Today, I sat down with Mark Bradley. A UEFA Mentor for Fan Engagement at the Barca Innovation Hub, and the creator of his own initiative called, The Fan Experience Co.

The Barca Innovation Hub, is an amazing initiative started by FC Barcelona, and given their club motto "Mes Que Un Club" meaning "More Than a Club" you would not be surprised. This initiative which started in 2017, is an educational pathway, in many realms, such as Sports Marketing, Sports Management, Fan Engagement, and several other classes.

In Mark's class in Fan Experience, he references 2 teams based here in the US. One being the Philadelphia Union of the MLS. The other being none other than your South Bend Lion's. I wanted to sit down with him, and get his take on why he chose to use the Lion's as a bench mark in fan engagement, and what he thought the Lion's were doing correct, especially during this tough time.

With Mark being a Sunderland FC fan, he has some great stories to tell, including his own, on being a fan of a club that has had its ups, and downs. For those of you, who have seen the documentary on YouTube "Sunderland till I die" you will get it. We had a great conversation about this, and it really makes you think, just how important a team can be to a smaller community, a hard working community. Just like we have here in South Bend.

We also spoke about the opportunity all teams, and organizations have now, at this point. With Covid shutting things down. Everyone now has the opportunity to turn their game day experience, and fan engagement around, and make their stadium, and their team the place to be. Start something organic, and create an experience like no other.

I really enjoyed talking to Mark, and with this being something I am specifically passionate about myself. I am excited to see how the Lion's continue their journey in this arena, and continue to show South Bend, that this is more than just Soccer.

Don't forget to check out Mark's website below!

WEBSITE- https://fanexperienceco.com/

They also have a podcast as well.... hoping I get on there soon :) So give them a listen, and a follow.

PODCAST- https://fanexperienceco.com/resources/podcasts/

If you are interested in checking out the Barca Innovation Hub. Please use the link below!

BARCA INNOVATION HUB- https://barcainnovationhub.com/

RIVER 'N' ROAR Official Podcast of your South Bend Lion's

TWITTER- @RiverNRoar

Conversation with Mark Bradley: UEFA Mentor for Fan Engagement at the Barca Innovation Hub, and creator of The Fan Experience Co.

River 'N' Roar By Don MooreDec 09, 2020