick Park will always be candlestick park even though the 49ers sold their soul to finance signing bonuses for unproven quarterbacks. Integrity is still present at University Park and Beaver Stadium is still representative of the program and not corporate America. Three Rivers represented the city of Pittsburgh, Heinz Field represents a cry for corporate money. Once again another example of the harsh reality of what keeps big-time sports afloat… money
Monday, February 25, 2008 3:16:00 PM
Matt Flaus
Week 3- “NFL, stadiums rethinking alcohol policies”
V-10, I-41, P-7
I think that the NFL alcohol policies are about as strict as they can get. The people that over the age to drink should be able to in a responsible. The point of going to a major league game in any sport is to go and have a good time. A lot of people like to have drinks at the sporting events and others like to get hammered. Sometimes the people that are “responsibly hammered” are part of the entertainment. The main problem with the stadiums is the security. As a stadium manager it is impossible to limit pre game alcohol consumption without hindering you ticket sales or altering your fan base.
Most NFL teams have an extremely large fan base and there are quite a few people on the waiting lists to get season tickets. I think if people were on a three strike rule plan, meaning if they caused three problems there season tickets would be revoked, a lot of people would not act in such problem causing manners. Also having more city police at the games would help behavior. No one is scared of that 16 year old 5’9 175 pound high school football player with his event staff shirt and a big chew in to make himself look tough. If managers would hire real policeman to control the games a lot of problems would be resolved
Monday, February 25, 2008 6:09:00 PM
Matt Flaus
Week 3- “NFL, stadiums rethinking alcohol policies”
V-10, I-41, P-7
I think that the NFL alcohol policies are about as strict as they can get. The people that over the age to drink should be able to in a responsible. The point of going to a major league game in any sport is to go and have a good time. A lot of people like to have drinks at the sporting events and others like to get hammered. Sometimes the people that are “responsibly hammered” are part of the entertainment. The main problem with the stadiums is the security. As a stadium manager it is impossible to limit pre game alcohol consumption without hindering you ticket sales or altering your fan base.
Most NFL teams have an extremely large fan base and there are quite a few people on the waiting lists to get season tickets. I think if people were on a three strike rule plan, meaning if they caused three problems there season tickets would be revoked, a lot of people would not act in such problem causing manners. Also having more city police at the games would help behavior. No one is scared of that 16 year old 5’9 175 pound high school football player with his event staff shirt and a big chew in to make himself look tough. If managers would hire real policeman to control the games a lot of problems would be resolved
Monday, February 25, 2008 6:10:00 PM
[Week 3]" NFL, stadiums rethinking alcohol policies”
V-10, I-41, P-35
This particular article regarding alcohol policies in stadiums was very compelling. The NFL has witnessed a rapid proliferation in unruly fans due to alcohol consumption. The NFL Security Advisory Group have started to witness that younger fans are attending the games simply to binge drink. Their have been several noted alcohol-related incidents throughout the league. Currently, the NFL has implemented a league wide rule that bans stadiums from selling alcohol after the third quarter. Many facilities managers and security experts believe that the NFL has to enforce more drastic means to prevent these incidents. The league understands that these unruly fans actions have detrimental effects on fans experience.
I believe that this is a serious problem for the National Football League. First, the NFL needs to protect the safety of the fans. These unruly spectators are placing fans at serious risk for injury. The current revocation procedures simply aren’t enough to deter alcohol consumption. Fans will continue to be unruly until they are caught by stadium officials. I believe the league should ban alcohol consumption in stadiums to prevent unruly behavior. I believe that the NFL has to protect the image of the league. The fan experience is the reason the NFL has garnered such popularity over the years. The downside of banning alcohol in stadiums will lead to consumption in the parking lots. I believe that the NFL needs to project a family-friendly environment.
Monday, February 25, 2008 8:58:00 PM
(Week 3)"Sponsors back ESPN film on race relations" V-10, I-41, P-8
Sporting goods apparel company Russell Athletic and sister company Spalding, along with State Farm Insurance having committed to sponsoring an ESPN film titled “Black Magic”. The film which is a two part series that will air in March, tells the story of the prejudice that defined the Civil Rights Movement in America, through the lives of basketball players and coaches who attended black colleges and universities. It is narrated by Samuel L. Jackson and Wynton Marsallis, and is produced by former NBA star Earl Monroe.
The film will be shown without commercial interruption, but sponsorship packages have exceeded one million dollars. Sponsors will have several opportunities to market themselves through ads before and after the show as well as tune-in ads. The sponsors will also have the opportunity to present themselves at numerous screenings around the country.
I think this is a great project done by ESPN. February is black history month and this is a great opportunity to celebrate the rise of African Americans in college athletics. African Americans have overcame a great deal of diversity and this video will help give those athletes who led the way they credit they deserve.
Monday, February 25, 2008 11:08:00 PM
Week 3 - "Track: Race title sponsorship not for sale"
Vol. 10, Iss. 41, P.23
This article brought something to my attention that I hadn't quite realized. In sports today, every stadium, event, show, and advertising slot is filled by a sponsor. NASCAR has 2500lb racecars that are driving billboards for huge companies.
Personally, I believe NASCAR has done an amazing job of pulling in sponsors and generating and incredible amount of revenue. This article discusses the face that the Daytona 500 is not sponsored by any company. It used to be sponsored by STP, but currently is not. In a sport where there is an advertisement on every inch of real estate that can be purchased, I found it honorable that the owning company of Daytona International Speedway doesn't want a sponsor. The Daytona 500 is the biggest race of the year, and one of a few that I am willing to sit and watch the entire race... and i found it both admirable and odd that it wasn't sponsored or "presented by" a huge company.
On a sidenote, it still feels weird for me to say the Nascar "Sprint" Cup Series... growing up in a family of racing fans, it'll always be the "Winston Cup" in my mind.
Monday, February 25, 2008 11:31:00 PM
[Week 4] “Club taking a swing at no-cash concessions” V-10, I-43, P-7
This article talks about one baseball stadium trying to eliminate the amount of employee theft that occurs by eliminating cash as a way to purchase food and souvenirs. The Wichita Wingnuts who use the Lawrence-Dumont Stadium are going to try to have all their fans purchase Wingnut stored-value cards, or use their own personal credit card, in order to purchase anything in the stadium, such as food, beverages, clothing and souvenirs. Patrons visiting this stadium will only be allowed to use cash to purchase their tickets to the game and to purchase the Wingnut stored-value cards.
The Wingnuts President Chris Presson is working with his staff to try and cut back on the number of thefts they have each year from employees by not even having the temptation around. He feels that if he eliminates his customers from using cash to purchase items, the employees won’t have the opportunity to take the cash. Presson also anticipates that by not having cash available, it will eventually cut back on their payroll as well because they won’t need to have people staying after the game is over to count the money.
There have been some professional teams who have tried this method back in the mid 1990’s, but later decided this was not the way to go due to a limited number of fans who were actually interested in this. Therefore, many do not think that the Wingnuts will have much success with their method.
I have mixed feelings about this. In one way, I think that it is a good idea to eliminate the use of cash to pay for things, and in another way I don’t think it will work. By eliminating the use of cash, it could make transactions much quicker and, when using a credit card, fans can often purchase more than they would with cash because a credit card has larger limits than people usually carry in cash. Therefore, the stadium could possibly generate a larger amount of revenue this way.
On the other hand, I am kind of siding with those professional teams who have already tried this. Some people refuse to use credit cards or even to purchase store valued cards. The stadium may loose a larger portion of their fans if they decide to eliminate the use of cash to pay for items. Others may be fearful that if they do not use all of their money on the store valued cards, they won’t be able to get the money back, and therefore not want to purchase a card. I think that as long as the United States of America is still printing US currency, you will always have to have the option of paying with cash.
Friday, February 29, 2008 8:25:00 AM
[Week 4] “Club taking a swing at no-cash concessions”
V-10, I-43, P-7
This article was about how the Wichita Wingnuts are becoming a cashless facility. The Wingnuts are home to the Lawrence-Dumont Stadium and the stadium in the past has experienced employee theft, long lines, and spent extra money to run their concessions smoothly at the ballpark. So, they have decided to go cashless! The purpose of this is to eliminate the theft, long lines, and extra money needed to run the ballpark by using Total Venue Control(TVC) smart-cards. These smart cards will be Wingnuts stored-value cards in different value increments that customers will use to purchase concessions or merchandise at the stadium but credit cards will also be permitted for use as well.
What are the Wingnuts thinking? That is the question that is on everyone’s mind especially the ballparks that have tried this before like the Chicago White Sox and Carolina Panthers. White Sox’s and Panthers did not have much success from this type of system but I guess you never know what could happen. TVC has been success for in Europe and has sold the idea to the Wingnuts that this is the future in sporting events around the world. All the problems they had before with theft and expenses will be eliminated and large revenue will be the result.
Many people are interested to see what the outcome of this cashless system is going to be, if people had to bet they are going to bet that the system will not work and the stadium will go back to accepting cash. I think that this is a good idea, I mean you see the TV commercials for Visa that show how writing a check or using cash stops the flow of things at various stores, why not do the same thing at ballparks? I do think it is a good idea but if the idea will be won over by the fans is another question but then again everything is going cashless from gas bumps to fast-food places.
Sunday, March 02, 2008 7:00:00 PM
Week 4 - "ACC sets standard for tourney revenue"
Vol. 10, Iss. 42, Pg. 18
With the NCAA tournament rapidly approaching, college basketball fans began March Madness with conference tournaments. Nowhere is there a more popular or profitable tournament in college basketball than in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The ACC usually makes around $10 million every year from the tournament. This number is even higher, though, because it does not take into account the money made from TV contracts. The TV rights to the conference tourney are already included in $30 million dollar contract between the ACC and Raycom Sports.
