With a network of more than 1,400 alumni, the Ohio Sports Administration network possesses an expansive understanding of the sports industry. We here at sportsad.ohio.edu have a feature series for marketing (Marketing Monday) and facilities operations (Facilities Friday). We like alliteration, and we also like sharing information.
Today, we unveil a new series on community relations. For the first post, Eric Shainock '14 will focus on best practices and will highlight feel-good stories from throughout the industry.
Take it away, Eric...
Here it goes- my first post about #CRSports, otherwise known as Community Relations Sports. This idea grew out of a desire to share a holistic viewpoint the impact sports has on children, adults, fans, organizations, and communities. This encompasses team and player foundations, as well as community outreach and relations- it's the work done outside of the competition to positively impact the world.
I believe that sports/athletics have the power to transcend generations and impact those who connect through a sport platform. #CRSports creates a ripple effect- essentially, teams are able to break down barriers and humanize themselves to the most important person: the fan. No longer is a team just the Green Bay Packers; but rather, it is Jordy Nelson, Aaron Rodgers, Mason Crosby, Coach McCarthy who come together to create a group that is the Green Bay Packers...you may see quite a few examples of Wisconsin teams! Thus, fans are able to create relationships with coaches, players, student-athletes, and personnel members to forge an unforgettable bond that extends off the field or court.
The first story I want to share is one that captivated the country and was broadcasted live from San Francisco: Miles Scott aka Batkid. Miles is a 5-year-old kid who is a cancer survivor who wished he could be Batkid for a day. It was one of the most elaborate projects that Make-A-Wish has ever staged: Thousands of volunteers in the Bay area, including the San Francisco Giants, took part in this day. Miles started the day by picking up his Batkid costume and receiving his wheels for the day (his batmobile). His day consisted of rescuing a damsel in distress, stopping the Riddler from robbing a bank vault, and rescuing Giants mascot Lou Seal from the clutches of arch-enemy Penguin from within the confines of AT&T Park. Thousands of community members turned out for the event cheering on Batkid as it spread rapidly with the help of social media and the hashtag #SFBatkid. The story came full circle as Miles threw out the first pitch at the 2014 home opener for the San Francisco Giants.
This is just a small example of the impact sports can have on a community. Although it was an indirect one, the Giants were successful in positively impacting the community and helping to create a once in a lifetime memory for Miles Scott.
Please feel free to give suggestions on how Eric can improve his posts and any future topics that would be of interest!
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