What’s in Your Wallet?

Submitted by Mitch Seigel on Fri, 12/30/2011

As we head into the home stretch of the year, we also head into the home stretch of the college bowl season. I’ve checked out a few of the games and it amazes me to see just how few people are in the stands. Thirty five games this year, and probably about twenty five are all about sports marketing...

Millions of dollars are being given by the networks to the conferences and colleges, in exchange for the opportunity to program the games, and in return receive millions of dollars in return from advertisers. Sports marketing is bigger than ever and growing.

During the games, in-the-stadium exposure is not as much a concern compared to the many ways a network can slice up a broadcast and make it attractive to sponsors. Pre- game, in-game, half time, post game, roster lineups, coin flips, score boards, replay cameras, etc. are all sponsored.

It started with traditional sports and in-stadium signage, and has transcended to other options due to increased broadcast coverage to sports like tennis, golf, lacrosse, and more. The world is enthralled by sports, and naturally so are the broadcast companies, who can take advantage of the opportunity for increased revenue streams.

Sports marketing starts at the world-wide stage and goes right down to the Little League, Pop Warner and AYSO games down the street. As long as there are fans, there is reason to market your products or services through sports. The same target ability exists through sports marketing, so taking time to make sure you are putting your message in the right place at the right time is essential.

What are your challenges when it comes to sports marketing? I look forward to hearing your comments. Until next time …