The search for a ballpark naming rights partner is on for the Kansas City T-Bones (independent; American Association), as the team will seek a new agreement for CommunityAmerica Ballpark. The club’s agreement with CommunityAmerica Credit Union has expired.
CommunityAmerica has supported the T-Bones as naming rights sponsor since the team inception in 2002, introducing minor league baseball to the Kansas City community. “We are proud and appreciative of our long relationship with CommunityAmerica,” said T-Bones president Adam Ehlert. “Our product has been well-received in the marketplace, and I am glad that our nearly four-million fans have contributed to the credit union’s tremendous growth over a decade and a half.”
CommunityAmerica’s leadership also acknowledges the T-Bones’ role in their growth. “Our partnership with the T-Bones has been a highlight for our organization. We enjoyed countless employee and member experiences at the ballpark, which created opportunities for us to grow our presence in the greater Kansas City communities,” said Rick Schier, Chief Member Officer of CommunityAmerica, “CommunityAmerica Ballpark will forever be in our hearts, and I encourage other local companies to consider how a partnership with the T-Bones can support their business goals,” Schier said.
“We’ve been talking to some very interested parties, but want to make sure no stone is unturned,” said Scott Steckly, T-Bones’ Vice President of Corporate Sponsorship and Sales.
Minor league baseball, and especially the T-Bones, can offer a myriad of creative advertising options with the experience to drive marketing in the metro area. The naming rights sponsor will have category-exclusive ballpark signage providing the stand out name recognition that can lead to brand and product growth.
“This opportunity is perfect for a traditional company looking for branding substantiation, or a heretofore-unknown company looking to make a significant splash through consumer and marketing channels that are not often available,” added Steckly.