Whether you are a current or former member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast Guard, November is our country's time to thank you for your service. The NFL also salutes our nation's military members during November as well with on-field displays and sideline gear specially made for the coaching staff of all teams.
Mayfield Sports Marketing’s owner and president Mark Mayfield takes his commitment to veterans seriously in part to his family’s strong military background, his grandfather, Clyde Mayfield, serving in the Army during WWII, his Uncle Mark completing two tours in Vietnam with the Marine Corps, his father-in-law Bill serving in the Army, his Uncle Dick serving in the Air Force, Uncle Terry serving in the Navy, and Uncle Dick serving in the Marine Corps.
He recently traveled to Washington D.C. and joined long-time friend Sergeant Major Aaron Little, United States Army and Special Aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark A Milley at his promotion ceremony.
In 2013, Mark created Honor Canvas honoring the service of military members and veterans and in 2016 was presented with the opportunity to connect with Never Forgotten Honor Flights.
An affiliate of the Honor Flight Network, a national network made-up of over 100 independent Hubs in 45 states, The Never Forgotten Honor Flight is a Wausau based organization established in 2009 with the simple goal of flying veterans from it’s region to Washington D.C. in order to visit memorials built in their honor.
The Never Forgotten Honor Flight program receives no government funding and is supported entirely via commercial and private donors including civic and veteran organizations, employees of corporations, churches, schools, various foundations. The only qualifying requirement a veteran must meet to participate in an Honor Flight is service during stated time periods and honorable discharge from any branch of the U.S. military. There is absolutely no travel cost to the veteran at all.
During this one day trip veterans and their guardians visit the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam Memorials along with other historical landmarks including Iwo Jima Memorial (Marine Corps War Memorial), Air Force Memorial, Pentagon Memorial, and the Arlington National Cemetary where they have the opportunity to see the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The Never Forgotten Honor Flight Hub has hosted more than 3,500 veterans since 2009 as they make this memorable trip and together with the other five Wisconsin Honor Flight Hubs flew more veterans to Washinton D.C. than any other state in 2018. Currently hosting WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War-era veterans, The Never Forgotten Honor Flight also serves terminally ill veterans from any era.
In 2016 Gannett Media partnered Mayfield Sports Marketing with an opportunity to honor those who had served by sponsoring celebrity athlete John Kuhn to join 98 local veterans on a May 2016 Honor Flight. USA TODAY NETWORK and Gannett Media’s “Honoring Our Freedom” showcased military mail from home from the Civil War through current operations.
“With the success of the Brewers’ Jonathan Lucroy going on the flight in Milwaukee in 2014, we thought it would be awesome to have a Packers player go on a flight. Working with and knowing John, we didn't make any other suggestions for players to go on the flight. John has always been involved with the Wisconsin communities in a variety of ways. Not only being a huge fan favorite, we knew he would be humbled to take the flight and the journey with the veterans on the flight.” ~ Mark Mayfield, Mayfield Sports Marketing.
During his time with the Honor Flight participants, Kuhn had the opportunity to interview six of them for a half-hour documentary, John Kuhn Honoring our Freedom DVD, about their journey which premiered Veterans Day 2016.
“To sit and have the conversations with the (veterans) I’ve had, it’s really been impressive to hear some of their stories, see the smiles on their faces and see what this truly means to them,” Kuhn said during the May 16 trip.
For players such as Kramer, who played during the Vietnam era, participating in the Honor Flights is a way of bringing healing. Players during the 1960s are well aware of the reception the veterans got coming home. For these athletes, it's a chance to give the players a homecoming they didn't get before.
Playing during the Vietnam era and seeing first hand the cold homecomings Vietnam vets received decades ago had a big impact on Hall of Famer and Packer great Jerry Kramer and played a major role in his decision to get involved with the Never Forgotten Honor Flight program.
“I saw this as an attempt to ease some of the pain for some of the Vietnam veterans, I thought maybe this could heal things a little bit,” Kramer said. “I thought if they could see the monuments, memorials, and all the things that have been erected for them … and maybe hear the cheers of a few folks along the way … it might help a little bit.”
