Fort Collins Welcomes a New Era in College Athletics: UKG’s Logo at the 50-Yard Line
In a groundbreaking move for college athletics, Colorado State University (CSU) has announced a partnership with Learfield’s Rams Sports Properties and HR technology provider UKG. This collaboration marks a significant milestone as CSU becomes one of the first college athletics programs to feature an on-field logo at the 50-yard line during the upcoming football season. The UKG logo will make its debut at Canvas Stadium during the highly anticipated Rocky Mountain Showdown, a fierce rivalry game between Colorado State and the University of Colorado, set to kick off on Saturday, September 14. This year’s showdown is particularly special as it will be hosted in Fort Collins for the first time since 1996 and will be broadcast nationally on CBS.
A Bold Step Forward
John Weber, the Director of Athletics at Colorado State University, expressed his enthusiasm for this innovative partnership. “Adding UKG’s logo at the 50-yard line is just another innovative way we are pushing to grow our department and a point we take pride in,” Weber stated. He emphasized the excitement surrounding the addition of the field logo, which he believes will enhance the atmosphere leading up to the game. This partnership not only signifies a new marketing strategy for CSU but also highlights the growing trend of integrating corporate branding into college sports.
Visibility and Exposure
The partnership with UKG goes beyond just the logo at the 50-yard line. UKG will enjoy extensive visibility through various in-venue signage and, most importantly, through the nationally televised broadcasts of the game. With the game airing during peak viewing hours on CBS, UKG’s brand will reach a wide audience, amplifying its presence both locally in Fort Collins and across the nation. This exposure is particularly valuable for UKG, which provides HR, payroll, and workforce management software to numerous colleges, universities, and professional sports teams.
A Shared Vision for Great Experiences
Meghan Setzer, Group Vice President of Marketing Communications at UKG, shared her excitement about the partnership, stating, “At UKG, we are all about delivering great experiences, which is what we expect the Rocky Mountain Showdown rivalry to deliver.” Setzer’s comments reflect UKG’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for both employees and fans alike. The collaboration with CSU aligns perfectly with UKG’s mission to inspire organizations to become great places to work, making this partnership a natural fit.
Elevating the Rivalry Game
Kim Damron, President of Learfield Sports Properties, also expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, noting the significance of featuring UKG’s logo at such a pivotal event. “It is tremendously exciting to see UKG and Colorado State embrace the opportunity to elevate one of their most important games of the season,” Damron remarked. The inclusion of UKG’s branding at the 50-yard line is seen as a strategic move to enhance the game’s profile and engage fans in a more meaningful way.
The Role of Rams Sports Properties
Rams Sports Properties, the local team of Learfield, serves as the exclusive multimedia rights holder for Colorado State Athletics. This partnership is a result of collaborative efforts between Rams Sports Properties and Learfield’s corporate business development team, showcasing the importance of strategic partnerships in the evolving landscape of college athletics. By handling all sponsorships, in-venue signage, and advertising for CSU, Rams Sports Properties plays a crucial role in maximizing the university’s brand visibility and revenue potential.
About Colorado State University
Founded in 1870, Colorado State University is one of the nation’s top-performing public research institutions, boasting a diverse student body of over 33,000. Renowned for its world-class faculty and research programs, CSU excels in various fields, including infectious disease, atmospheric science, clean energy technologies, and environmental science. The university’s commitment to providing quality education is reflected in its graduates, who typically carry less student debt and enjoy higher employment rates than their peers nationwide.
About UKG
UKG, which stands for Ultimate Kronos Group, is dedicated to creating great workplace experiences through its human capital management (HCM) technology. With over 80,000 organizations relying on UKG’s HR, payroll, and workforce management solutions, the company is well-positioned to influence workplace culture positively. UKG’s innovative approach combines extensive data analytics with artificial intelligence, enabling organizations to make informed decisions that benefit both employees and business outcomes.
About Learfield
Learfield is a leading media and technology company that powers college athletics through its diverse platforms. With connections to over 1,200 collegiate institutions and 12,000 brand partners, Learfield plays a vital role in enhancing brand awareness and fan engagement in the college sports landscape. The company’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive fan experience includes solutions for merchandise, ticketing, donor identification, and innovative marketing initiatives.
Conclusion
As the Rocky Mountain Showdown approaches, the partnership between Colorado State University, UKG, and Learfield’s Rams Sports Properties is set to redefine the college athletics experience. With the UKG logo prominently displayed at the 50-yard line, fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as two rival teams clash on the field. This collaboration not only highlights the growing intersection of corporate branding and college sports but also sets a precedent for future partnerships in the industry. As CSU continues to innovate and expand its reach, the excitement surrounding this year’s rivalry game is palpable, promising an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike.