Islanders Community Relations

Bridgeport Islanders – Community Relations Revamp
Position: Vice President of Marketing
Location: Bridgeport, CT
Duration: 2020 - 2024

As Marketing Director for the Bridgeport Islanders, I spearheaded a full-scale refresh of the team's community relations program with a focus on deeper local integration, more authentic player involvement, and stronger nonprofit collaboration. The project began with a comprehensive audit of our previous outreach efforts, revealing gaps in consistency, visibility, and impact. From there, I built a new framework grounded in meaningful connection and sustained engagement.

At the core of this initiative was a revamped player outreach program, transforming our athletes into visible, regular contributors to the community. We created a rotating calendar of appearances at local schools, youth hockey practices, hospitals, and community centers. To elevate these visits, we developed a series of "surprise and delight" activations—unannounced drop-ins, ticket giveaways, and personalized player interactions—that generated excitement and memorable moments for fans of all ages.

Simultaneously, I led the development of new nonprofit partnerships, aligning with local organizations to co-create themed nights and service campaigns that extended beyond the arena. From youth literacy initiatives to mental health awareness and first responder recognition, each partnership was tied to tangible activations like donation drives, fundraising efforts, or player-led community events. These programs not only boosted attendance but positioned the Islanders as a values-driven organization committed to giving back.

The result was a measurable increase in positive community sentiment, a stronger presence in the local media, and a surge in fan engagement—both in person and online. The new strategy also deepened player investment, as many athletes reported feeling more connected to the city and its residents. The Bridgeport Islanders emerged from this initiative with a clearer community identity and a revitalized reputation as more than just a hockey team—we became a community partner.

Description

  • Bridgeport Islanders

As Marketing Director for the Bridgeport Islanders, I led a comprehensive revamp of the team’s community relations strategy, transforming our approach to player outreach, nonprofit partnerships, and fan engagement. I introduced structured “surprise and delight” moments with players at schools, youth hockey practices, and local events, increasing the team’s visibility and goodwill across Fairfield County. In collaboration with nonprofit partners, I developed themed nights and service initiatives that tied directly into our brand values, while making our athletes more accessible and present in the community. This refreshed approach helped reestablish the Islanders as a community-first organization and deepened our connection with fans both on and off the ice.