So what does make the ACC Tournament the premier revenue generator that it is? I would attest that standing to the history, tradition, and the fact that the ACC always has some of top teams in the country. Some of the best basketball players ever have starred in the ACC Tournament. These include players like Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan, Grant Hill, David Thompson, and Christian Laettner. Every year, programs like North Carolina, Duke, and Maryland reload their rosters with top-caliber talent to make another run at the ACC title. And there are so many great moments emblazoned in the public memory that occurred for ACC teams. Laettner sinking the last second shot off the full court pass to beat Kentucky in the Final Four. Jimmy Valvano of NC State running around the court in joy over the upset of Houston. Anything with Michael Jordan and the UNC Tar Heels. There is just so much tradition and history in the ACC that it is far and away the premier conference in the country, which in turn makes it the best revenue generator.
Sunday, March 02, 2008 10:28:00 PM
(Week 4) "NFL paying Goodell like a veteran"
Vol. 10, Iss. 43, Pg. 1, 26.
This article is very interesting because it shows the true value of a good commissioner at the professional sports level. The NFL went to a new commissioner Roger Goodell, Goodell is said to be making $11.2 million dollars annually. This figure is stagering because he is paid up around the top players in professional sports. I would not think that the commissioner of sports league make that much money. In the article they also say that David Stern and Bud Selig make around the same money and the commissioner of hockey makes in excess of six million a year. I guess this shows the importance of a good commissioner to the owners of the game. The NFL had major issues with the marketing of the league because of its reputation of their players. Since Goodell came in he has had to deal with Vick and "Pacman" Jones, he took hard stances with both and handed down severe punishments. The owners like Goodell because he helps to sell the NFL and that put more money in their pockets.
I agree with the high salaries of these commissioners because if the leagues are willing to pay them this much money it must be for a major reason. These individuals help to put a credible face next to a particular part of a sports industry. If the league starts to show signs of dissapointment then this falls back on them. I think that the job probably sounds better than it is, I am sure there is a significant amount of work and behind the scenes action. All these commissioners have done a great job with their sport, but I think the key is going to be the expansion of these sports and the number of markets they can tap into to generate revenues. I think this was a very interesting and beneficial article becasue it helps to understand the ligistics of professional sports.
Monday, March 03, 2008 12:16:00 PM
Week 4-
"Saints want Super Bowl to return"
Vol. 10 Iss. 42 pg. 4
This article discusses super bowl 2012 and New Orleans desire to be the official hosts of the game. In the past, New Orleans held the most super bowl games than any other city, nine games. However, due to the tragic events of Hurricane Katrina, the city was unable to place any bids on the game for past few years. Rita Benson LeBlanc is the owner/executive vice president of the New Orleans Saints and fears that their bid may be delayed by a year due to the inability to coordinate community and government agencies who are all necessary to have when hosting this large event.
Many individuals feel that New Orleans would have a very good chance in winning the bid. Some of the factors they are looking at include their strong history of hosting the game. Some people feel that New Orleans reflects a festive atomosphere that is very conducive to the Super Bowl. They are also attempting to play the "sympathy" card in hopes of winning the bid as well. (the NFL has renovated the Louisiana Superdome already). Some factors they feel that will go against them recieving the bid is how strongly the community will support it and the lease that the team currently holds with the city. It is set to expire in 2010, however, they seems to believe that they are going to make the April 1st deadline indicating the establishment of a new lease. I personally would like to see the Super Bowl in New Orleans. After the devestation that was caused by Katrina an event like this one would really help to boost it's financial status. This city does have an atmosphere that is perfect for all the excitement that accompany's this event which would inturn greatly benefit the NFL.
Monday, March 03, 2008 4:55:00 PM
Week 4 - "National Frozen League should warm up to neutral sites"
Vol. 10. Iss.43, P. 23
Everyone who is into sports know that certain sports are to be played during certain seasons, right? For instance, football season is held during the end of summer, fall and beginning of winter months, while baseball begins when the cold weather and snow breaks and lasts through the warms days of summer. To most of us, these types of seasons and weather conditions in which these seasons are played add to the beauty of the spectator experience and all around game. However, the author of this article begs to differ and expresses his opinion that leagues such as the NFL should seek more neutral climates during their season. He expresses that practically all other professional sport leagues except the NFL play in either in door facilities or tend to their playing grounds in order to "level the playing field" between the teams. However, in the NFL, games are played in either hell or high water. The article continues to express that sure, these experiences make for a good story to tell your friends but they do not allow the athletes to showcase their hard work and planning this they should seek places that climates are neutral and both teams are use to the same conditions.
Personally, I'm one of those people who appreciates the game more when the players are faced with unthinkable weather conditions. It simply seperates the men from the boys, makes for a more interesting experience, and definately gives a story to tell! ( For example, I was at the Monday night Steeler game where Heinz Field was a complete mud bowl and there wern't even any lines on the field! We may not have played our best but it was great!) Nevertheless, football is a grit-iron sport where the toughtest of the tough battle it down for the glory and something such as rain should not delay their contest. As for other sports, they should learn to adapt to conditions that arn't as ideal. Maybe it'll make for a more entertaining experiece...but that's just an optimistic idea.
Monday, March 03, 2008 8:41:00 PM
Vol. 10, Iss. 43, p. 23
"National Frozen League should warm up to neutral sites"
The author makes a poor argument about how the NFL should have the playoff games in a neutral warm weather site or indoor dome. He compares the NFL to tennis and golf, which don't play in the rain. THey are also individual players sports. He then compares the NFL to the MLB, and notes the MLB don't play in the rain. While baseball is only partially a team sport, it requires many individual plays and a baseball is greatly influenced by a downpour... moreso than a football.
Finally, he makes a dumb argument about why NASCAR doesn't race in the rain. Obviously that is incredibly dangerous for cars that run on slick tires and have lots of horsepower.
Part of the reason to play the ENTIRE season is to have home field advantage. Teams like New England, Pittsburgh, and GreenBay are always in the playoffs and love the home field advantage of sloppy fields and poor weather in January. There would be no reason to make the playoffs in first place or 2nd place if all the games are in a neutral field. The only advantage would be to have a first round by if you're a number 1 or 2 seed. I think this guys argument is absolutely, disturbingly terrible!
Monday, March 03, 2008 9:23:00 PM
Major League Baseball is imposing limits on news outlets posting online content developed at league facilities. This new rule which will be enforced for this year’s season, will limit news organizations form posting no more than 120 seconds of audio and/or video each day. The 120 seconds cannot be streamed live and no more than seven photos from any game can be displayed on a site. Audio or video content created at league facilities must be removed from a news site after 72 hours and Game highlights can only be shown by services which have a separate rights deal with MLB's subsidiary MLB Advanced Media.
The MLB's restrictions for online video and audio content closely resemble those produced by the NFL in May 2007. The NFL limits online video footage to 45 seconds per day. Video cannot include game highlights, cannot be live and must be removed from the web site within 24 hours.
It seems that Major League Baseball by restricting third party sites in an effort to maximize their online revenue both directly through their own web sites and indirectly through online rights deals with partner sites. By preventing other sites from showing extensive multimedia, MLB is aiming to increase traffic to the league owned sites. I think that this may slow down the licensed sites because of too much web traffic. I think this is limiting freedom of speech and its not fair to many third party sites.
Monday, March 03, 2008 9:28:00 PM
Matt Flaus
(Week 4) "NFL paying Goodell like a veteran"
Vol. 10, Iss. 43, Pg. 1, 26.
This article was very interesting to me and at first I was taken back. I could not imagine that a league commissioner would make almost as much money as the athletes in a sport. But as I thought I came to the conclusion that it is probably one of the hardest jobs in professional sports. As a commissioner you have to make widely criticized decisions on a daily basis. Each one of your decisions will be talked about for months if the media does not agree with it. I think that the current NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell, has earned his 11.2 million dollar contract. Before he became commissioner the NFL had a reputation of having a thugged out almost classless organization within itself. Any type of act was delt with mainly by team owners and general managers. But there is much more bias when these officials deal with disciplinary issues because of the economic impact it may have on the team. I think that Goodell is doing a great job with the NFL especially because of the most recent incidences with certain players. I am glad that he is getting rewarded for his work and I hope that this incentive can help him in his task of restoring the NFL to a class act organization and keep the people who don’t deserve to play off the field and the millions of dollars out of their pockets and keep the “role Models” out of the spotlight.
Monday, March 03, 2008 10:29:00 PM
((Week 4) "NFL paying Goodell like a veteran"
Vol. 10, Issue.43, Pg. 1, 26.
This article about Roger Goodell’s salary was really compelling. The headline of the article makes it seems as though Goodell is exploiting the NFL. I understand that that Roger Goodell compensation is in tune with the commissioners from other sporting leagues. David Stern and Bud Selig compensation packages are equal to what Goodell are receiving. People have to understand that Goodell is the commissioner of sporting world’s most volatile sport. He has to constantly deal with protecting the image of the league. I believe that Roger Goodell is doing an exceptional job with NFL. He has improved the way in which many fans view the league. He has gotten rid of the bad apples that have tarnished the league. In addition, the NFL is a multibillion dollar enterprise that is simply compensating individuals their market value. As a proponent of big business I expect the salaries of commissioners to continue to rise. If the NFL were to become publicly traded entity would we really see a rise in salaries. Imagine, Roger Goodell making the same money as someone like Steve Jobs.