A storyteller in his own right, Kramer enjoyed having the chance interview veterans once again for a half-hour documentary, Jerry Kramer Honoring our Freedom DVD, while sharing his own stories of the Ice Bowl and playing under legendary Green Bay Packer coach Vince Lombardi.
Green Bay Packer Hall of Famer Gilbert Brown and Mayfield Sports Marketing Owner and President Mark Mayfield had the opportunity to join area veterans on a Never Forgotten Honor Flight in May 2018. With a father who served in the Navy, Brown understands first hand the sacrifices military members and their families make.
"Every time I'm signing autographs or every time I'm somewhere, I stand up and shake these guys' hands. Just out of the respect for the things they have done us and paved the way for us," he said.
Continuing the tradition of Kuhn and Kramer before him, Brown also had the opportunity to sit down and interview veterans on the flight for a half-hour documentary, Gilbert Brown Honoring our Freedom DVD. He even credits his time with the Green and Gold for helping him take on the new challenge of interviewer:
"Being able to interview these guys, it lets them open up because they do feel like we have a rapport," Brown said. "Football, basketball, guys like us, we're the made-up guys. We're like the comic book guys compared to these guys. They are real-life heroes and champions
If you are a nonprofit and would like to work with a celebrity athlete to bring awareness to your cause, contact Mayfield Sports Marketing today with our convenient online contact form. We can help connect you with an athlete that will enhance your fundraising and bring visibility to your efforts.
On behalf of everyone at Mayfield Sports Marketing, thank you to all the veterans for your service and Honor Flight organizations who do such great work.
January 15, 1967, was the date. Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum was the place. For the 61, 946 spectators that day, as well as a national audience on two TV networks (NBC and CBS both simulcast the game), sports history was made in the inaugural AFL-NFL World Championship Game, now known as Super Bowl I.
This week, as part of the NFL 100 season-long celebration, the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs will relive the glory of Super Bowl I by playing on Sunday Night Football. With star quarterback Patrick Mahomes dealing with a knee injury, the Green & Gold look to keep their three-game win streak alive.
As the first championship game between the long-established NFL and the upstart AFL, many spectators were interested in who would win, the Packers led by Bart Starr or the Chiefs with Len Dawson at quarterback.
At halftime, Green Bay only held a 14-10 lead. It appeared the Chiefs, who had beaten the Buffalo Bills 31-7 in the AFL Championships game, would be tough competition for the Packers. Then, at the beginning of the third quarter, Packers safety Willie Wood intercepted a key pass, delivered a 50-yard return and the Packers went on to score 21 unanswered points. The final score of Super Bowl I: 35-10 in favor of the Packers.
Eleven players from that first championship Packers team, in addition to Head Coach Vince Lombardi, went on to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Green Bay would go on to win three more Super Bowl championships, including Super Bowl II the following year.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is incredibly proud to partner with several of the starters from that historic game. All-Pro RG Jerry Kramer was an integral part of the Packers offensive line that season and WR Boyd Dowler was one of Bart Starr's favorite targets. Dave Robinson was a key player in the Packers linebacking corps while punter Donny Anderson helped introduce the NFL to the concept of "hang-time" in punting. While a neck injury sidelined Paul Hornung for Super Bowl I, his impact on Packer history is legendary and he is one of only nine players to win both the Heisman Trophy and the NFL's MVP Award.
Kramer and Robinson would eventually be inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame, and Dowler will hopefully be a member of the 2020 Canton class.
If you're a Packers fan, there's no greater thrill than to be in the presence of Packer greatness. At Mayfield Sports Marketing, we count ourselves some of the luckiest people on Earth to work with Kramer, Dowler, and Robinson on various events, including autograph signings, opening day ceremonies, and speaking engagements.
We wish the Green Bay Packers the best as they take on the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday night, and we thank our HOF Packers players for bringing that first trophy home to Wisconsin.
