SEAT Global Magazine - Exclusive Interviews of Global Sport Executive Issue 01 January 2017 | Page 43

SEAT Monthly Series : The Phoenix Rising

A ticketing system was essential with the end goal being no additional service fees for purchasers.

“While SeatGeek was an attractive choice, since they are the provider for Major League Soccer (MLS), Ticketmaster had a proven history and resources,” said Michael McCoy vice president, sales & marketing for Phoenix Rising FC.

At the same time, staffing decisions were underway with five critical roles to fill: Director of Ticket Sales and Sponsorship Sales, three Account Managers and a Director of Box Office Operations.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) for the sales team was next on the list of priorities with a strong emphasis on CRM Best Practices. “With a solid plan in place, sales teams will be far more likely to achieve success in reaching potential customers,” said McCoy.

Ticket pricing was evaluated and established based on league averages in similar marketplaces and criteria such as population, soccer interest and financial demographics with regards to proximity to the stadium. Sponsorship packages were created within the eight standard categories for sports teams: Automotive, Heath Care, Banking, Insurance, Telcom/Technology, Real Estate, Soft Drink, Beer/Liquor and an exclusive package for stadium naming rights.

With its 11 new owners and the most successful coach of all time in the MLS, Phoenix Rising FC is sure to be a USL contender and soon to capture the attention of MLS expansion executives.

Stay tuned for more details next month on Phoenix Rising FC’s player selection, new sponsors and live game broadcast partner announcements!

In a short 90 days, the USL team, Phoenix Rising FC, is undoubtedly on its way to a hugely successful year.