Monday, March 03, 2008 10:56:00 PM
Week 5 - "NBA tests advertising on backboards" Vol. 10, Iss. 43, Pg.3
Anyone that has ever gone to a professional sports game knows that they will see corporate signage and advertising all over the field, stadium, or arena. It's become a modern fact about sports facilities that sponsors' signs are displayed prominently to achieve maximum effect on the fans. Some fans hate all the excessive advertising, some don't mind it, and some find certain signage innovative and fun.
I am betting that the NBA's latest in-arena signage will be thought of as very innovative. In constant search of areas to advertise on, the NBA has decided to test rear projection advertising on the glass backboards of the hoops themselves. This is a very creative use of signage, in my opinion. The basket is already the focal point of the game, so this makes it premium advertising space. Naturally I don't think you would want to display ads during the action, as this might distract the players while shooting at the hoops. But during pregame, halftime, and time outs this space could be made use of. If this idea tests out well in the NBA's D-League, I could see it becoming one of the premium areas of advertising in NBA arenas. This also makes me wonder if you could apply this rear projection technology in other professional leagues. The NHL, for instance, has alot of empty glass space that surrounds the ice surface. Perhaps rear projection ads behind the goals, or next to the benches?
Wednesday, March 05, 2008 3:06:00 PM
(Week 5)"Can NBA, NCAA take control of amateur hoops?" V-10, I-44,P.1,16.
The NBA and NCAA are coming together to try and take better control of amateur basketball. Some of the critisms of high school, prep school, and AAU basketball is it does not help prepare these kids better for the real world and it is to highly influenced by shoe companies, and lastly the fundamentals of the game are lost compared to our overseas competitors. AAU basketball has become an engrained culture in amateur basketball helping develop some of the worlds top NBA athletes. I do see a lot of problems with the system but I do not think they should be weeded out of the process just because the NCAA and NBA do not like how the business is run now. The AAU circuit has helped college recruiting and basketball along with NBA basketball for so long now that I think there should be some type of loyalty to the system.
I disagree with the NBA and NCAA because I think they are into controlling to many aspects of sports. I do not think they should have their hands in on developing the high school basketball circuit. If they want to I think they should be involved in trying to better coach the coaches of these programs by having instructional videos and free clinics in major cities. I believe that the AAU circuit and high school basketball provide the developing basketball player some of the most enjoyable moments of their youth and I do not think the NCAA and NBA should be reforming a process so they can be a more profitable business.
Thursday, March 06, 2008 3:13:00 PM
[Week 5] “Coke corners market in new Fenway space” V-10, I-44, P-4
This article talks about new seats that will be created in a new upper deck along the left field line in order to promote and display their long time sponsor Coca-Cola. The park is showing that they are able to generate millions of dollars from these seats without having to sell its naming rights.
This all started when the Red Sox and Coca-Cola signed an eight year extension to their contract in 2004 and just recently added an extension to this contract. This extension takes the partnership between Coca-Cola and the ballpark to 2017. There will be 400 new seats in the Coca-Cola section that will sell for $75 per game, or can be purchased in packages of 20. These seats are being built so that people will be able to visit the stadium in order to see the World Series champs, who play in one of the league’s smallest parks.
This is great for the stadium because they are not only able to add these 400 seats, but they are also adding 400 other seats in areas next to the Coca-Cola section that will raise their capacity up to 39,000. This is also great for Coca-Cola because the concessionaire’s will be pushing the product. To me, it has always been a great competition between Coca-Cola and Pepsi, and I think this is a great way for the Coca-Cola Company to show the Boston community that they are behind the baseball team and willing to invest in their franchise.
I understand that ballparks are always updating their stadium, taking things away from it and adding in new things, but to me, I think I would have kept the three Coke bottles that were a part of the stadium. It was stated that it was in the agreement to remove these bottles, but it does not state who wanted them removed. I would think that Coke would want them to remain in the stadium since it gives their company even more exposure, but maybe it was them who wanted them removed.
I feel that when big companies such as Coca-Cola join with sports teams as sponsors, it really helps not only that company but also the sports team. If you visit a stadium that is sponsored by companies that one enjoys, the fans will purchase more products and therefore help the franchise with their amount of revenue. When a franchise brings in more revenue, it helps to keep that franchise remain in that town and helps the city with their revenue. Having a sports team in a certain town, it only helps that town and companies near that town increase their revenue in order to make their town and company a better place.
Friday, March 07, 2008 11:57:00 AM
[Week 5] “Coke corners market in new Fenway space”
V-10, I-44, P-4
Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox, is trying to go back to the roots of the baseball and that starts with the experience you receive at the stadium. The Red Sox do not want to have their famous ballpark name(Fenway) to be replaced with a sponsorship name because of money they would receive from the naming rights so they have decided to find alternative ways. For example, they have had a long relationship with Coca-Cola and have just signed an additional 5 year contract with them that has coca-cola having their brand on 400 new upper deck seats near the Coca-Cola Corner and signage around the stadium. This contract will increase ticket value and increase the attendance at games for the park but also give more advertising for coca-cola. I think that it is a good match for both parties.
I think it is important to keep a good communication and relationship with your sponsors. Fenway Park wants to keep their ballpark “old school”, meaning how it was when it first was opened. Many people respect Fenway Park because it has done minimal changes to the originality of the park and fans want the feeling of old baseball. Coca-Cola is smart for keeping sponsorships with Fenway because the park attracts thousands of people already and if they keep there historic theme going they will attract even more people to the games. I respect the fact that Fenway park is trying to “keep it real” by not adding a tremendous amount of glamorous things to its park. Many people want the historical image of baseball and not all the fancy things that are developing now. It will be nice for fans and tourists to know that there is still one place that is trying to keep it real and simple but is still making money as well.
Sunday, March 09, 2008 7:00:00 PM
[Week 6] “Yankees to sell another $300M in bonds to finance ballpark” V-10, I-44, P-5
This article talks the Yankee franchise selling about $300 million in bonds in order to help finance their new stadium that will raise the overall price to about $1.3 billion. In 2006, the franchise had gained $968 million from sold bonds in order to fund this new ballpark. To me, this is a huge amount of money to use towards building a new stadium. However, at the same time, the Yankees are a very well liked team in the MLB and do spend lots of money on their players so that they can generate a winning record every season. Therefore, this amount of money for a new ballpark may not seem too high for them.
I can see where there would need to be an increase in costs from then till now due to the fact that just about everything else has gone up; however, $300 million is an extremely high number. In fact that is about a 30% increase. One thing that makes this number not seem as high is that bond investors see the increase in numbers in terms of revenues produced by stadiums like this. If it is costing more to build something, then everything that is sold in the stadium will also increase which will in turn increase what the investor gain in return.
It was stated in the article that the average ticket will cost $100, generating on a full capacity night, $5.3 million. To me, this is an astronomical amount of money that will be generated over one evening. At this rate, the stadium will pay for itself in no time. I think that it is great that the Yankees are seeking out investors to help pay for this stadium. This helps to get them involved and get their company name out there. It also cuts back on the amount of money that the state or individual town is responsible for coming up.
I do think that cities and states should be improving their ballparks and trying to generate more fans who will come to the stadium to watch a team play because this will then help the state and city out with their total amount of revenue generated. However, I think that they should also be reasonable in the amount they spend on these types of things. Sports are very important to society. I think it becomes tough for other sports franchises in that same state to compete with a ballpark or stadium when they spend so much on the construction itself.
Monday, March 10, 2008 9:12:00 AM
[Week 6] “Yankees to sell another $300M in bonds to finance ballpark” V-10, I-44, P-5
The article on the Yankees and their new stadiums was quite compelling. The Yankees are looking to generate revenue through municipal bonds. The Yankees estimate that their new stadium will cost $1.3 billion to construct. The Yankees are seeking to gain $300 million through the issuance of bonds. In 2006, the Yankees gained $968 million from the issuance of bonds for the new stadium, now they are looking to generate this $300million. The article states the average ticket price will be $100, and will generate over $5 million per night. The Yankees are looking for investors to help with the construction cost.
I believe that the Yankees are taking the right steps in securing financing for this new stadium. The cost of real estate in New York is exorbitant and the Steinbrenner Family is looking for investors to help with cost. I’m a firm believer that sports team should look to loyal fans as investors. Many of the fans are typically middle-class and upper middle-class and are investors. This very strategy has been successful with the Green Bay Packers whom are solvent due in part to their investors/fans. I believe that with stadium cost becoming exorbitant will see more professional teams looking to the public to secure financing.
Monday, March 10, 2008 10:43:00 PM
[Week 6] “Golf Channel series to focus mainly on Tiger”
V-10, I-44, P-7
Reality TV shows are what the public desires in entertainment nowadays. There are many reality shows in the business and almost all are successfully and keep the public wanting more. The Golf channel has picked up on this trend and has decided to develop an hour series called “360” that will take the viewers inside the reality of one golfer’s journey through a sponsored tournament. The series will pick one golfer each week and follow their movements through their golf game from start to finish. It will include additional media coverage, extra views of the golfers movements/action, and practices of the matches for the entirety of the tournament.
The Golf channel will pick a golfer each week and it just so happens that Tiger Woods is picked five out of the seven episodes of the series. The executives believe that this is who the people will want to see and learn about so why not give the people what the want. Tiger is the world of golf right now and people will watch him especially a series about his golf game.
