The Buffalo Bisons are the AAA affiliate for the Toronto Blue Jays. Last year, their average attendance of 6,846 fans per home game ranked 10th best in the minor leagues. How could they improve on it? There are four Saints they should ask.
Annually, the Applied Sport Management Association (ASMA) hosts a case study competition. Teams from colleges and universities have one month to complete a proposal and then make their pitch to a panel of judges consisting of both academic and industry professionals. This year's theme: increasing awareness and attendance for a minor league baseball franchise.
Siena competed at the conference – held in Birmingham, Alabama this year – for the first time. They chose the Bisons and drafted a proposal, which included the addition of a sports betting lounge at the ballpark, meant to boost attendance and revenue if implemented. The night before the presentation, they rehearsed in the hotel until well past midnight. The next day, they performed for the judges, then waited for the results. Against colleges and universities from across the country, Siena placed second overall. Adam Pfleegor, PhD., associate professor of management, led the trip to Birmingham:
"I am extremely proud of the work that Kari, Sabrina, Nick, and Jack did as members of the case study team. They came up with an innovative proposal and delivered a polished presentation in front of the panel of expert judges. They were outstanding representatives of Siena College at the conference and they all have big things ahead of them as they graduate and transition into the sport industry."
Beyond their own time in front of the microphone, the Saints were able to attend faculty presentations and zip around Birmingham on their scooters (below, left). They also got a tour of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) headquarters, just a short walk from the convention center.
The four graduating Saints all plan to pursue careers in sports business – from corporate partnerships to player marketing. Their success at the ASMA conference is not just a resume enhancer, it's a confidence builder.
"ASMA was definitely such an amazing opportunity," said Sabria Della Bella. "I can already feel my confidence skyrocket since this conference. I was able to make friends from different schools and even network a little! If you get the opportunity to go to ASMA in the future, take it and run!”
"I think it was an amazing opportunity for us to get some hands-on experience right before we graduate. I'm so happy with the work we accomplished together. It is a challenge to have a career in the sports world, and this opportunity was super rewarding for all of us!"
Jack Bloniarz '23
"My team worked extremely hard on our project and I couldn't be more proud of what we accomplished! We made a name for Siena College in the South and showed what Siena brings to the table! I am very thankful for this experience and the professors at Siena that have helped me along the way."
Kari Nieber '23
"I had a great time learning, networking, and gaining real experience in the sports industry. The opportunity to represent Siena at the national level was a great experience, and we had so much fun. Go Saints!"
Nick Mancusi '23
