Brett Favre endorses Wrangler, or Giannis Antetokounmpo supports a local business, sales turn to gold and that brand gets an immediate positive boost. How do you take that stellar outcome to the world of non-profit event or a charity event? There is an art form to getting the most mileage from a celebrity athlete when it comes to nonprofit fundraising. A quick photo opportunity and some good press from an event are not enough.
Because a successful athlete-nonprofit partnership requires time and a strong commitment, it's important to find an athlete who cares about your cause. It's always amazing to see an athlete support a cause because they've been personally affected by it.
Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Kenny Clark has been open about his experience growing up while his father served time. It's because of his personal connection that he does work with Angel Tree, a nonprofit helping children with incarcerated parents.
If the athlete has a personal connection, they are more likely to give 100% to make sure that your fundraising efforts are a success.
As a nonprofit, you will get more fundraising bang for your buck if you are working with a celebrity who can make a serious commitment to your organization. Sure, a one-time event or golf outing is great, but what you are really after is the athlete who is more concerned about the cause and less about their own personal publicity.
Recently, Super Bowl champion Gilbert Brown attended the 24th annual Buckets for Hunger event in Madison Wisconsin. Gilbert greeted fans, took several photos and was even the live auctioneer on a few very rare autographed Packer memorabilia items.
Raising funds for an incredible organization that helps the local food pantry is a great way to spend a Friday night
Gilbert Brown on attending Buckets for Hunger in Madison, WI
So much of the athlete-nonprofit partnership is finding just the right celebrity to work with. You need an athlete who has an organic connection to your brand. The athlete's image and brand have to work in conjunction with yours. It's not just about the star factor.
A recognizable name, whether it's a current player like Packers Aaron Jones or Hall of Famer like Packers Dave Robinson, can make a big difference for your nonprofit. But, it has to be a good fit, one where both the athlete and organization have shared values and images.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is the best in the business at negotiating athlete appearance fees for your nonprofit or foundation. We have a wide selection of athletes we work with across multiple leagues (NFL, MLB, NBA) and can help you find the perfect fit for a large ROI. Contact us today and come join our winning team!
Whether you’re looking for a current star like Davante Adams of the Green Bay Packers or a Hall of Famer with endorsement experience like Brett Favre, finding the right athlete for your product endorsement can do a lot, such as:
Of course, there are athletes that command top dollar when it comes to an endorsement deal. With the help of an experienced sports marketing agency, however, you can find an athlete to fit any budget.
If you're trying to find an athlete to endorse your product, you need to offer something they might want. Have a great product? Celebrity athletes are just like the rest of us -- they like free stuff, too. Sharing some swag with an athlete is a way of letting them try your product, which could lead to an endorsement. At the least, you may get a social media shoutout (think of it as an unofficial endorsement!)
Many athletes have favorite causes and will usually go out of their way to make appearances or fundraise for them. By aligning your company with a cause or two, you are not only enhancing the positive image of your brand, but you are also creating common ground for an athlete to endorse your product or service. For example, did you know that every athlete that signs an endorsement deal with New Balance gets money and merchandise for use with their charitable endeavors?
Also, consider the wisdom behind "minor stars are major draws". Many businesses want to have an endorsement, but don't have the budget for a major star. That's OK. Many athletes are looking to enhance their brand as well, so consider a beloved Hall of Famer such as Gilbert Brown or an up and comer such as Packers safety Darnell Savage.
When it comes to finding the right athlete for your product endorsement, the best thing you can do is talk to a sports marketing expert who can help you clearly define your business goals. You're looking for a celebrity athlete that not only appreciates your product but also ties in with your brand identity and your overall message.
Mayfield Sports Marketing can help. With our extensive network of industry contacts and the relationships we've formed with numerous athletes across different sports leagues, we have something to offer everyone. Use our online contact form to let us know what you're in the market for and Mark Mayfield will work his magic for your business.
Don't let opportunity pass you by! Contact Mayfield Sports Marketing today and let us help you find just the right celebrity athlete for your next product endorsement!
Every year, Kenny Clark just keeps getting better and better. In his fourth NFL season, as a 1st round pick out of UCLA, Clark has his sights set on a playoff berth for the Packers and a Pro Bowl selection outright for himself.
Currently, after four games, Clark is tied for third in tackles (17), third in sacks (1.5) with 7 sack yards, and tied for first with a forced fumble. After last season when he was named a Pro Bowl alternate, it is clear that Clark is improving his game and no less than his HOF quarterback is paying attention.
