Welcome to the eleventh edition of the Locker Room Labs Sports Technology Spotlight. In this series, we sit down with industry partners and experts to discuss the evolving world of sports tech including the incredible innovations being developed in the space. The next professional we interviewed is Sports Business Development Professional, Matt Taylor. Matt discusses his perspective on topics such as partnerships, innovation, and more.
Can you discuss any successful collaborations or partnerships between sports companies and organizations that you find particularly inspiring?
I think it’s been impressive to see how sports organizations are embracing sports betting and sports betting companies. To think of the negative stigma sports betting had 15-20 years ago, and now to see how it’s come full circle with organizations partnering with it. To me, it shows that people are open to anything if the due diligence is done.
How do you approach partnerships with sports leagues and organizations to enhance the popularity and credibility of the athletes you have represented?
One of the biggest things I’ve learned when it comes to partnerships is listening. Too often today people come in with a pitch/agenda and they don’t take the time to listen to what their customers need. For example, working with the NFL, every team operates differently, is in different markets, and has different needs. So before you can even begin to talk about what you can offer, you have to listen to them and absorb information from them. Once you have that information, you know where to go with the conversation and how/if you can help.
Can you share your perspective on the current trends and innovations in the sports industry that you find most exciting?
With the rise of technology, instant gratification, and sports betting the ability people have to make live bets or how instant there are changes to the lines is incredible. People are constantly checking trying to get the edge on others. I see that only becoming bigger and something that sets others apart. Also, I think the rise in technology allows fans to get closer to their favorite teams and players.
How do you see the intersection of sports technology and fan engagement evolving in the coming years?
With our 24/7 content consumption culture I think that has allowed people to be more connected to their favorite teams and players. Through content, social media, and other experiences teams have found a way to keep their fans constantly engaged year-round. Which creates a more passionate fan and fan base. They feel like they are along for the ride too.
You have many conversations with professionals in the sports industry daily. What are some of the biggest challenges you have encountered in these conversations?
The biggest obstacle is getting that foot in the door and having the initial conversation. It takes some persistence. It takes some relatability and relationship-building. You have to listen and showcase that you can help them now. You have to show how this can be beneficial long term and you’re looking to form a relationship and not here to get a check.
In your opinion, what are the most significant barriers to entry for new startups in the sports industry?
Forming a partnership with a sports organization, regardless of size, boils down to two key things: Can you save them time and can you save/make them money? If you can strongly showcase those two things, you give yourself an advantage. Now from a startup standpoint, after you show those things, you have to show what sets you apart from the others. Can you handle the demands that come with working in a sports organization? Are you going to be there when we need you? Are you set up for growth? What are your long-term plans with the team and sport?
How do you navigate the complexities of regulatory environments when expanding your business development services for the sports industry to different regions?
Before going into an area you need to know the regulations currently and what things are on the horizon. Be able to adjust to the changes that can and probably will happen. Have options and be flexible.
How do you think the rise of social media platforms has impacted the marketing and user acquisition strategies for betting, fantasy, and iGaming platforms?
Social media has made it easier to get in front of more people instantly. However, it has allowed a lot more people to do so as well. I say use that to your advantage. You can constantly get your product in front of people and showcase what you do, how you do it, how you do it better, and what you have to offer. It allows for a platform to showcase what you have to offer!
About Matt Taylor
Matt has over two decades of expertise in connecting professional athletes and teams with the brands they need to enhance their performance. He has a proven track record of delivering results and achieving 9-figure business proposals in less than two months. He is skilled in business development, marketing, content creation, and leadership within the sports industry. Throughout his diverse roles and experiences, he has consistently delivered results and possesses the unique ability to adapt effectively in any landscape, showcasing flexibility and achieving success.
About Locker Room Labs
We are a US-based, and software engineer-owned, development team specializing in sports, betting, fantasy, and iGaming. From UX Design and MVP Development to Custom App Development and Fractional CTO services, we are tailored to bring sports software to life. A testament to our innovation is “The Playbook,” a proprietary sports platform-as-a-service that accelerates development time and saves clients on build costs. To reach us, you can visit our website here.
