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  • This week · 6
  • This quarter · 11
  • Big bets · 3
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Generated Oct 23, 2026
  1. Programmable
  2. Playbooks
  3. FC Cincinnati
FC Cincinnati logo

growth playbook · Oct 23, 2026

fccincinnati.com (opens in a new tab)

FC Cincinnati growth playbook

Diagnosis

FC Cincinnati has a strong product (a 2023 Supporters' Shield, TQL Stadium, an app rated 4.92) and its hiring shows where it wants more revenue: a Group Ticketing AE for companies and youth clubs, two business development AEs for the full ticket and hospitality range, and a Director of Partnership Marketing to prove partner value and renew.

The website doesn't yet back those teams up: the group pages are titled only "FC Cincinnati" and the group FAQ still refers to the 2025 schedule, partner and group pages reuse the homepage description, the newest "new partner" story is from July 2025, and the homepage is heavy on phones.

This playbook rebuilds the group hub first, fixes titles and partner pages, then connects partner activations, First Match on Us, camps, pubs and theme nights to the sales teams, with a fan score for the call lists and a community impact report for partners.

Growth Score

7/10

Biggest Opportunity

Group and partner-driven sales: a clear group hub plus warm lists from sweepstakes, First Match guests, camps, affiliates and partner employees.

Biggest Risk

Entertainment and corporate hospitality budgets in Cincinnati are shared with the Reds, the Bengals and other venues, and a long season change can slow renewals if members are unsure what they are buying.

01

Start here

The three moves to make first. Each one is written up in full below.

  1. 1

    Rebuild the group ticket hub before the new Group Ticketing AE starts calling: it is titled "FC Cincinnati" and its FAQ still talks about the 2025 schedule

    Fix the four group page titles and the 2025 FAQ answer today.

    High impact First result in 1 month
  2. 2

    Own titles and descriptions for the partner, About and sweepstakes pages, and the club name in every title

    List the 20 pages sales links to most.

    High impact First result in 2 weeks
  3. 3

    Show what each group size unlocks: a simple ladder from 10 tickets to the on-field experiences

    Agree the tiers with the group team.

    High impact First result in 1 month

02

Your idea portfolio

22 ideas, grouped by when to run them. Open any idea for how to run it: the steps, who to approach, copy you can use, and how to measure it.

  • 7 ideas are marked Unexpected: plays you are unlikely to have tried.

Every idea placed by the effort it takes against the impact it could have. Quick wins sit top left; select a number to open that idea. The filters below narrow the list by status, timing, category and what Programmable can build.

Effort vs impactEach number is an idea. Select one to open it.
Impact →
Quick wins · 4Big bets · 9Fill-ins · 7Reconsider · 2
Effort →

Showing 22 of 22 ideas

This week 6

Quick wins with a clear first action.

  • 01

    FC Cincinnati is hiring a Group Ticketing AE to make 60 to 80 calls a day to companies and youth soccer clubs. When those prospects look the club up, the group pages (hub, experiences, hospitality areas, FAQs) all have the page title "FC Cincinnati" and the homepage's description about news, scores and highlights, so in search results they read like the homepage. The FAQ still asks "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?", and none of the seven on-field experiences shows a price or minimum, only "Request Information". The page every call and email points to doesn't back up the pitch.

    High impactLow effort First result in 1 month Director

    First action

    Fix the four group page titles and the 2025 FAQ answer today.

    How to measure it

    Online group deposits

    Now
    –
    Target
    +40%
    By
    90 days

    Steps

    1. 1

      Fix titles

      Four group pages, club and stadium in each.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 hour

    2. 2

      Write descriptions

      One per page, with the 10-ticket minimum.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 hour

    3. 3

      Update the FAQ

      Next season's schedule and deposit timing.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 day

    4. 4

      Buyer sections

      Companies, youth clubs, schools, community groups, birthdays.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    5. 5

      Show "from" prices

      Per buyer type and per on-field experience.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    6. 6

      Short links

      One per buyer type for AE emails.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    7. 7

      Track

      Deposits and requests by link.

      Ticketing CRM Manager weekly

    First result
    1 month
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Director, Group Ticketing

    Smallest test

    Change the titles and FAQ this week and compare group requests for the next month.

    Why it works

    Give each group page a clear title and description ("Group Tickets and Corporate Outings | FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium"); update the FAQ for the next season; add sections for the main buyers (companies, youth clubs, schools, faith and community groups, birthdays) with "from" prices, minimum sizes and which experiences each size unlocks; and put "Place Your Deposit Online" next to each. Give the AEs a short link per buyer type to use in calls and emails.

    Group buyers decide on price and what the day will feel like. A current, specific page shortens the sales call, lets organisers sell the outing internally, and turns search traffic for "group outing Cincinnati" into deposits.