If you're interested in having a HOF Green Bay Packer at your next event, contact Mayfield Sports Marketing today via our online contact form. With multiple Super Bowl rings between them, these guys know how to win and help your business succeed. Come join the winning team today!
The 2019 NFL season marks the 100th anniversary of the league with the NFL designating an "NFL 100 Game of the Week" each week to symbolize the league's history and its most memorable moments.
This commemorative series of games began with the Packers vs. the Bears in Week 1, showcasing the oldest rivalry in professional football. Now, the NFL 100 comes to Lambeau Field this week in a rematch of Super Bowl II, the Oakland Raiders vs. the Green Bay Packers.
The 1967 season was an amazing season for the Packers, who were coming off a win in Super Bowl I. Behind legendary Hall of Fame coach Vince Lombardi, and the quarterbacking excellence of Hall of Famer Bart Starr, the Packers had their sights set on defending the inaugural Super Bowl title.
It was an uphill climb just to reach the Super Bowl for a second time. Star players Paul Hornung and Jim Taylor were gone. The players signed to replace them were injured early in the season. Starr missed four games because of injury and had almost twice as many interceptions as touchdowns.
It was the wide receivers that carried the offense that season. Carroll Dale averaged 21.1 yards per catch and Boyd Dowler scored 4 touchdowns with 846 receiving yards. Interesting fact: Boyd Dowler is one of six wide receivers on the NFL 50th Anniversary team, but is the only one of the six yet to be named to the Hall of Fame. Packers fans are hopeful that 2020 will be the year that injustice is corrected.
The Packers had a 9-4-1 record heading into the playoffs, but had given up 78 points in their last three games. They dug deep in the playoffs, first beating the Los Angeles Rams 28-7, then coming from behind to beat the Dallas Cowboys 21-7 in the infamous Ice Bowl game.
In Super Bowl II, the Packers were dominant, beating the Oakland Raiders 33-14. Bart Starr became the first player to be named MVP in back to back Super Bowls. In addition to Vince Lombardi, nine Packer players went on to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is proud to work with both current and former Green Bay Packers players. We are especially proud of our connection with Super Bowl I and II via HOF players Dave Robinson and Jerry Kramer, as well as future HOFer Boyd Dowler. All of them are beloved figures in Lambeau lore and always draw a large, enthusiastic crowd at every event they are a part of.
If you're interested in working with either Dave Robinson, Jerry Kramer, or Boyd Dowler at your next autograph session, business event, or speaking engagement, contact Mayfield Sports Marketing today using our convenient online contact form. You're sure to have a great turnout when a Packers legend shows up!
On behalf of everyone at Mayfield Sports Marketing, good luck to the Packers this weekend against the Raiders in this special NFL 100 commemorative game.
Brett Favre endorses Wrangler, or Giannis Antetokounmpo supports a local business, sales turn to gold and that brand gets an immediate positive boost. How do you take that stellar outcome to the world of non-profit event or a charity event? There is an art form to getting the most mileage from a celebrity athlete when it comes to nonprofit fundraising. A quick photo opportunity and some good press from an event are not enough.
Because a successful athlete-nonprofit partnership requires time and a strong commitment, it's important to find an athlete who cares about your cause. It's always amazing to see an athlete support a cause because they've been personally affected by it.
Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Kenny Clark has been open about his experience growing up while his father served time. It's because of his personal connection that he does work with Angel Tree, a nonprofit helping children with incarcerated parents.
If the athlete has a personal connection, they are more likely to give 100% to make sure that your fundraising efforts are a success.
As a nonprofit, you will get more fundraising bang for your buck if you are working with a celebrity who can make a serious commitment to your organization. Sure, a one-time event or golf outing is great, but what you are really after is the athlete who is more concerned about the cause and less about their own personal publicity.
Recently, Super Bowl champion Gilbert Brown attended the 24th annual Buckets for Hunger event in Madison Wisconsin. Gilbert greeted fans, took several photos and was even the live auctioneer on a few very rare autographed Packer memorabilia items.
