Relationship With Bullfrogs Is A Winning Idea
A working relationship between the Green Bay Packers and the Green Bay Bullfrogs could be part of the proposed Titletown Development District.
GREEN BAY – Given the introduction to the Titletown Development District during the Packers shareholders meeting on Thursday, I figured it would be an apt time to chime in on the possibility of a partnership between the Packers and the Green Bay Bullfrogs.
Cameron Clark of WLUK-TV, the Fox affiliate in Green Bay, mentioned it an article yesterday, Tony Walter of the Green Bay Press-Gazette mentioned it before that, so there seems to be some legs behind this brainchild.
Having interned for the Madison Mallards, a member of the Northwoods League with the Bullfrogs, back during their inaugural 2001 season, I'd like to think I have some background and experience in the area.
Since I've been there, the Mallards have gone on to have the highest attendance in summer collegiate-league baseball as of last season, with even bigger audiences than the fabled Cape Cod League in Massachusetts.
For those that aren't familiar, these types of leagues are for the best college baseball players looking to develop their game, be accessible to professional scouts, and get used to – among other things – the influence of the wood bat all while retaining their amateur eligibility.
And as far as being successful business venture, these teams are only limited by the creativity of the sales and marketing staff. There's a minor league baseball atmosphere, fun for the whole family type-of-feel at an affordable price. Between-inning antics as well as imaginative promotions and giveaways are commonplace.
What can make them very lucrative is that they're not subject to the same overhead costs associated with major and minor league baseball, namely player salaries. These kids play for free.
Now, not all teams have been as successful as the Mallards down in the southern part of Wisconsin where an almost "perfect storm" occurs. The larger population, the more cosmopolitan city life, the college-town environment all play a factor.
But there's no reason the Bullfrogs couldn't be a success in Green Bay if a relationship is sprung with the Packers. With the clout of an NFL marketing department behind them, the Bullfrogs could see great success financially.
Imagine a new Bullfrogs stadium being the crown jewel of the new youth sports complex being discussed at yesterday's shareholders meeting. And when the Bullfrogs aren't using it, it can be the main ball diamond for whatever other youth baseball tournaments are scheduled.
Imagine promotions like player appearances, Aaron Rodgers signing autographs for a small fee that goes to charity. Imagine Packers-related giveaways like Title Towels or mini footballs that will help attract fans to the games.
And it would add to the entertainment value of the city. Fans coming to watch an afternoon minicamp practice in June or a training camp practice in August can also attend a Bullfrogs game at night.
All it takes is a highly motivated marketing staff to make it all happen.




Comments (2)
July 30, 2010 at 03:37 pm
Sounds like a great way to maximize value in that district.
July 30, 2010 at 09:58 pm
Hey, why not stop at the Hall of Fame and the Packers Pro Shop while we're there.
Definitely sounds like a winner for both sides.