Maryland Office of Sports Marketing

Check out the site: http://www.marylandsports.us/

The 2007 transition report to incoming Governor Martin O’Malley recommended Maryland revitalize its sports marketing and sales efforts to increase the quantity of regional, national and international sports events (amateur and professional) held in Maryland.

In November 2007, the Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) partnered with the Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) to develop a marketing strategy to attract, return and/or increase regional, national and international sports events to the state.

The Maryland State Legislature supported this initiative and approved:
...that the [MSA] be allowed to expend up to $150,000 in non-budgeted funds to prepare a report examining how sports facilities around the State of Maryland can be better utilized to attract events to the State, in conjunction with the [DBED]. The report shall include a complete inventory of all venues in the State of Maryland, which includes venues currently and able to host high school, collegiate, professional, semi-professional and amateur events. The report should also include a list of events currently held at any of the venues in Maryland. The report will present a preliminary strategic plan for sports marketing statewide that will include participation of the business community, colleges and universities, and other sports organizations. To assist in the preparation, the MSA may hire contractual employees.

In July 2008, a public-private panel selected Terry Hasseltine, formerly of the Kentucky Sports Authority and Greater Louisville Sports Commission, to serve as the inaugural Director of Sports Marketing. In six months, Hasseltine inventoried the state’s sports venues, compiled, identified events which Maryland could host, and developed a preliminary strategic plan.

In May, 2009, the Maryland Office of Sports Marketing officially launched this website which includes an interactive directory of sports and recreation facilities throughout the state, and a calendar of events to help promote the states attractions and activities.

Mission Statement
The mission of the Maryland Office of Sports Marketing is to enhance Maryland's economy, image, and quality of life through the attraction, promotion, retention and development of regional, national, and international sporting events and activities.

Vision
The state of Maryland enjoys a wealth of sports and recreation facilities, providing enjoyment and entertainment to its citizens. By attracting additional events, developing new initiatives, and promoting Maryland attractions through multi media coverage, the Sports Marketing Office creates opportunities to bolster the visitor industry and increase revenue throughout the state

The Office of Sports Marketing coordinates a public-private network of partners by forging alliances, leveraging resources, and assisting facilities, events and organizations succeed in Maryland.

The Office of Sports Marketing encourages development of amateur athletics and youth sports to increase opportunities for Maryland's youngsters and elevate appreciation for Maryland’s sports and recreation assets as a destination for family travel,

The Office of Sports Marketing is a catalyst, compounding the economic impact of Maryland's sports community and visitor industry while providing additional athletic opportunities for all who live, work and visit here.