I think that this will be interesting to see what the series actually can capture without having the approval of the golfers. I do think some people might be disappointed because they may want more personal information about Tiger and if they do not have the corporation from Tiger or the golfers it maybe challenging to keep the viewers interested. I do believe that it will give people an insight about how the tournaments are run and the amount of effort goes into each tournament for all parties.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008 12:38:00 PM
[Week 6] “Yankees to sell another $300M in bonds to finance ballpark” V-10, I-44, P-5
This article, on the Yankees and their new stadiums, was something that struck my interest due to the high amounts of money needed to build this new ballpark. The Yankees are hoping to generate revenue through bonds. The Yankees estimated last month that their new stadium will cost $1.3 billion to construct while planning to gain $300 million through the issuance of bonds. In 2006, the Yankees gained $968 million from the issuance of bonds for the constructions of their new stadium and they are now looking to generate this $300million.
The article states the average ticket price will be $100, and will generate over $5 million per night. This will have risen from earlier years of ticket prices being $47 per game. interestngly enough, the average ticket price for the MLB is almost $23. I personally think that this is an outrageous amout of money for a baseball fan to spend to watch a game. If this team is generating over $5 million dollars a game, this revenue will most likely be used to draft the best players in the league. And the Yankees will continue to manifest a stacked baseball team. Not the mention, some baseball teams cannot even produce $5 million dollars to their top player! I feel that major league baseball is still in the stone age compared to the other professional sport leagues because they continue to allow the Yankees and the Braves to flurish while other ballteams struggle to field a team capable of building a fan base large enough to sustain a successful season.
I think that it is very important for teams to continue to improve thier stadiums to bring in a more substantial fan base. These improvements can aid to the overall experience of "Americans favorite pasttime" however, it is very important increases in costs to be reasonable for the fans. these high ticket prices may ultimately hinder ticket sales since many individuals will not pay that amount to watch a baseball game...I know I wouldn't.
Monday, March 17, 2008 10:59:00 PM
"Fathead Gets Slim with Tradeables"
The licensing company, Fathead, is relasing 5 by 7 inch versions of their lifesize images. Fans can expect to see these in stores by August and will have a selection of around 250 players. A five pack of images cost about $13. Fathead hopes its tradeables will allow younger customers to purchase them. The company also looks to have their products on shelves in more retail stores such as Dick's Sporting Goods.
I think this is a smart investment by Fathead. Trading cards have lost their popularity and the market needs something new and unique like Tradeables. I loved trading and collecting sports cards as a kid but the appeal eventually faded away. The company is growing in popularity and this new item may push them to the top of sports merchandise.
Monday, March 17, 2008 11:54:00 PM
[Week 7] “Target interiors division guides Astros through ballpark revisions” V-10, I-45, P-15
The Houston Astros have made a very sound decision, eventhough they have spent a lot of money on rebranding the park. Baseball is a very fan friendly environment and ballparks are probably some of the best atmosphere's in all of sports. Baseball is such a relaxed game that the ballpark needs to be a friendly atmosphere that is not only great for viewing pleasure, but great for individuals to walk around and enjoy all the park has to offer. The signs and the look of the Astros will definitely encourage consumers to further invest in the team because they are investing in the fans. I like the idea that the team is modeling their uniforms to their park and color themes.
The Astros future plans also seem very interesting. The plans to replace their main scoreboard with a HD screen that is sure to impress the fans is a superb idea. Professional sports is great for viewing pleasure but its important the big screen monitor for replays, advertisements, and player introductions is adequate and even a little over the top for viewing pleasure. In 2000, the Astros had the biggest scoreboard in the majors, so I am sure the fans are used to the top of the line viewing pleasure. The Astros are committing themselves to the fan from a facilities standpoint, now lets see how good the team does.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008 1:13:00 PM
Week 6 - "NBA won't rewrite attendance record this year" Vol.10, Iss.45, Pg.10
The NBA had been enjoying four straight years of setting attendance records. But this year might show the first drop in average attendance in NBA arenas. There are four markets that are fueling this decline in attendance; those of New Orleans, Indiana, and Sacremento, and Seattle. All four franchises in this group are experiencing at least a 15% drop in average attendance.
A few of these situations do not suprise me much at all. The Indiana Pacers and Sacremento Kings are fielding poor teams on the court, and are not very competitive. It obvious that these teams won't make the NBA playoffs, and attendance is reflecting that sad fact. The situation is even worse in Seattle, where the ownership is all but threatening to move to team unless a new arena is built. But the inclusion of and New Orleans in this list suprises me a little. The New Orleans Hornets are one of the top teams in the loaded Western Conference this year, they have an exciting young superstar in point guard Chris Paul, and the All-Star Game was hosted there this year. With all this going for the city, you would think the fans of New Orleans would be coming out in droves to support their team. But apparently the city has still not fully recovered from the Hurricane Katrina disaster.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008 10:28:00 PM
[Week 7] “GM, Gatorade stay in the game and renew with MLB” V-10, I-46, P-3
This article talks about how General Motors and Gatorade have renewed their contracts with Major League Baseball as leading sponsors for the sport. Gatorade has been a major corporate sponsor of Major League Baseball since 1990 and General Motors has been a major corporate sponsor since 2005. Both of these corporations have not only renewed their sponsorship for this season, but they have also signed on as major sponsors for the next five years.
General Motors will not only sponsor Major League Baseball this season, but they will be a major sponsor of the MLB World Series, All Star Game MVP selections, the All Star game selections show and red carpet show as well as the Roberto Clemente award. In fact, GM will have many of their hybrid Chevy Tahoe’s available at the All Star Game this year in New York.
Gatorade will continue supplying their cups, towels, and coolers during the All Star Game this year as well as dugout branding. They will also be the sponsor for the All Star Game workout session during the All Star Game.
I think that this is something good for baseball. With all the steroid talk and testing that has been going on lately with major league baseball players, I think that for the MLB to continue to have the support and sponsorship from two major corporations is a step in the right direction. Gatorade and GM are showing the public that they still want to be part of something that has not been so positive in the media lately. With the support of these two large corporations, those who have doubted the MLB players may see that MLB is still just great American Baseball.
I think that by sponsoring the MLB, Gatorade and GM is not only helping baseball to restructure their reputation, but these two corporations will be able to get their products out into the public a lot more through their sponsorship of some major sporting events in baseball. This sponsorship may be costing these corporations millions of dollars, but by having their products available at baseball games and events, people will purchase them and therefore bring in revenue for the corporation.
Thursday, March 20, 2008 10:05:00 AM
[Week 7] “ATP to test placing name on court nets”
V-10, I-46, P-3
ATP, Association of Tennis Professionals wants to make a statement by being the first to puts its name on the nets across tennis courts. Many people have different reactions to this time of sponsorship branding. One issue is that the athletes would have a difficult time and that it would be a distraction to them during game play. Another concern is that tennis would become like all other sports and have logos everywhere making it muddled.
ATP wants to make a statement and if they can achieve the “go ahead” from the USTA, then the tennis marketing will change as we know it. ATP has already begun testing the sponsorship on the nets at tournaments to see the acceptance from players, fans, and sponsors. It was discovered that ATP is using this approach in trying to find a new corporate sponsorship and obviously get more money, there previous sponsor is Mercedes-Benz.
My opinion is “why not”, it is a different marketing approach and a bold one, if they are successful at this then ATP will be the first to do so and start a whole new marketing strategy for tennis. I can only see how this can benefit the game of tennis for more money and more advertising for the game. All sports are in competition with football and basketball especially in the United States and if this is achieved them maybe able to attract sponsorships that were never even considered before and bring more of an audience to the game.
Sunday, March 23, 2008 9:15:00 PM
Week 7 - "GM, Gatorade stay in the game and renew with MLB"
Vol. 10, Iss. 46, P. 3
This article discusses Major League Baseball's largest corporate sponsors, General Motors and Gatorade, and their contract renewals keeping them on board for the next few years. General Motors agreed to continue their sponorship for another three years and agreed to continue to sponsor the World Series MVP, All-Star Game MVp awards, Selection show, Red Carpet Show and Roberto Clement Award. On the other hand, Gatorade signed on for another 5 years (having been a sponsor since 1990), and will continte to make coolers, cups, etc. as well as sponsor the All-Star Workout day and Game.
I feel that having these two large sponsors renew their contracts shows the commitment they have to Major League Baseball and will hopefully allow the league to gain more exposure to individuals who purchase their products. On a side note, I'm actually very surprised that these two sponsors are the only two major companies dealing with the MBL. I would think for sure that major companies would jump all over the opportunity to sponsor sporting leagues, however, I wonder if the league has someother underlying issues as to why it only has two major sponsors. Nevertheless, General Motors and Gatorade are two powerful companies and are very capable of doing big things for the league.
Monday, March 24, 2008 2:53:00 PM
"MLS season begins with Dick's after title sponsorship deal"
Dicks has made an agreement with Soccer United Marketing... they are the official sponsor of hte first week of games. This adds to the meaning of Dick's slogan that "every season begins with Dick's"
The deal is estimated in the mid 7figure range to be the offiical sponsor of the MLS in 2008 and the US Soccer Federation.
I'm a little confused why Dick's is going after the MLS when it seems to still be unpopular in the USA, but it is much cheaper than to get a similar sponsorship in other sports. I personally cant see MLS merchandise a big seller, even in the regions that have an MLS team. Dick's truly believes the sport will evolve and grow... I disagree.
