MAC Meeting Recap

Yesterday we had the privilege of joining the great marketing minds that make up the MAC (Mid American Conference) in downtown Cleveland at the 2nd Annual MAC Marketing Meeting. Marketing directors, media rights holders and sports information folks from all the MAC schools were on hand to share and collaborate overall best practices.

It was such a great experience to see how other schools handle their programs and learn about some exciting things other schools are doing to market their sports. Social media was a big topic of discussion, as advertising and marketing budgets are being cut across the board. It was great to weigh in and share what we're doing at EMU Athletics and the progress we're making in continuation to lead the digital marketing movement. Every school has unique challenges, but engaging fans is a top priority for everyone. We're anxious to get started on our campaign and strategy for the upcoming seasons including some creative rewards and incentives.

From the media rights holders perspective, we learned a lot about how other schools integrate their corporate partner program into athletics, best practices and overcoming obstacles and hurdles. Community focus was a main priority and figuring out unique ways in which schools build community outreach through their corporate partners. We also gained insight at how basic contracts are written and executed from the front and backend. Utilizing our media rights (stadium signage, marketing materials, etc...) is going to be a big potential for us to help stop the bleeding budget and maximize on all opportunities.

It's going to be an exciting Summer networking and developing relationships with the likes from Toledo, Kent State and other schools. It's a nice fraternity to be a part of and we're really looking forward to seeing what happens come the Fall.