Sports Teams incorporating Social Media

Detroit Pistons To Host Social Media Night 

The Detroit Pistons have always been on the cutting edge when it comes to their brand.  They were the first teams to have their own private plane and now they are reaching out to their fans in a new and exciting way. 

Fans that purchase tickets on Facebook (facebook.com/detroitpistons) or Twitter (twitter.com/detroitpistons) will have access to three exclusive ticket offers for the game on February 2. Option 1 includes a 100-level ticket, social media t-shirt, exclusive pre-game meet and greet opportunity with Pistons’ forward Jonas Jerebko and VIP Club access for $125. Option 2 includes a 100-level ticket, social media t-shirt and exclusive pre-game meet and greet opportunity with Jerebko for $35. Option 3 includes a 200-level ticket and social media t-shirt for only $10.

The Pistons will also give selected local bloggers the opportunity to cover the game and write about their experience at The Palace. Following an application and approval process, bloggers will receive a lower-level suite ticket and have access to an exclusive post-game media interview session with forward Charlie Villanueva. Any post-game coverage that is shared will receive recognition on Pistons.com. Bloggers can apply at http://www.pistons.com/social_app by January 26 to apply for this unique experience. The website location provided should include specific examples of your work in regards to Pistons or other sports coverage. 

Football + Foursquare= Fans

Most football games you get a hot dog, some beer, and a giant foam hand.  But Redskins fans can expect something different.  When you check into foursquare can unlock the Redskins badge.  They can do this by either checking in to FedExField or checking in on three separate occasions at featured Redskins bars in the Washington D.C. area. Fans that play the Foursquare game will also uncover tips from the team.

Fans not lured to Foursquare by the promise of a new badge may change their mind once they find about the grand prize — two loge tickets and pre-game field passes. Also included is a tailgate party with the GEICO Caveman. Who doesn’t want to party with that guy?

Looking at the bigger picture, it’s interesting to see professional sports  teams embrace new social platforms so quickly. The obvious benefits include social exposure and the chance to convert more fans into ticket buyers. It is refreshing to see teams thing outside the box and have fun with their fans.