Event Sponsor
Grand Rapids is a sports town. Youth/amateur sports tourism generated $87.9 million in estimated economic impact for the West Michigan region in 2023 through 121 events, according to the West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC). Last year, those events drew 277,980 athletes/visitors and filled 43,775 hotel room nights. The Grand Rapids Griffins, the West Michigan Whitecaps, and the Grand Rapids Gold were early leaders in the West Michigan sports scene, with their work being recognized by the Sports Business Journal, ranking Grand Rapids-Comstock Park as the nation’s #1 minor league sports market in 2019. The newest addition—the Grand Rapids Rise—builds on this entrepreneurial work.
Public relations professionals representing all types of clients can ride the impact, success, and popularity of athletes and teams that have played a vital role in this economic expansion.
This panel explores what the business of sports means for West Michigan and public relations professionals in overlapping or adjacent fields.
PANELISTS:
Randy Cleves, Vice President of Communications, Grand Rapids Griffins and Grand Rapids Rise
A 33-year veteran of public relations in professional hockey, Randy Cleves is in his 26th season with the two-time American Hockey League Calder Cup champions. He serves in the same VP capacity for Pro Volleyball Federation’s Grand Rapids Rise, who began play in January 2024, and oversaw the public relations efforts of the Arena Football League’s Grand Rapids Rampage from 1999-2001. In his role, Cleves directs all aspects of public, media, and community relations for the Griffins. In addition to overseeing a variety of programs and initiatives throughout West Michigan, Cleves has helped stage numerous high-profile events during his time in Grand Rapids.
Brittney DeLand, Marketing & PR Manager, Grand Rapids Gold
Brittney DeLand is the Marketing & Public Relations Manager for the Grand Rapids Gold, entering her third season with the team and her sixth season working in sports. She played a key role in the team's transition to Van Andel Arena from the DeltaPlex Arena in 2022. Prior to joining the Gold, Brittney worked at Western Michigan University as a Graduate Assistant, where she received her Master's degree in Mass Media Communications. Brittney also worked in the digital media department for the Grand Rapids Griffins and holds a Bachelor's degree in Advertising and Public Relations from Grand Valley State University.
Alex Eisen, Public and Community Relations Coordinator, Grand Rapids Rise and Grand Rapids Griffins
Alex Eisen serves as the public relations coordinator for the Grand Rapids Rise and the community relations coordinator for both the Rise and the Grand Rapids Griffins. In his role with the Rise, he crafts press releases and media materials, manages the team's website, and coordinates interviews. As community relations coordinator for both teams, Eisen focuses on engaging players with the community through various events and initiatives, strengthening the connection between the teams and their fans. His work not only enhances the teams' visibility but also fosters a sense of community pride and involvement.
Mike Guswiler, President, West Michigan Sports Commission
Mike has served over 30 years in the hospitality and tourism industry working for Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Hotels and other private and non-profit organizations geared toward economic impact through tourism. He currently serves as the President of the West Michigan Sports Commission, growing this nonprofit over the past sixteen years, including leading the organization in building, owning, and operating the Meijer Sports Complex baseball/softball facility with 8 fields, plus a Miracle Field geared toward children and adults with disabilities. His primary responsibility is to champion the mission of the West Michigan Sports Commission and its operating entities to the state, region, and nationally by marketing Greater Grand Rapids as a premier destination for sports related business; resulting in economic benefit and quality of life to the region.
Jim Jarecki, General Manager, West Michigan Whitecaps
With 29 years of experience in professional baseball, Jim Jarecki has helped make the vision of the West Michigan Whitecaps a reality starting with the team's inaugural year (1994). As Vice President and General Manager of the Whitecaps, Jim is responsible for creating and upholding the "LMCU Ballpark Experience," which includes fun and exciting family entertainment-for each and every fan that enters through the gates. He has facilitated numerous events at LMCU Ballpark, including the 1995, 2003 and 2014 Midwest League All-Star Games, six Midwest League championship series, the Detroit Tigers exhibition game, Fantasy Camps and facility events. Jim's experience in professional baseball includes operations, marketing, ticket and sponsorship sales, promotions and media relations. He started with the Chicago White Sox in telemarketing and his minor league experience has included working with the Oklahoma City 89er as an intern and the Beloit Brewers as Assistant GM.
REGISTRATION:
Members $25
Future Members: $35
Students and Un-/Under-employed: Free
AMA Members: $25
ASL interpretation is available on request when registering at least one week in advance.
Please register by November 12.