Raising funds for an incredible organization that helps the local food pantry is a great way to spend a Friday night
Gilbert Brown on attending Buckets for Hunger in Madison, WI
So much of the athlete-nonprofit partnership is finding just the right celebrity to work with. You need an athlete who has an organic connection to your brand. The athlete's image and brand have to work in conjunction with yours. It's not just about the star factor.
A recognizable name, whether it's a current player like Packers Aaron Jones or Hall of Famer like Packers Dave Robinson, can make a big difference for your nonprofit. But, it has to be a good fit, one where both the athlete and organization have shared values and images.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is the best in the business at negotiating athlete appearance fees for your nonprofit or foundation. We have a wide selection of athletes we work with across multiple leagues (NFL, MLB, NBA) and can help you find the perfect fit for a large ROI. Contact us today and come join our winning team!
Whether you’re looking for a current star like Davante Adams of the Green Bay Packers or a Hall of Famer with endorsement experience like Brett Favre, finding the right athlete for your product endorsement can do a lot, such as:
Of course, there are athletes that command top dollar when it comes to an endorsement deal. With the help of an experienced sports marketing agency, however, you can find an athlete to fit any budget.
If you're trying to find an athlete to endorse your product, you need to offer something they might want. Have a great product? Celebrity athletes are just like the rest of us -- they like free stuff, too. Sharing some swag with an athlete is a way of letting them try your product, which could lead to an endorsement. At the least, you may get a social media shoutout (think of it as an unofficial endorsement!)
Many athletes have favorite causes and will usually go out of their way to make appearances or fundraise for them. By aligning your company with a cause or two, you are not only enhancing the positive image of your brand, but you are also creating common ground for an athlete to endorse your product or service. For example, did you know that every athlete that signs an endorsement deal with New Balance gets money and merchandise for use with their charitable endeavors?
Also, consider the wisdom behind "minor stars are major draws". Many businesses want to have an endorsement, but don't have the budget for a major star. That's OK. Many athletes are looking to enhance their brand as well, so consider a beloved Hall of Famer such as Gilbert Brown or an up and comer such as Packers safety Darnell Savage.
When it comes to finding the right athlete for your product endorsement, the best thing you can do is talk to a sports marketing expert who can help you clearly define your business goals. You're looking for a celebrity athlete that not only appreciates your product but also ties in with your brand identity and your overall message.
Mayfield Sports Marketing can help. With our extensive network of industry contacts and the relationships we've formed with numerous athletes across different sports leagues, we have something to offer everyone. Use our online contact form to let us know what you're in the market for and Mark Mayfield will work his magic for your business.
Don't let opportunity pass you by! Contact Mayfield Sports Marketing today and let us help you find just the right celebrity athlete for your next product endorsement!
Every year, Kenny Clark just keeps getting better and better. In his fourth NFL season, as a 1st round pick out of UCLA, Clark has his sights set on a playoff berth for the Packers and a Pro Bowl selection outright for himself.
Currently, after four games, Clark is tied for third in tackles (17), third in sacks (1.5) with 7 sack yards, and tied for first with a forced fumble. After last season when he was named a Pro Bowl alternate, it is clear that Clark is improving his game and no less than his HOF quarterback is paying attention.
“I think one guy who is maybe the quietest, underrated star in this league is Kenny Clark. He does it all the time, but he doesn’t do it with the boisterous, crazy loud celebrations or animated press conferences. He just goes about it and does his business.”
Green Bay Packer QB Aaron Rodgers on Clark after win against Minnesota Vikings
Mike Pettine, the defensive coordinator for Green Bay, has given his defensive players more freedom to react to situations on the field as they develop, and Clark’s evolution in knowing when to take chances and when to play more conservatively is a major reason why the Packers are eyeing a contract extension past 2020.