Monday, March 24, 2008 9:35:00 PM
Week 7 - "GM, Gatorade stay in the game and renew with MLB"
Vol. 10, Iss. 46, P. 3
This article comments on the renewal of the MLB's biggest corporate sponsor contracts, General Motor's and Gatorade. General Motor's has been a sponsor since 2005 and signed for another three years. GM will sponsor the World Series MVP along with many other big ticket events in baseball. In return, GM hopes to upsale Chevy vehicles, especially the new Hybid Chevy Tahoe.
Another big sponsor is Gatorade. This company has sponsored the MLB since 1990 and will continue for the next 5 years. They plan to provide teams with coolers, cups, towels and will be the title sponsor of the All-star Game.
I think that these two sponsors are key in the success of the MLB and the sponsors themselves. General Motors vehicles will be advertised at every game....the summer is the busiest month for vehicle purchases. Gatorade has now become a common household name so it is almost expected to be a big name sponsor of professional sports....especially baseball which is played during the hottest months of the year. John Brody, a sponsorship MLB chief stated that by these two companies renewing their contracts shows that major league baseball continues to be a strong leader in sports. I feel that this is true to a certian point however, major league baseball is really the only professional sport televised regularly from april to october. GM and gatorade products are also in more demand during these months as well. It only makes sense for these two sponosrs to renew their contracts with the MLB. I will not be surprised to see GM and Gatorade renew their contracts again once this recent one has expired.
Monday, March 24, 2008 11:23:00 PM
"ATP to test placing name on court nets" V-10, I-46, P-3
The ATP(Association of Tennis Professionals) is considering stretching its name across the court nets at all of its tournaments. This would be a risky move in the eyes of many because this could lead to a clash of brands. There also is concern about corporate clutter, with the ATP’s corporate sponsor logos already on the net posts and tournament sponsor names on the back walls. The ATP is in the midst of a rebranding effort, one of many that periodically sweep tennis, a global sport littered with disparate organizations and events.
I think that the ATP needs to explore every option. They have a rather small fan base and the popularity of the sport is steadily decreasing. I think that this method is worth a try. I don't think it is distracting to players and I think spectators will be more consciously aware of the ATP.
Monday, March 24, 2008 11:44:00 PM
[Week 8] “Pirates pack value, convenience into customized ticket plan” V-10, I-47, P-17
This article discusses one of Pennsylvania’s major league baseball franchises, the Pittsburgh Pirates. It talks about how the Pirates have not had a very good team throughout the last few years and how they talk about this being a rebuilding time for the team through the farm league and with the MLB draft.
This article also talks about how the Pirates have one of the nicest stadiums in the nation to play in and there are not that many fans that come to see them play. In order to get more fan interest in a ball club that is not doing so well, the organization has come up with a plan to attract fans. This plan is basically designed by the fan themselves. They choose eight different games that they want to be included in their package and then they will receive two games free that they can also choose from. In their package, the fan is able to select the seats that they wish to sit in for each of the ten games, the seats can be different for every game if they so desire. These games can even be special games where the franchise is offering a promotional night or fireworks.
I think that this is a great idea. People love when they can get package deals on various things. For sports fans, I think that they will fall over the idea of being able to have so many choices and they are free to pick from any games or any seats and nothing is limited. This gives the fans the opportunity to try out new seats and even the new “all you can eat seats.” I think that this is a great way to promote those seats as well.
I feel that the Pirates are moving in the right direction to rebuild not only their team through the farm league and the draft, but I also think that they are doing a good job trying to rebuild their fans and open the new stadium up to a variety of different people. I think that in the future, many other franchises will develop something similar to this. It may be harder for some of the franchises that already have good fan support and the seats are limited, but for those franchises that don’t have big numbers with attendance, they could definitely develop some sort of package along these lines and try to increase their attendance.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008 8:17:00 AM
Week 7 - "Flood of talent keeps salaries in check"
Vol.10, Iss.46, Pg. 20
It seems more and more lately that when a professional athlete retires from his sport, he begins his post athletic career work in television as a commentator or an analyst. I have watched former NFL personalities Tiki Barber and Bill Cowher go from the gridiron to the broadcast booth. It is the same with MLB, NBA, NHL, and even NASCAR luminaries.
With this movement of ex-athletes to television, I believe that will only make professional athletes think of media positions as a more viable career path once they are done playing. The thing is, you have to be somewhat of a personality to be successful as a TV commentator or analyst. This is why Charles Barkley is great as a commentator during NBA games on TNT; Charles always has either a strong opinion or a funny anecdote to express. I don’t think that every pro athlete to go work for networks has an interesting enough personality in today’s entertainment-driven society. Most would have enough knowledge about the sport for the job, but if they don’t have the interpersonal communication skills, high confidence, and a bit of a personality, I can’t see them succeeding in their new position in the long term.
Friday, March 28, 2008 6:56:00 PM
[Week 8] “Business gains traction in secondary market for PSLs”
V-10, I-47, P-3
This article is about the selling and buying of personal seat licenses (PSLs) and how difficult it can be to obtain them. Kyle Burks wanted to purchase PSLs for the Texans but found it to be almost unobtainable and decided to create his own way to obtain the PSLs by developing SeasonTicketRights.com for secondary market seat licenses.
He has some contracts with MLB and NFL teams where they have a link to the SeasonTicktsRights.com, and there is where Burk and buy and resale the licenses. Both Burk and the teams he is involved with have found this to be a revenue producing relationship. All parties involved end up happy, the fans get their licenses, the ball teams get their seats sold, and Burke gets revenue for doing the work. The website is growing and every year the revenue is increasing along with ticket resales. It is a service that provides fans with information about the seats such as prices and locations, and helps the fans find what they are looking for and how they can obtain it without “jumping through hoops”. I think that this was a smart business venture for Kyle and everyone involved gets want they want. I for see that in the future more teams if not all teams will want to work with Burk on this business to help the resale.
Saturday, March 29, 2008 4:34:00 PM
Taking Aim at Briston
Vol.10, Iss. 46, P.1
There has been a power point presentation circulating the last six months that has passed over the desks over prominent members of the sports advertising world. The memo makes special notes of all of the shortcomings and innefficiencys of the believed superpower of sports marketing. It is an attack that has those at Briston worried and those outside of Briston wondering...
ESPN is the modern voice of sports programming. It is to generation x what ABC's wide world of sports was to our parents. Over the last 25 years however the company has changed and tried to adapt and many viewing the changes now see that ESPN is not the best choice for advertising dollars.
It used to be that everything that ESPN touched turned golden. The article made special note of the ratings drop for Monday Night football and other such programming that ESPN took over form established networks. It is choices like this that have led to the production of the powerpoint.
The perspective I see on the ESPN situation is that it is like any other business when it comes time to adapt to change. ESPN made its changes on a vertical scale hoping to incorporate all aspects of the sporting industry into their repetoire. Now it wil take time to see if their ploy to stay on top by owning the game can become a fruitful proposition to advertisers.
Sunday, March 30, 2008 7:47:00 PM
"NBA teams searching for results"
v-10, I-47, P-4
Several NBA teams are using are using online search engines to in an attempt to boost ticket sales and limit seondary-ticketing competition. Web sites such as google, yahoo and MSN are selling individual game tickets. The teams tesing this strategie are the Cavaliers, SuperSonics, Bobcats, and Hawks. Customers clic on the ad and they are directed to a web page for the team. From the search enigine, fans can also can link to team shops. Teams pay the search engine for ad space and in return they are featured on the results page of a keyword search.
I think this is a great idea. In today's society there is a tremendous volume of online activity.I think it will still be tough to compete with secondary-ticketing sales because these usually have better prices. But I think the effort by NBA teams will see an increase in sales. I wouldnt be surprised if other teams and other leagues followed the path of these few NBA teams.
Sunday, March 30, 2008 11:33:00 PM
Week 8
v-10, I-47
"New Balance takes a run at younger demo"
This article is introducing a new goal for the fitness company "New Balance." they are now attempting to reach a new demographic: younger fitness runners and high school athletes. They developed a marketing tactic called "LOVE/hate.this is the new balance." The idea behind this is that young athletes have mixed emotions about running and overall fitness. I think that young athletes will definiately be able to relate to what New Balance is trying to promote, i personally have the same conflicting attitudes about exercise. Lately, New Balance, a great brand of athletic shoe, has been shadowed by Adidas, Asics, and Nike...especially in the youth population. Hopefully, this new ad campaign, which will be advertised on all the major networks, will promote a fitness lifestyle for high school kids who are not on any athletic teams.
Monday, March 31, 2008 9:13:00 PM
"Talen Pool"
Vol. 10, Iss. 46, P. 19
This article discussed the talented analysts the big sports stations bring in. Often times X-players and X-coaches make for the best analysis. Some of the guys who were great players in the 70's and 80's actually make more now as analysts than they did in their playing days.
I personally LOVE the cast on the NFL network. From Deion sanders wild style, Jaime Dukes innovative skits, marshal faulks incredible knowledge, Steve Mariucci's input as a long time coach, and Rich Eisen. Rich is a totally non-athletic guy and never played football... but he was there in the very beginning of the NFL network and has become a celebrity himself. The talent of the analysts on all sports network has greatly improved since the mid 90's! The information u can learn about the NFL from the NFL network is amazing.