“I think one guy who is maybe the quietest, underrated star in this league is Kenny Clark. He does it all the time, but he doesn’t do it with the boisterous, crazy loud celebrations or animated press conferences. He just goes about it and does his business.”
Green Bay Packer QB Aaron Rodgers on Clark after win against Minnesota Vikings
Mike Pettine, the defensive coordinator for Green Bay, has given his defensive players more freedom to react to situations on the field as they develop, and Clark’s evolution in knowing when to take chances and when to play more conservatively is a major reason why the Packers are eyeing a contract extension past 2020.
If you’re a big fan of Kenny Clark, Mayfield Sports and the Green Bay Distillery would love to have you come out for “The Kenny Clark Show”, a live radio show broadcast from the Distillery on Wednesdays from 6-7 PM. Doors open at 4:30 and weekly prizes are handed out. For those who can’t make it in person, you can catch the show on Sports Radio 107.5 and 1400 The Fan.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is proud to work with Kenny Clark and other current and former Green Bay Packers. Kenny is available for corporate events, grand openings, as well as fundraisers and golf tournaments. His winning personality and commitment to the community are what make him so popular at every event we do together.
If you’re interested in having a star athlete at your next event, contact Mayfield Sports Marketing using our online contact form. Let us work with you to find just the right athlete for your business or nonprofit.
For sports fans, there is no greater thrill than being able to meet a celebrity athlete in person. Even better is getting an autograph and taking home proof that you have spent time in the presence of a sports hero. When your business associates with current athletes like Alvin Kamara and Melvin Gordon or a former superstar like Brett Favre, customers take notice!
If you are a business or nonprofit, autograph sessions can take your event to the next level. They are guaranteed to increase turnout and attention to your business. For foundations and nonprofits, having an auction of autographed items is a surefire way to bump up interest and raise considerable funds.
The most important decision you will make is to decide what athlete you want to have. You don’t have to try and book an athlete yourself. An established sports marketing agency will have connections to connect and hopefully book the athlete you want. They can also discuss with you what you hope to accomplish at your event and provide choices you might not have thought of.
For a foundation or nonprofit, keep in mind that athletes often have a favorite charity or cause they want to promote. You will have more success in booking an athlete if your organization promotes a cause that is near and dear to the athlete’s heart.
While everyone seems to want a current star athlete, there are other options. Often, former athletes, especially Hall of Famers like Jerry Kramer or Paul Molitor, are big draws. Another general rule of thumb is “even minor stars are major draws”. Minor league players, team broadcasters, coaches, and athletes who were stars in college can all increase turnout and provide significant positive exposure for your business. Keep your options open!
Have a wide variety of things available to be signed. Also, make sure to get some extra signatures for people to purchase later if they can’t make it to the event.
Finally, promote, promote, promote! It’s not just advertising the event beforehand. It’s also vital to promote afterward through social media postings and other advertisements. A celebrity athlete provides star power and credibility to your business. Take advantage of that and create interest in when your next event will be taking place!
There is so much upside to an autograph session for your business. A well-run autograph session can really take your event to the next level. If you’re interested in setting one up, contact Mayfield Sports Marketing using our convenient online contact form. We have extensive connections with current and former athletes in many sports and would love to see your business or nonprofit gain exposure and brand awareness.
Be a part of a winning team! Contact Mayfield Sports Marketing today.
As the 3-1 Green Bay Packers prepare for this weekend’s key matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, one of the key questions on everyone’s mind is the playing status of two-time Pro Bowler and star wide receiver Davante Adams.
In last Thursday’s game, Adams posted a career-high 180 receiving yards but suffered a turf toe injury that sidelined him for the fourth quarter. According to reports from ESPN, he is unlikely to play this Sunday.
However, Ian Rapoport from NFL Network has reported that Adams has undergone an MRI scan and the injury is “not believed to be serious”. With nine days between games, hope springs eternal among Packer Nation that Adams might see some playing time.
“...he's a freak athlete. He's a hard worker and just his releases in general. He can probably do the same thing with one leg so don't be surprised if you see him out there Sunday.”
Packer Allen Lazard on Adam's recovery from a turf toe injury
Mayfield Sports Marketing is proud to partner with Davante Adams and we wish him a speedy recovery. He’s a big part of the Packer’s success this season and we count ourselves fortunate to work with an athlete of his caliber to bring high profile to success to businesses and nonprofits.
If you’re interested in partnering with a current or former Green Bay Packer for an upcoming corporate event, grand opening, non-profit fundraiser, or speaking engagement, Mayfield Sports Marketing is the sports marketing firm you should have on speed dial. We work with a star-studded roster of players, including current Pro Bowlers like Davante Adams, to make sure your event is a success.
