Athlete Marketing Can Be Maddening

It seems like the dream jobs of marketing would be easy.
While these roles are exciting, they’re still challenging.

The appeal is that you work with the highest profile athletes & moments in the world. The double edged sword is that you’re working on the highest visibility moments in the world.
The Euros & COPA America reminded me of the beauty of a cohesive brand campaign…and the most maddening part of that orchestration.
For a deeper dive, check out my new YouTube video this week. ⬆️

When athletes wear the lead colorways and the newest innnovation, it’s pure elation for the brand team.

But a fundamental fracture exists between the goals of athletes and the goals of footwear companies.
You see this on full display when shoes like the Kobe 5, released in 2009- FIFTEEN YEARS AGO- are the favorite of many top pros.

There are no easy answers, but models like the Kobe PROTRO are a great step in the right direction. It’s a “retro performance” shoe with the classic look but the tech of a new shoe.

As marketers in the sports industry, we should try and remain true to the greater mission of serving athletes and the people who love our product while pushing the boundaries forward.

If you want to learn the difference in BRAND Marketing Teams & SPORTS Marketing teams at companies like Nike, Adidas, Puma, New Balance & more.

Watch the new video, Like & Subscribe if you enjoy it…
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Education & Resources:
Last week’s Brand Brother started off with lots of career advice for aspiring marketers and creatives, then we covered Gucci, On X Zendaya, Paris Olympics and more…

Every Friday at 9a PST/Noon EST, the Brand Brothers AKA Oren, Ashwinn, Bimma (3 of the smartest gentlemen in this space) and Myself will go LIVE to discuss the latest in Marketing & Branding. You can tune in through YouTube on my channel, LinkedIn or on Twitter Spaces.

If you want to grow your career or personal brand to maximize your impact, check out my Branding + Blessings workshop.

Blessings:
Bless YOU.
I left the corporate world and a really safe and comfortable job just over 2 years ago.
It’s been SO HARD, but SO life giving.
Without the support and engagement from all of you, I wouldn’t be able to do this.
Thank you & Bless You.
🙏🏼