Monday, March 31, 2008 9:19:00 PM
[Week 8] “Court filing: NFL carrying $9B of debt”
V-10, I-46, P-33
The NFL recently disclosed the collective debt of the leagues 32 teams. It was been estimated that the total debt for the 32 teams is approaching the $9billion mark. The document was release by the league’s outside general counsel, Greg Levy, in response to the union’s questions about reducing debt resolution. The NFLPA believes that the $9billion isn’t a concern because the league revenue for the 2006 season was $6.97billion. It is estimated that 25 percent of the debt is derived from stadium projects. The owners are making aggressive moves in anticipation of the owners opting of the CBA. In addition, the NFLPA has been preparing the players for a possible lockout for the 2011 season. The NFL wants to reduce debt to $1billion by 2010.
I found these figures to be quite baffling because the NFL generated tremendous revenue through broadcast rights, gate receipts, and merchandise and apparel. I understand that that the current NFL CBA is player-friendly and require owners to reward players with highly lucrative contracts. This makes it impossible for the owners to better market their teams with new stadiums. The player salaries are entirely too high at this pace. In addition, stadiums projects such as the Giants-Jets and Cowboys are at a very high cost. I believe that the owners should opt out of the current CBA to restore some semblance between owners and the NFLPA. With the current economic downturn owners and the NFLPA have to reduce debt to remain financially viable. As a fan I would hate to witness a lockout from the most popular game in the U.S.
Monday, March 31, 2008 9:59:00 PM
"Pirates pack value, convenience into customized ticket plan"
Vol. 10 Issue 47
This article discuss the Pittsburgh Pirates and their new plan to attract new fans and allow not only them but exhisting fans to customize their tickets for the upcoming season. This plan is through a new package deal called "What a Play-What a Park-What a Plan". Simply put, it is a promotional plan that allows fans to purchase 8 games and receive 2 free. Not only that--but then fan gets to choose what games that would like to attend. This includes any promotional games and where exactly the sets are located. The only thing that it excludes is opening day and the series against the New York Yankees.
Being from Pittsburgh and knowing how the team has struggled over the past years, I feel that this is a great idea and a fantastic way to attract fans to the park (which is breath taking) and allow them to enjoy their experience to the fullest potential. It adds to what the Pirates already offer as far as promotions (which include fireworks night and bobble head doll night) and gives the opportunity for individuals interested in different things the opportunity to customize the way they like.
Monday, March 31, 2008 10:16:00 PM
"Pirates pack value, convenience into customized ticket plan"
Vol. 10 Issue 47, p.17
When I saw the title to this article in my latest copy of the SBJ, I knew this was the article I would be writing about this week. You see, my family (and especially my mother) are all Pirates fans, and we try to go to as many games as we can in the summertime. We have many of the same feelings expressed by the author of this article. The 15 straight losing seasons for our Pirates is seen as a potential wet blanket to high attendance at Pirates games. But then you have the best ballpark and view in all of baseball, and alot of different and fun promotional nights. My mother is a big fan of the Fireworks Nights, so we are considering a Fireworks 8-Pack Plan. But I am also into some of the bobblehead promotions at PNC Park, so the Pick-a-Plan option will make it easy to satisfy both of us.
Now, I do realize that what the writer says is correct. You couldn't do this kind of ticketing strategy with most MLB teams, mainly because winning teams have a higher demand for tickets. This gimmick only works if you are struggling to fill your ballpark seats on most nights. Other franchises that could copy this ticket plan would be teams like the Kansas City Royals or the Tampa Bay Rays. It is also a great method to get fans in the ballpark to become knowledgeable about the young talent that the Pirates have on their roster.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:47:00 PM
[Week 9] “Macy’s parades MLB stars through promo” V-10, I-48, P-1
This article talks about a new promotion that the popular department store, Macy’s, is planning on doing for Father’s Day with some very popular Major League Baseball players. The MLB stars that participate in this promotion will appear on the cover of Macy’s Father’s Day guide that will begin to circulate within the next few months. These stars will also appear on local print ads, appear in the magazines GQ and Esquire, as well as pushing sportswear that are available at Macy’s.
Some of the MLB stars that will be appearing in these ads are; Manny Ramirez, Joe Torre, Tom Glavin, Dan Haren, Mariano Rivera, Albert Pujols, Dave Roberts, and about eight other managers or players. Along with the promotions on the Father’s Day guide and in the magazines, this promotion will carry over into a few baseball parks in which fans will receive coupons for the store. It will also carry over into a few Macy stores as well, where the customer is able to purchase, at a discount, an autographed baseball with the purchase of some other item.
I think that this is not only good for Macy stores but it is also good for these MLB stars. Macy stores will be able to market various sporting apparel with the help of these stars and hopefully bring in a different crowd to the store. This could not only increase their sales in the sporting apparel department, but it may also increase their sales in other departments as well. One of the big struggles of any type of business is getting the people to your store, or place of business. Then, once they are there, you can do different marketing schemes and different eye catchers to get those people to purchase more than one item.
I also think that this is good for the Major League Baseball players and managers because it allows the public to see them in something other than their baseball uniforms and it also allows the public to see that they are more than just a baseball player or manager. I think that it will let the public see that these multi-million dollar stars care about helping other people and they are not just about baseball.
I will be anxious to see this Father’s Day guide and how Macy’s portrays these athletes and managers. I would also be interested to see numbers on how well this promotion did for not only Macy’s but also the ballparks as well.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008 9:56:00 AM
(Week 8)- "Turner likes its position in NBA ad market"
v-10, I-47, p-4
Turner sports is happy with the increase in the viewing audience for the NBA during the regular season. I think Turner has made a great investment, the NBA western conference playoffs is going to be the best ever. In the history of the NBA there has never been this much talent one through eight in the west. This might be the first time ever a team will win 50 games and be excluded from the NBA playoffs. I think the first round matchups could almost be considered a western conference finals because there is only a 3 games in the loss column deciding if your team is in the one spot or the six spot.
Turner's theme to make forty games in forty night is great. This allows the fan to be able to see every game on T.V. and also get the maximum amount of viewing audience which helps to sell sponsorship. I think that the NCAA needs to look into getting all the tournament games on sister networks as does ESPN, TNT, and ABC do. They work together to get the maximum number of games on television and have extensive pre-game and post-game coverage. I love the way they have done their advertising for the game with the movie previews. I think this is better than any movie possible and I am excite to see the whole playoff picture West and East, but Turner has their hand on the pulse of basketball by having the Western confernce.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008 12:59:00 PM
[Week 9] “NHL will test virtual ads in playoffs”
V-10, I-48, P-1
This article is about how the National Hockey League(NHL) wants increase attention and revenue to the league. The NHL wants to increase the media and sponsorship attention that it is getting and try to create a broader fan base for hockey. They have several suggestions that would make this possible but also be a step that has never been taken before in the NHL. These suggestions have not been approved yet by the commissioner of the league or team owners but it is definitely something they will spend time thinking about.
The first idea is to advertise postseason logos on the ice during playoffs by have the logo of “Stanley Cup Playoffs 2008”. The next idea is to sale a virtual advertising plan that would have advertisements funning on the glass above the dasherboards. This is the glass that protects the spectators but will not affect the visual of the game or the media of the game. They got this idea from baseball league that has advertisement behind home plate during games.
I think that is type of advertising is becoming the norm in the sport industry. I agree with what Bob Wagner(Anaheim Duck’s chief marketing officer) that this is a win-win situation for everyone. Everyone is going to make out some how with this new advertising plan. There will be some people who do not like the idea but there are always people like that. With technology and the growing rate of professional sports, stadiums and arenas are going to need big sponsorships to find for them.
Monday, April 07, 2008 12:11:00 PM
"NHL aims to keep avid fans tuned in"
Vol. 10 Iss. 48 P. 26
As many avid hockey fans know, the quest for the Stanley Cup is about to be underway and the excitement is building to see who will take home the glory this year. Sadly, for the NHL as a whole, television ratings decline during this time of the season because most hockey fans discontine watching if their team does not make it to the playoffs or kicks the can shortly there in. This is where the brilliance of televison ads come into play. The NHL is preparing eight new ads with various slogans to keep avid fans interested throughout the journey to the Stanley Cup. With these ads, various corporate sponsors such as Pepsi, P&G's Gillette, and Dodge have created witty slogans and competetions to keep the hockey fans interested. Such slogans include "Bring Home the Stanley Cup" where fans can submit their own playoff rituals and the winner gets to have the Stanley Cup in their home for the day. Gillete I think has the best idea of them all. They plan to target those growing a payoff beard, which if you're a hockey fan, you know of this tradition all too well.
I think these promotional ads are a fantastic way to keep hockey fans interested in the playoffs reguardless if their team made it or not. I know we all want to see our team bring it home but half the fun is just seeing who comes out on top. The best thing about the ads I think is that it's allowing the fans to be involved more through the little competetions created by the sponsors. Not only does the thrill of seeing who will make it to the Stanley Cup keep people interested but the chance to win something probably has alot of people's attention and will keep them tuned in.
Monday, April 07, 2008 8:29:00 PM
Week 7 - Macy's parades MLB stars through promo
Volume 10, Iss. 48, P.1
Macy’s, the well known New York City department store plans to boost sales this summer with a Major League Baseball theme. Macy’s has gathered fifteen MLB stars and is pairing them with deals for a Father’s Day promo. Athletes in advertisements is not unusual, but it is a little out of character for sports stars to market a specific retailer and not just a brand name.
The major leaguers will appear on the cover of a multimillion circulation Father’s Day Guide, local print ads, and some magazines. Macy’s has also signed a number of club sponsorships to include Macy’s Nights at some ballparks where Macy’s coupons will be distributed. Macy’s has even gone as far as having some of the athletes make guest appearances in some of the stores to sign autographs.
Another aspect of this sports marketing includes the famous star as Macy’s logo paired with the baseball stars being used in this promotion.
