DP Fox Sports and G.R. Public Schools Create Partnership
Published on September 11, 2003 under American Hockey League (AHL)
Grand Rapids Griffins News Release
Grand Rapids, Mich. - DP Fox Sports & Entertainment and the Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) have formed an agreement allowing DP Fox Sports to serve as the sales agent for advertising signage at GRPS' Houseman Field.
Net proceeds generated from advertising sales are earmarked for improvements to one of West Michigan's most treasured athletic venues, located just east of downtown Grand Rapids at Diamond Avenue and Lyon Street.
"We have a highly-utilized field, but it is an old field," said Melvin Atkins, executive director of athletics and student activities for GRPS. "In this financially difficult time, we're hoping that advertising revenue will allow us to improve our concession stands, restroom facilities and foundation wall."
The three-year deal, the first of its kind for Houseman Field, gives DP Fox Sports the right to sell banner advertising on several facades of the venue, including the east and west scoreboards, south bleachers, press box, north locker room, north concession stand, southeast concession stands and restrooms, and north bleachers.
"Kids and families are always very excited for the opportunity to play on such an historic field," said Atkins. "I think Houseman Field will continue to grow in terms of the number of spectators. We're exploring a merger with the Ottawa-Kent Conference in 2005, and that would be a positive addition to what we already have to offer. I think the new advertising options are a tremendous opportunity for area businesses."
The 10,000-seat facility, built in 1908, is considered the most utilized high school facility in the state of Michigan. It serves as the home field for the football and track programs of four Grand Rapids high schools: Catholic Central, Creston, Central and Union. Additionally, Grand Rapids Community College's football team and Aquinas College's track team call Houseman Field home. Recently, Houseman Field has hosted high school football playoff games, college football games and state track meets, including the 2003 Division I Lower Peninsula Finals. Various parks and recreational leagues also play at the facility.
"DP Fox Sports has a heartfelt commitment to Grand Rapids and its area schools," said Bob Sack, senior vice president of sales and marketing for DP Fox Sports. "This advertising opportunity at Houseman Field is a natural role for our sports company, and it allows us to help improve a facility that is so meaningful to past and future generations."
Added Atkins, "DP Fox Sports and the DeVos family have been very helpful over the years with our programs, so it is an exciting partnership. I think it will continue to grow and be very beneficial for the families of Grand Rapids."
DP Fox Sports & Entertainment, owner and operator of the AHL's Grand Rapids Griffins and the AFL's Grand Rapids Rampage, is also the sales agent for Standard Federal Ice Center, Griff's IceHouse at Belknap Park, the Soccer Spot in Kentwood, and the Soccer Spot in Holland.
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