Simply use our online contact form to let Mark Mayfield and his staff know what you’re looking for. Then, watch the magic as they find the perfect celebrity athlete for your event. Mark prides himself on finding and hiring the best football speaker for your event. So, come and join the winning team at Mayfield Sports Marketing.
Davante, we’re rooting for you. Here’s to a speedy recovery and a return to your winning ways!
Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon is returning to the Chargers Thursday, September, 26. As one of the best running backs in the NFL today, Gordon is sure to quickly get back into playing mode and resume making life difficult for teams in the AFC WEST
During the 2018 season, Gordon achieved a career-high 5.1 yards per carry and scored 14 touchdowns while accumulating 885 total rushing yards. The Bolts finished with an impressive 12-4 record, beating Baltimore in the wild card playoff round before losing to the eventual Super Bowl champion Patriots. Gordon has made a significant difference to the Chargers offense since being drafted in 2015.
In each of the last three seasons, Melvin Gordon has led the Los Angeles Chargers in rushing averaging 996 rushing yards and 9.3 rushing touchdowns per season. The NFL has noticed, making Gordon a two-time Pro Bowl player.
A native son of Wisconsin, Melvin Gordon thrilled crowds at Camp Randall Stadium as he led the Badgers to two Big 10 championships. The 2014 season marked Gordon as the best running back in the nation as he won the Doak Walker award as well as a second-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting. He was selected by the San Diego Chargers with the 15th overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is proud to be Melvin’s Exclusive Memorabilia Company along with Radtke Sports. If your company seeks an athlete appearance, endorsement or motivational speaking for an athlete like Melvin Gordon, we’ve got you covered with an extensive selection of athletes, both current and former, who can add pizazz and excitement to any occasion.
Contact Mayfield Sports Marketing today and be a part of the winning team! 262.366.8188
The Gilbert Brown tailgate party returned to Stadium View Sports Bar and Banquet Hall yesterday with Super Bowl Champion Eugene Robinson and Green Bay Packer Hall of Famer Ahman Green to get the fans ready for the Packer’s game against the Denver Broncos. Rain may have moved the party inside but didn’t keep the fans away from the fun with hundreds of Packer, and even a few Bronco fans stopping by to say “Hi” while grabbing an autograph and selfie of their favorite players.
Coming to Green Bay from Seattle in 1995, Robinson recorded 55 tackles and led the Packers with eight interceptions as the team went on to become Super Bowl XXXI Champions, beating the New England Patriots, Robinson’s hometown team, 35-21. In 1999 Robinson was awarded the Bart Starr Award, presented to an NFL player exemplifying outstanding leadership and character in the community, on the field, and in the home.
The Packer’s all-time leading rusher, Ahman Green played 8 of his 12 NFL seasons with the Green Bay Packers before retiring as one in 2009. During his tenure with Green Bay, he made four trips to the Pro Bowl (2001-2004) and was the NFC Offensive Player of the Year (2003). Green was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Football Hall of Fame on July 19, 2014.
Few establishments as large as Stadium View have remained in a single family for as long as they have, entering their 27th Packer season as the favorite local “Mom & Pop” sports bar to meet up with friends and catch the game. Mayfield Sports Marketing and Gilbert Brown were honored when second-generation owners Bob and Amanda Watson approached them about teaming up to host the Exclusive Gilbert “The Gravedigger” Brown Tailgate Party before each Packer home game. With a full staff that is second to none when it comes to cold drinks, delicious food, and fun there is no better place to start the game day experience than at Stadium View Sports Bar and Banquet Hall.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is a leading speakers bureau and sports marketing agency helping large and small companies book celebrity athletes for speaking events, athlete appearances, and autograph sessions. Interested in bringing Gilbert Brown, Eugene Robinson, Ahman Green, or another celebrity athlete to your next event? Contact The Mayfield Sports Marketing team at 262-366-8188 or by completing our online form requesting a quote.
Even though 2019 will only be his second year wearing the iconic Packers green and gold, Jaire Alexander has made a name for himself as one of the up and coming cornerbacks in the league. The Packers coaching staff is ready for a breakout year from this young defensive standout.
"He loves football. Passionately. He’s one of our more vocal guys in the meetings and out on the practice field and on game day. And a lot of that has to do with his confidence. I just think the success that he’s had is only making him more and more confident. But he came in here very confident, and corners have to have that. They can’t have one play affect them."