In my opinion, Macy’s has some ingenious ideas that really haven’t been tried with other major retailers. As stated earlier, athletes are used time and again to promote specific brand names, but not necessarily a giant retailer carrying a variety of brands. The retailer’s star logo accompanied with baseball stars demonstrates an outstanding theme. This current Macy’s promotion has been well thought out to include not only advertisement, but also game night promotions, in store promotions and even involvement like father/son catch games.
Monday, April 07, 2008 9:06:00 PM
(Week 8)- "Pirate pack value, convenience into customized ticket plan"
v-10, I-47, p-17
The Pittsburgh Pirates marketing team has developed an innovative ticket customizing plan to increase stadium attendance. The Pirates have failed to reach the postseason for 15 consecutive seasons due to team rebuilding. To circumvent the dismal attendance records the Pirates are among the league leaders in promotional nights. This customized ticket plan allows fans to buy eight games and receive to free bonus games. In addition, fans will have the option to sample different seating sections. Because of the Pirates on-field record they have the excess ticket inventory to offer this plan.
I believe that this customized ticket plan is a strategic marketing plan. The plan should generate substantial fan interest for this upcoming season. Fans will have the opportunity to choose games on specific promotional nights. This plan will increase attendance because fans will have access to two free games. I believe that this plan is only a short-term solution to the Pirates on-field problems. The Pirates need to recruit a better team if they plan to increase fan interest for a long-term status.
Monday, April 07, 2008 9:22:00 PM
"Padres to open training academy" V-10, I-48, P-8
The San Diego Padres will soon open a baseball academy designed to meet the special needs of future Major Leaguers from the Dominican Republic. The complex will have 2 full sized fields, smaller practice spaces, a dormitory, weight room, and a classroom with computer lab. The facility will host the Padres rookie teamm and serve as the home base for Latin American operations.
I think this is an extremly smart move on behalf of the Padres. Since international players cannot be drafted, this is a great opportunity to recruit latin american players. I also like the idea of a classroom. Players can then work on their english as well as other subjects. Plus with dorms the players can attain much better living conditions then they are used to. Many latin americans don't have the opportunity for much education and the Padres are teaching baseball and more.
Monday, April 07, 2008 11:19:00 PM
Week 9 - "NHL will test virtual ads in playoffs"
Vol. 10, Iss.48, Pg.1,26
Taking a page from the NFL model, the NHL will test on-ice playoff logos and virtual ads during the upcoming playoff season. The league plans to use this to increase advertising and fan interest in the sport. This postseason will be a test period for the new strategy, and if all goes well, it could be a mainstay in future NHL playoffs.
The on-ice logos will say "Stanley Cup Playoffs 2008" and be positioned behind each blue line. Additionally, the NHL shield will be place behind each goal. The virtual ads will be superimposed on the glass surrounding the ice surface during games. As it is virtual, it will not be visible to any fans inside the arena, only to those watching the broadcast on TV. The same kind of technology is in the works for NBA backboards during game broadcasts.
Of all the four major sports, I believe hockey lends itself best for in-game advertising. The action is in a confined, intimate atmosphere, guaranteeing that your signage will be seen very closely. There are also a number of flat surfaces close to the playing surface that advertisements could be placed on. This only increase twofold when you place virtual ads on the glass above the rink walls. The space on these rink walls is already covered with sponsors' logos and advertisements. At least for this postseason, it appears the glass above will be host to such signage as well.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008 11:44:00 AM
"NFL salary cap to rise at least 6%"
The raise in the salary cap is definately going up due to the HUGE out of control contracts the top name players are getting.
Not only are the top players getting huge contracts, but average to just above average lineman are getting inflated contracts... leading to inflation of the top name players salaries.
Basically, within the past few years, about 2 players each year got contracts WAY over their skillset, blowing up the contracts across the league.
Then again, the NFL and the teams are making more money than ever, so I guess the players should be making more than ever.
The raiders are notorious for overpaying some players and hugely boosting players salaries that are better than them
Tuesday, April 08, 2008 9:45:00 PM
[Week 10] “Cavaliers sell main gate to Time Warner” V-10, I-49, P-4
This article deals a lot with the chapter in the book that we just presented to the class on signage and stadium naming rights. The Cleveland Cavaliers have just sold their main gate signage to Time Warner Cable. This corporation has purchased the main gates at the Quicken Loans Arena in order to become more aggressive in their sports sponsorship. This agreement is for seven years in which Time Warner Cable will pay $10 million dollars to have the main gates named after them.
There will be digital phone applications at this entrance along with a custom video, a scoreboard in another area of the arena, as well as other signs throughout. Time Warner Cable is hoping to promote their digital phone services and products and also their Internet and cable products and services. This major corporation will pay $1.2 million the first year of the agreement and each year will increase up to a total of $10 million.
It was ironic that we just presented the chapter in the book on this topic and when reading through this week’s SBJ were able to find an article related to this topic. I think that this article displays an answer to the question we asked about how naming rights could possibly change in the future. The basketball arena already has sold its naming right to Quicken Loans, but found a way to make more money by selling different parts of the arena to different companies. This is a great way for the franchise to make even more revenue rather than just depend on the sales of the products and tickets.
Partick Burke, the vice president of marketing and communications for Time Warner Cable stated that their “products and services are cutting edge for the sports industry.” I think that by having this corporation as a gate sponsor with all their technology it will help to make the Quicken Loans Arena a little more high tech, which is what everything is going to eventually turn into. Computers are everything in today’s society and so many people are using more and more machines to help them do their work. This just shows more Americans how important it is to know how to use these high tech machines. This signage definitely will help the Cavalier franchise and help Time Warner make the public more aware of their products.
Friday, April 11, 2008 10:04:00 AM
[Week 10] “NBA, NCAA team up for ‘historic deal’ ”
V-10, I-49, P-1
This article is about the participation in youth basketball programs throughout the United States and how the programs can be improved. So we have turned to the NBA and NCAA to help in this process with their support and direction. This was the first time in history that the NBA and NCAA actually sat down together to discuss anything let along youth basketball with each other. Although it was a slow process at first a five year deal was where the NBA and NCAA had to donate 15 million to help develop a program for girls and boys to receive proper high quality basketball training. Another 20 million is expected by both teams for marketing investment in order to promote these programs.
The first step in the deal will be to have a chief executive in order to hire staff members to help execute the goals for the programs. The goal is to provide the youth will the best possible basketball education that there is so in order for this to happen a Website is going to be organized in order to locate the best out there. The NBA and NCAA would like to have a youth basketball congress in order to help all youth programs in the U.S. By having the website they can offer coaching education and certification, training officials and begin working on standards for these programs.
I think that this is a start to something spectacular especially with the NCAA and NBA working together. I think once kids’ see that these organizations care about them then it will bring greater participation and success at of today’s youth. I only see benefits from these two organizations working together to provide maximum education about sports to the youth. I think it is a win-win situation for all parties involved.
Friday, April 11, 2008 12:18:00 PM
Week 9 - "MLS campaign aims to convert the believers"
Vol. 10, Iss.48, Pg.5
In an effort to redefine its brand, the MLS has adopted a new marketing campaign to target already existing MLS followers. The new tagline “Football. Futbol. Soccer.MLS” slogan is the leagues way of implying that it doesn’t matter what you call the game, we’ve got it, explained Kathy Carter, executive marketing director. The league plans to increase media exposure by an additional 15 percent from last season. Their promotions will begin online and continue with print, television, and online tune-in spots throughout the season. The league is no longer targeting the causal sports fan, but is targeting the 18-to-49 year’s olds whom are fans of the game. In addition, they are targeting the 12-to-17 years old that play soccer. The league will receive additional media support from partners, ESPN, Fox Soccer Channel, and Univision. Each of the media partners plan to incorporate the new campaign into its on-air promotions.
I believe that the MLS has made the right move in regard to revamping their marketing strategy. They have finally accepted the fact that soccer doesn’t have the same appeal in the United States that it has in Europe. MLS marketing executive have done everything possible to attract fans to their league with the acquisition of star players like, David Beckham. This new approach of targeting on the existing followers is huge because it’s going to have to be a grassroots effort to assimilate soccer into the minds of Americans. The MLS has a long way to go, but they are on the right path.
Monday, April 14, 2008 2:34:00 PM
[Week 10] - "Polo Ralph Lauren will outfit U.S. for Olympic ceremonies"
Vol. 10, Iss.49, Pg.4
The U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC) has announced that Polo Ralph Lauren will outfit the Olympic Team in the upcoming 2008 Beijing Games. The iconic brand will provide formal attire for the opening and closing ceremonies. The terms of agreement weren’t disclosed to the general public. Polo Ralph Lauren currently pays the USTA $2million a year for sponsorship of the U.S.Open and Wimbledon. The USOC decided to improve their international relations by adopting the formal attire worn by other countries. USOC opted out of their agreement with Roots, a Canadian apparel company, after their refusal to provide more formal attire. In addition, the USOC subsequently reached an agreement with Joseph Abboud as their apparel partner. Not long after, Polo Ralph Lauren executives approached the USOC to become the official apparel supplier.
I believe that the USOC made a wise decision for their partnership with Polo Ralph Lauren to become the official apparel supplier of the 2008 Beijing Games. Polo Ralph Lauren is synonymous with American culture and pride. Polo Ralph Lauren has been attempting to develop prominent sports sponsorship over the last several years. I feel that the marketing executives at Polo Ralph Lauren chose the right sponsorship agreement with the USOC. The Olympic is the world largest and longest sporting event. The visibility of the Games will help Polo Ralph Lauren increase their market share in formal attire. I believe that this partnership agreement will continue in future Olympic Games.