    Ready to use

    ChecklistGroup hub refresh

    [ ] Titles on /groups/, experiences, hospitality areas, FAQs
    [ ] Meta description on each
    [ ] FAQ updated for the next season
    [ ] Sections: companies, youth clubs, schools, community groups, birthdays
    [ ] "From" price and minimum for each
    [ ] On-field experiences: minimum tickets and ages
    [ ] Deposit button in each section
    [ ] Short link per buyer type for AE emails

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Prices change by match

      Show "from" prices and a range, updated each season.

    • League platform limits

      Use the page fields the club already sets on other pages, such as "Season Ticket Memberships".

    Evidence

    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
    • Your websiteThe group ticket pages (/groups/, /groups/group-experiences, /groups/hospitality-areas, /groups/faqs) all carry the page title "FC Cincinnati" and the homepage's default description, "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati." The hub says "Groups of 10 or more enjoy discounted ticket pricing, reserved seating blocks, and access to exclusive group experiences", with "Request Information" and "Place Your Deposit Online" buttons but no prices or group types (companies, youth teams, schools, churches, birthdays).Source
    • Your websiteGroup FAQ: "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?"; "Currently, we are seeing unprecedented demand for group tickets"; a deposit is "The purchase of 10 group tickets"; a deposit and "a minimum of 25 tickets will queue your group to be eligible for on-field experiences". Group Experiences lists seven on-field and photo options (Walkout Kids ages 5-12, Sideline Showcase, Flag Kids, Center Circle Kids, Half Time High Five Tunnel, Post Match Photo, Groups with Gary), each with only a "Request Information" button.Source
    • Your websitePage titles and descriptions (24 pages checked, October 22, 2026): the group pages, Partnerships page, partner list, About page and partner sweepstakes pages (TQL Rally & Reward, Allegiant) are titled only "FC Cincinnati" and reuse the homepage description "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati."; premium, ticketing and youth pages have their own descriptions, but their titles leave out the club and city ("Luxury Suites", "Loge Boxes", "Parking", "Tickets"). The sitemap (279 URLs) still lists /group-tickets/ URLs that redirect to /groups/, and pairs such as /college-ambassador and /collegeambassador.Source
    • Competitor researchRival group pages on the same league platform at least name the club in the title: Columbus Crew "Tickets | Columbus Crew", Nashville SC "Groups I NashvilleSC.com". In Cincinnati, group and hospitality budgets are also courted by the Reds, the Bengals and other venues.Source
  • 02

    The Partnerships page, partner list, About page and partner sweepstakes pages are titled only "FC Cincinnati" and reuse the homepage's news-and-scores description; premium pages have good descriptions but are titled "Luxury Suites" and "Loge Boxes" with no club or city. Search results then show generic or unbranded snippets for pages the sales and partnership teams send people to.

    High impactLow effort First result in 2 weeks Digital Marketing Manager

    First action

    List the 20 pages sales links to most.

    How to measure it

    Clicks to ticketing and premium pages

    Now
    –
    Target
    +20%
    By
    90 days

    Steps

    1. 1

      List pages

      Top 20 sales pages.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    2. 2

      Write titles

      Page, club, stadium.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    3. 3

      Write descriptions

      Offer and next step.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    4. 4

      Clean the sitemap

      Redirects and duplicates out.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    5. 5

      Rest of site

      Remaining pages.

      Digital Marketing Manager 2 weeks

    6. 6

      Measure

      Search Console clicks.

      Digital Marketing Manager monthly

    First result
    2 weeks
    Cost
    $0
    Owner
    Digital Marketing Manager

    Smallest test

    Fix the premium pages today.

    Why it works

    Write a title (page, club, stadium) for every ticketing, premium, group, partner and matchday page, and a page-specific description wherever the homepage text is reused, starting with the 20 pages sales and partnerships send people to. Remove redirecting and duplicate URLs from the sitemap.

    A few hours of copy makes every revenue page findable and clear when shared or searched.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Platform template overrides

      Check with the league platform team if a field doesn't save.

    Evidence

    • Your websitePage titles and descriptions (24 pages checked, October 22, 2026): the group pages, Partnerships page, partner list, About page and partner sweepstakes pages (TQL Rally & Reward, Allegiant) are titled only "FC Cincinnati" and reuse the homepage description "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati."; premium, ticketing and youth pages have their own descriptions, but their titles leave out the club and city ("Luxury Suites", "Loge Boxes", "Parking", "Tickets"). The sitemap (279 URLs) still lists /group-tickets/ URLs that redirect to /groups/, and pairs such as /college-ambassador and /collegeambassador.Source
    • Your websitePremium Hospitality lists ten spaces (Luxury Suites, Loge Boxes, The Speakeasy, altafiber Field Lounge, Tunnel Club, Bahl & Gaynor Pitch View, KMK Law Terrace, Cincinnatus Club, Prolink Legends Room, The Touchline), with "Book Now" buttons and a "Place 2027 Premium Hospitality Deposit" link; the Speakeasy is "a unique 2,000-square-foot, all-in-one venue" for "a business meeting or friendly gathering". Season tickets: "Select Your Seat for the 2027-28 Season".Source
    • HiringSr. Account Executive / Account Executive, Business Development (posted September 30, 2026, two hires, reporting to the Director, Premium Hospitality & Business Development): new business "across FC Cincinnati's full portfolio of ticketing and hospitality products, including season tickets, partial plans, premium hospitality, suites, and group experiences" through "consistent B2B and B2C prospecting".Source
  • 03

    The FAQ says 10 tickets get group pricing and 25 tickets plus a deposit queue a group for on-field experiences, but this is buried in answers. Group organisers decide on size, and a visible ladder encourages them to bring more people.

