We heard from a couple of former Heisman Trophy winners (thanks to Carson Palmer and Tim Brown) as well as speakers representing the NFL, Kansas City Chiefs, Miami Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium and Major League Soccer.
Brand Innovators co-founder Marc Sternberg and Seer CEO Peter Sorckoff welcome the crowd
L-R: Jeff Sittner, Global Venues and Sports Practice Lead, Burns & McDonnell; Sam Coghill, VP-Stadium Operations, Miami Dolphins and Hardrock Stadium; Carter Ladd, Chief Revenue Officer, MLS Soccer; and Moderator Peter Sorckoff, CEO, Seer
On the NFL side, we heard lots of talk about TikTok and NFL teams trying to loosen the social media reins on players. Smart move by the teams at a moment when fans have such high expectations of direct connections to their heroes. Also smart in a generational sense as the NFL focuses on wooing that all-important youth segment.
Tyler Epp, EVP Business Operations for the Kansas City Chiefs
L-R: Paul McGoohan, Vice President Of Business Development, Tepper Sports & Entertainment; Gil Moran, VP Business Strategy & Operations, Digital Media, NFL; and Peter Sorckoff, CEO, Seer
Later the scene shifted to the incredible annual charity dinner known as Culinary Kickoff.
Brand Innovators partnered with Culinary Kickoff and had a special VIP section within the larger event.
Celeb chef Charlie Palmer with winemaker (and, oh yeah, Super Bowl winner) Charles Woodson
Now in its sixth year, Culinary Kickoff is hosted by Chefs Michael Mina and Charlie Palmer and features six additional celebrity chefs cooking for an exclusive audience of about 400. Proceeds go to the Culinary Institute of America and a handful of other charities.
NFL Legend Jerry Rice
Legendary 49ers wide receiver Jerry Rice was in the house and–thanks for asking–Jamie Foxx (below) did indeed DJ the afterparty. Here are a few more of our favorite images from Day 1 of Super Bowl week. Enjoy.
For more information about this and other Brand Innovators events, go here.
All photos by Kat Papera