If you’re a big fan of Kenny Clark, Mayfield Sports and the Green Bay Distillery would love to have you come out for “The Kenny Clark Show”, a live radio show broadcast from the Distillery on Wednesdays from 6-7 PM. Doors open at 4:30 and weekly prizes are handed out. For those who can’t make it in person, you can catch the show on Sports Radio 107.5 and 1400 The Fan.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is proud to work with Kenny Clark and other current and former Green Bay Packers. Kenny is available for corporate events, grand openings, as well as fundraisers and golf tournaments. His winning personality and commitment to the community are what make him so popular at every event we do together.
If you’re interested in having a star athlete at your next event, contact Mayfield Sports Marketing using our online contact form. Let us work with you to find just the right athlete for your business or nonprofit.
For sports fans, there is no greater thrill than being able to meet a celebrity athlete in person. Even better is getting an autograph and taking home proof that you have spent time in the presence of a sports hero. When your business associates with current athletes like Alvin Kamara and Melvin Gordon or a former superstar like Brett Favre, customers take notice!
If you are a business or nonprofit, autograph sessions can take your event to the next level. They are guaranteed to increase turnout and attention to your business. For foundations and nonprofits, having an auction of autographed items is a surefire way to bump up interest and raise considerable funds.
The most important decision you will make is to decide what athlete you want to have. You don’t have to try and book an athlete yourself. An established sports marketing agency will have connections to connect and hopefully book the athlete you want. They can also discuss with you what you hope to accomplish at your event and provide choices you might not have thought of.
For a foundation or nonprofit, keep in mind that athletes often have a favorite charity or cause they want to promote. You will have more success in booking an athlete if your organization promotes a cause that is near and dear to the athlete’s heart.
While everyone seems to want a current star athlete, there are other options. Often, former athletes, especially Hall of Famers like Jerry Kramer or Paul Molitor, are big draws. Another general rule of thumb is “even minor stars are major draws”. Minor league players, team broadcasters, coaches, and athletes who were stars in college can all increase turnout and provide significant positive exposure for your business. Keep your options open!
Have a wide variety of things available to be signed. Also, make sure to get some extra signatures for people to purchase later if they can’t make it to the event.
Finally, promote, promote, promote! It’s not just advertising the event beforehand. It’s also vital to promote afterward through social media postings and other advertisements. A celebrity athlete provides star power and credibility to your business. Take advantage of that and create interest in when your next event will be taking place!
There is so much upside to an autograph session for your business. A well-run autograph session can really take your event to the next level. If you’re interested in setting one up, contact Mayfield Sports Marketing using our convenient online contact form. We have extensive connections with current and former athletes in many sports and would love to see your business or nonprofit gain exposure and brand awareness.
Be a part of a winning team! Contact Mayfield Sports Marketing today.
As the 3-1 Green Bay Packers prepare for this weekend’s key matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, one of the key questions on everyone’s mind is the playing status of two-time Pro Bowler and star wide receiver Davante Adams.
In last Thursday’s game, Adams posted a career-high 180 receiving yards but suffered a turf toe injury that sidelined him for the fourth quarter. According to reports from ESPN, he is unlikely to play this Sunday.
However, Ian Rapoport from NFL Network has reported that Adams has undergone an MRI scan and the injury is “not believed to be serious”. With nine days between games, hope springs eternal among Packer Nation that Adams might see some playing time.
“...he's a freak athlete. He's a hard worker and just his releases in general. He can probably do the same thing with one leg so don't be surprised if you see him out there Sunday.”
Packer Allen Lazard on Adam's recovery from a turf toe injury
Mayfield Sports Marketing is proud to partner with Davante Adams and we wish him a speedy recovery. He’s a big part of the Packer’s success this season and we count ourselves fortunate to work with an athlete of his caliber to bring high profile to success to businesses and nonprofits.
If you’re interested in partnering with a current or former Green Bay Packer for an upcoming corporate event, grand opening, non-profit fundraiser, or speaking engagement, Mayfield Sports Marketing is the sports marketing firm you should have on speed dial. We work with a star-studded roster of players, including current Pro Bowlers like Davante Adams, to make sure your event is a success.
Simply use our online contact form to let Mark Mayfield and his staff know what you’re looking for. Then, watch the magic as they find the perfect celebrity athlete for your event. Mark prides himself on finding and hiring the best football speaker for your event. So, come and join the winning team at Mayfield Sports Marketing.
Davante, we’re rooting for you. Here’s to a speedy recovery and a return to your winning ways!
Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon is returning to the Chargers Thursday, September, 26. As one of the best running backs in the NFL today, Gordon is sure to quickly get back into playing mode and resume making life difficult for teams in the AFC WEST
During the 2018 season, Gordon achieved a career-high 5.1 yards per carry and scored 14 touchdowns while accumulating 885 total rushing yards. The Bolts finished with an impressive 12-4 record, beating Baltimore in the wild card playoff round before losing to the eventual Super Bowl champion Patriots. Gordon has made a significant difference to the Chargers offense since being drafted in 2015.
In each of the last three seasons, Melvin Gordon has led the Los Angeles Chargers in rushing averaging 996 rushing yards and 9.3 rushing touchdowns per season. The NFL has noticed, making Gordon a two-time Pro Bowl player.
A native son of Wisconsin, Melvin Gordon thrilled crowds at Camp Randall Stadium as he led the Badgers to two Big 10 championships. The 2014 season marked Gordon as the best running back in the nation as he won the Doak Walker award as well as a second-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting. He was selected by the San Diego Chargers with the 15th overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is proud to be Melvin’s Exclusive Memorabilia Company along with Radtke Sports. If your company seeks an athlete appearance, endorsement or motivational speaking for an athlete like Melvin Gordon, we’ve got you covered with an extensive selection of athletes, both current and former, who can add pizazz and excitement to any occasion.
Contact Mayfield Sports Marketing today and be a part of the winning team! 262.366.8188
The Gilbert Brown tailgate party returned to Stadium View Sports Bar and Banquet Hall yesterday with Super Bowl Champion Eugene Robinson and Green Bay Packer Hall of Famer Ahman Green to get the fans ready for the Packer’s game against the Denver Broncos. Rain may have moved the party inside but didn’t keep the fans away from the fun with hundreds of Packer, and even a few Bronco fans stopping by to say “Hi” while grabbing an autograph and selfie of their favorite players.
Coming to Green Bay from Seattle in 1995, Robinson recorded 55 tackles and led the Packers with eight interceptions as the team went on to become Super Bowl XXXI Champions, beating the New England Patriots, Robinson’s hometown team, 35-21. In 1999 Robinson was awarded the Bart Starr Award, presented to an NFL player exemplifying outstanding leadership and character in the community, on the field, and in the home.
The Packer’s all-time leading rusher, Ahman Green played 8 of his 12 NFL seasons with the Green Bay Packers before retiring as one in 2009. During his tenure with Green Bay, he made four trips to the Pro Bowl (2001-2004) and was the NFC Offensive Player of the Year (2003). Green was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Football Hall of Fame on July 19, 2014.
Few establishments as large as Stadium View have remained in a single family for as long as they have, entering their 27th Packer season as the favorite local “Mom & Pop” sports bar to meet up with friends and catch the game. Mayfield Sports Marketing and Gilbert Brown were honored when second-generation owners Bob and Amanda Watson approached them about teaming up to host the Exclusive Gilbert “The Gravedigger” Brown Tailgate Party before each Packer home game. With a full staff that is second to none when it comes to cold drinks, delicious food, and fun there is no better place to start the game day experience than at Stadium View Sports Bar and Banquet Hall.
Mayfield Sports Marketing is a leading speakers bureau and sports marketing agency helping large and small companies book celebrity athletes for speaking events, athlete appearances, and autograph sessions. Interested in bringing Gilbert Brown, Eugene Robinson, Ahman Green, or another celebrity athlete to your next event? Contact The Mayfield Sports Marketing team at 262-366-8188 or by completing our online form requesting a quote.