Monday, April 14, 2008 4:50:00 PM
[Week 10]- "XM marketing tour hitting the road with IndyCar Series" V-10, I-48, P-3
I believe that XM and the IndyCar series has made an excellent deal that brings good advertising to both inudstries. I think that XM has become a household name and a great addition that comes along with the purchase of a lot of cars. In XM's case they come included in a lot of Honda cars and Honda has cars in the IndyCar circuit and XM also covers all of the Indy car events on there radiocast. I think the deal goes hand in hand and has a great deal of relevance to both industries. It also says that they will use Danica Patrick's car as one of their feature cars. I think this is a great idea also because she is well known and might be able to advertise to a different crowd that might not be interested if it was just the guys within the sport.
I think that XM radio is doing a great job, anytime you get involved in sports I thik you broaden you advertising range. I like their ideas but I think that they need to get involved with more car companies to advertise their product as part of the car package. I think this is big in the industry because it changes the way people listen to radio and sports. I think this is a major break through and now they need to get involved in other major sports.
Monday, April 14, 2008 5:17:00 PM
Debt costs for new stadiums soar
Volume 10, Issue 48 pge. 4
The new stadium boom which is slowing but has yet to stop is running into some major roadblocks when it comes to finding a way to finance these stadiums. One of the most popular methods of financing stadiums has been the auction bond which allows investors to bid on different sections of the debt which can then be paid back by the organization.
This auction debt method is very risky as evidenced by the New England patriots and their sudden influx of debt. Also the Dallas Cowboys are running up costs of their new billion dollar stadium thanks to this new found type of financing. The unstable economy is making the cost of this auctioned debt rise for investors hoping to cash in on the benefits and these safe bets for stadium builders are suddenly not as stable.
This whole package of debt does not appeal to me as a citizen and fan. Eventually the cost of an owners mistake is going to trickle down to the public and especially to me as a fan. I hate to be the one paying for somebody else’s mistake. Much as it is with fancy, risky mortgages the dangers often outweigh the benefits of taking such loans. As a fan I would hope that my owner would be smart enough to not take such risks so that the fans never have to suffer.
Monday, April 14, 2008 5:40:00 PM
week 10
vol. 10; iss. 49; pg. 4
This article discusses Time Warner Cable's move into sports sponsorship. they are the new sponsors of the Quicken Loans Arena which is the home to the Cleveland Cavaliers as well as the Lake Erie Monsters (a minor league hockey franchise). Time Warner has exclusive naming rights to the facilities main entrance, custom video and digital phone applications in the entrance area, a scoreboard and other in-arena signs. This is a 7-year deal where in the first year, Time Warner will pay 1.2 million. This value will increase to 10 million over the duration of the contract. Time Warner has definiatly capitalized on its sponsorship capabilities considering that they have a 4.5 million dollar deal as the new title sponsor of the Walnut Creek Amphitheatre in Raleigh, NC; and is a founding partner of the Sprint Center in Kansas City.
Time Warner Cable is one of the largest cable companies in Ohio and by utilitizing sponsorship, they are able to increase their sales of cable, phone and internet substantially. On the flipside, the basketball arena already has sold its naming right to Quicken Loans, but found a way to make more money by selling different parts of the arena to different companies. This is a great way for the franchise to make even more revenue rather than just depend on the sales of the products and tickets. Overall, this sinage is a great way for Time Warner to make the public aware of their product, as well as, producing more revenue for Quicken Loan Arena.
Monday, April 14, 2008 7:00:00 PM
"NBA Playoff campaign leaving no on on the sidelines'
V-10, I-49, P-8
The NBA will be featuring 25 television ads to be shown during this year's playoffs and includes players from all 16 teams competing. The ads will run on ABC, ESPN, and TNT. There will also be print ads in Entertainment Weekly, the New Yorker, Newsweek, Time, and Rolling Stone. The NBA playoffs begin this Saturday. The first ad will feature Kevin Garnett of the Celtics and Lebron James of the Cavaliers.
I think this sounds really neat and I look forward to seeing the commercials. The NBA seems to be trying several new marketing techniques this year. A lot of marketing is centered around the young phenom, Lebron James. I think that he has drawn a many more fans than the NBA had previously seen. He has brought excitement and class back into basketball and is serving well as one of the NBA's main posterboys.
Monday, April 14, 2008 11:44:00 PM
"New Balance takes a run at younger demo"
New Balance is launching a worldwide marketing campaign to expand into the younger demographic. They currently have a stronghold on the hard-core running demographic and are looking to move into other markets.
Their new campaign is called "Love/Hate" marketing to the conflicting attitudes toward running. They are trying to maintain their loyal followers and pickup the college and highschool crowd.
Their advertising gameplan is to hit the NCAA basketball tournament, Xgames, Baseball, Lacrosse, and sports websites. CBS, FOX, ESPN, and SI will be broadcasting hte hate/love promotion.
I think this is a good attempt, but i think the stronghold of Nike, Reebok, and Adidas will be too much to make the campaign worthwile. Under Armour is also making headway in that market, but they have the appeal of Extreme and New Balance has the appeal of just running, and I believe the younger crowd is more interested in the extreme marketing.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008 2:20:00 PM
Week 9 - "NBA, NCAA team up for historic deal"
Vol.10, Iss.49, Pg.1,31
The NBA and the NCAA have recently signed a working agreement that plans to, among other things, reform and improve the state of youth basketball in the United States. The deal is reportedly worth $50 million dollars, and is set for five years. The two organizations have set five goals for this new partnership: 1)Educate athletes 2)Online community 3)Educating coaches 4)Developing officials 5)Events. This teaming up is historic because this is the first official working relationship between the NBA and the NCAA.
I believe this new partnership will be very beneficial to the game of basketball. As a youth basketball coach, I see the problems and challenges that the game faces every season. The two top basketball organizations in the country joining forces will make it easier to identify and address these problems. Just providing a better structure for communication and collaboration among the numerous basketball organizations out there is a great start. It will be exciting to see what will be accomplished by this partnership
Tuesday, April 15, 2008 9:07:00 PM
Volume 10
Issue 48
pge. 13
How to avoid rookie sponsor errors? Stay away from that star.
Opening day in major league baseball has come and gone. This article looked at 5 burning questions regarding sport business, How do I stand out from other ballparks?, What is the best way to create awareness of my sponsorship market?, How should I use the team's star player?, How will the team's record affect sponsorship?
The article had strong opinions on all of these questions. The article felt that sponsors logos should be present on all material. Team's should stay away from promoting themselves based on a player. Teams need to take advantage of all stadium space including the exterior. Also, teams need to be aware of the on field product for promotion.
I agree strongly with two points made in the article. Teams cannot concentrate only on players because performance can affect marketability of the entire franchise. Also, in order to be a marketbale product the team needs to have some measure of success. If you look at the most marketable baseball franchises (yankees and red sox) they are the teams with the best records historically. Performance effects marketablilty immensely.
Sunday, April 20, 2008 11:40:00 AM
"NBA, NCAA team up for historic deal"
Vol.10, Iss.49, Pg.31
The NBA and NCAA have signed a deal that plans to reform and improve the youth basketball programs in America. Over 5 years, the organizations plan to educate athletes, establish and online community, educate coaches on how to teach players, develop officials to instill values of sportsmanship in the game, and setup events across the US.
This is the first official conglomeration of the NBA and NCAA in a common goal.
I think this partnership, IF IMPLEMENTED CORRECTLY, will benefit the basketball community in youth sports and hopefully will funnel into future NBA players. The name branding of these forces behind it should help attract younger players to tuen into the website and events around the US. Hopefully the coaching education will benefit the players, as well as the coaches, to implement sound coaching and character building in the youth. Hopefully the process will be implemented professionally and with some demand and urgency.
Monday, April 21, 2008 10:30:00 PM
Week 10 - “In Line For Change” Vol. 10, Iss. 50, Pg. 1, 15-19, 23
The headline article for this SBJ issue deals with the state of food service in ballparks, arenas, and stadiums across the country. It looks at some of the problems that fans have experienced with third-party concession providers, the main problem being that of a long waiting period for your order to arrive. Some of the strategies that franchises have used to improve the wait time include enabling fans to place their orders via mobile phone for pickup or delivery later, personal kiosks where fans can order food at the touch of a button, improved concession operations with Six Sigma principles, and peripheral arena areas with less expensive menu options. These practices have all be successful to a degree, which shows that technology is advancing the concessions market at sporting events.
I think that anything teams and concession operators can do to decrease the amount of waiting time fans experience is a good thing. While eating and drinking the standard fare is tradition when you go to a game, you don’t want to spend a great deal of time standing in line waiting to order when you could be enjoying the game with your friends and family. There are two viewpoints among concessionaires that reflect the old vs. new argument. Some food providers are all about the new technologies that will decrease the waiting time for food, which is their main focus. But others contend that personal service is the key aspect that fans care about, and think that things like mobile phone orders and kiosks lack severely in this area. Sufficient stocking and staffing is also vital for success. I am split on this argument, because I know that while some fans just want to get their orders and go, others want to make sure their orders are accurate. Fans want a choice, so the best idea for franchises and food service companies might be just to provide them with as many choices as possible. Improved personal service, sufficient stocking and staffing, combined with new options for ordering like mobile orders and kiosks might be the best way to improve fans’ opinions of the concession experience.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008 12:37:00 PM
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