Packers defensive coordinator Mike Pettine
It was a historic season for Jaire Alexander. Since 1974, only two Packer cornerbacks have been named to the All-Rookie team. The first was current LA Charger Casey Hayward in 2012. The second was Jaire Alexander in 2018.
You wouldn’t think a 5-foot 10-inch cornerback could have a major impact. But, with blazing speed and an aggressive style of play, the Packers coaching staff were impressed enough to put Alexander up against the best receivers in the game today.
With only two penalties committed on the season, Alexander finished second on the team in tackles per snap and finished first among the defensive backs in passes defended per snap.
Alexander says his goal is to make the Pro Bowl this season. Provided he stays healthy, this is a realistic goal for the 2019 season.
In Green Bay and football-crazy Wisconsin, people love meeting up and coming football players like Jaire Alexander. You can bring that excitement to your next business or non-profit event by contacting Mayfield Sports, the leading sports marketing contact in the state. MSM is proud to work with Roc Nation with players like Jaire Alexander.
We work with a wide variety of current and former star athletes to increase traffic to your business and improve your brand identity. Use our online contact form to get a quote for your event. Join the Mayfield Sports Marketing team and see how a star like Jaire Alexander can help your business!
One of the most scrutinized positions for the Green Bay Packers going into the 2019 season will be the running back spot, and Aaron Jones is prepared to dazzle the Cheeseheads with the explosive playmaking that marked his 2018 campaign.
Heading into his third year, it is a fairly safe bet that if Jones can avoid some of the injury issues that have come up his first two seasons, he is due to stand tall as one of the best running backs in the NFL this season.
Jones had a breakthrough year last season. After missing three games in 2017 thanks to a knee injury and missing two preseason games in 2018 with a hamstring injury, there were concerns that perhaps Jones was not able to handle the rigors of an NFL season.
Those concerns got completely brushed aside as Jones proved to be a weapon for the Green Bay offense. In the running game, Jones rushed for 728 yards (a team high) and scored 8 touchdowns. In the passing game, Jones caught 26 passes and scored a receiving touchdown.
The expectation amongst fans and coaching staff alike is that this is the season that Jones takes his place among the elite running backs in the NFL.
With new coach Matt LaFleur taking the reins at Lambeau Field, there will be a stronger emphasis on the running game. In previous stops in Los Angeles and Tennessee, LaFleur has proven he likes a balanced offense with a strong running game. This means a more intense workload for Aaron Jones.
In response to the challenge from the new coaching staff, Jones has spent the offseason working on his lower body strength and dropping his body fat percentage from 11% to 5.3% in the offseason. With a weapon like Jones in the arsenal, don’t be surprised to see the Packers offense rank in the Top 10 in rushing yardage this season.
Mayfield Sports is proud to work with Aaron Jones to provide endorsement and appearance opportunities in Wisconsin. Athletes like Aaron help promote a positive brand identity and can turn an ordinary event into a memorable one with a higher ROI. If you’d like to partner with the Mayfield Sports team to help your business, contact us today using our online form.
After a successful opening at Diamond Jo Casino in Northwood, IA, FanDuel once again reached out to Mayfield Sports Marketing for the debut of sports betting in Dubuque, IA on Wednesday, September 4, 2019.
Green Bay Packer alumni Antonio Freeman was on hand at Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque for the grand opening, greeting fans and celebrating the iconic step.
"I think it's amazing, I think it's great for the community and for sports betting. It gives you a convenient place to go and it's comfortable in here and I think sports betters will enjoy the new addition to Diamond Jo."
Antonio Freeman to KCRQ Your 24 Hour News
Hundreds came to welcome fan-favorite Antonio Freeman to Dubuque’s Diamond Jo Casino for the grand opening. Banking on the luck his number 86 jersey brought him during his football career, the former Packer wide receiver placed an $86 ceremonial first bet that the Green Bay Packers score more than 21.5 points in their game against the Chicago Bears.
In addition to the initial $45,000 licensing fee, Iowa casinos will pay a $10,000 annual renewal fee with Iowa taxing revenues at 6.75% in order to offer sports betting.
A popular fantasy sports provider, FanDuel moved into sports betting following the recent Supreme Court ruling opening initial locations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey with locations in Iowa and Indiana quickly following.
Looking to bring Antonio Freeman or another celebrity athlete to your next event? Contact Mayfield Sports Marketing via our online form or by phone at 262-366-8188. From store grand openings, meet and greets, autograph sessions, motivational speaking, product endorsements and more the team at Mayfield Sports will connect you with the perfect current or retired player for your event.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-Gambler.