    High impactLow effort First result in 1 month Director

    First action

    Agree the tiers with the group team.

    How to measure it

    Average tickets per group

    Now
    –
    Target
    +15%
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      Set tiers

      Sizes and perks.

      Director, Group Ticketing 2 days

    2. 2

      Design the ladder

      One graphic.

      Digital Marketing Manager 2 days

    3. 3

      Add to hub

      With deposit buttons.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    4. 4

      Script it

      AE call and email lines.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 day

    5. 5

      Train

      Group team.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 day

    6. 6

      Measure

      Group size by tier.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    1 month
    Cost
    $0
    Owner
    Director, Group Ticketing

    Smallest test

    Use the ladder in one week of calls.

    Why it works

    Add a ladder to the hub: 10 tickets (group price, reserved block), 25 (eligible for Walkout Kids, Flag Kids and other on-field moments), larger sizes (scoreboard message, Groups with Gary photo, hospitality area). Use it in AE scripts.

    Showing the reward for each step nudges organisers up a tier, raising revenue per group.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Too many perks promised

      Cap on-field slots per match and say so.

    Builds on

    Evidence

    • Your websiteGroup FAQ: "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?"; "Currently, we are seeing unprecedented demand for group tickets"; a deposit is "The purchase of 10 group tickets"; a deposit and "a minimum of 25 tickets will queue your group to be eligible for on-field experiences". Group Experiences lists seven on-field and photo options (Walkout Kids ages 5-12, Sideline Showcase, Flag Kids, Center Circle Kids, Half Time High Five Tunnel, Post Match Photo, Groups with Gary), each with only a "Request Information" button.Source
    • Your websiteThe group ticket pages (/groups/, /groups/group-experiences, /groups/hospitality-areas, /groups/faqs) all carry the page title "FC Cincinnati" and the homepage's default description, "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati." The hub says "Groups of 10 or more enjoy discounted ticket pricing, reserved seating blocks, and access to exclusive group experiences", with "Request Information" and "Place Your Deposit Online" buttons but no prices or group types (companies, youth teams, schools, churches, birthdays).Source
    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
  • 04

    The Group Ticketing AE is asked to grow the youth soccer affiliate program, and the 12 affiliates already get "Exclusive ticket rates" and "In-match marketing opportunities". Clubs need something easy to pass on to parents.

    High impactLow effort First result in 1 month Youth Soccer Manager

    First action

    Build the kit for two affiliates.

    How to measure it

    Affiliate team-night tickets

    Now
    –
    Target
    2,000
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      Set rates

      Per club.

      Director, Group Ticketing 2 days

    2. 2

      Make links

      One per club.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 2 days

    3. 3

      Write the kit

      Email, post, flyer.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 week

    4. 4

      Send to clubs

      Via the coordinator.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing 1 week

    5. 5

      Report back

      Sales per club.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    6. 6

      Recognise

      Top club at a match.

      Youth Soccer Manager per season

    First result
    1 month
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Youth Soccer Manager

    Smallest test

    Launch with one affiliate.

    Why it works

    Give each affiliate a ready-to-send kit: a club-branded team-night link with its own rate, an email and social post for parents, the on-field experiences their players can earn, and a deadline. Report sales back to each club.

    Club coordinators reach hundreds of families at once, and a tracked link shows which clubs bring groups.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Clubs too busy

      Send everything ready to forward.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteYouth Soccer Club Affiliates: 12 affiliated clubs listed, from Lakota FC and Madeira FC to Hoosier FC, Indy Premier, West Virginia Futbol Club and Cuyahoga Valley Soccer Academy. Commercial benefits include "Exclusive ticket rates", "In-match marketing opportunities", "FCC Youth Affiliate kit sponsorship kickback" and "Placement on FCC Youth Affiliate webpage". The youth section also runs day and elite camps, clinics, Little Lions, small group training and a Club Partner Program.Source
    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
    • Your websiteGroup FAQ: "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?"; "Currently, we are seeing unprecedented demand for group tickets"; a deposit is "The purchase of 10 group tickets"; a deposit and "a minimum of 25 tickets will queue your group to be eligible for on-field experiences". Group Experiences lists seven on-field and photo options (Walkout Kids ages 5-12, Sideline Showcase, Flag Kids, Center Circle Kids, Half Time High Five Tunnel, Post Match Photo, Groups with Gary), each with only a "Request Information" button.Source
  • 05

    The Partnerships page leads with "Welcome To the Team! Here's our new FC Cincinnati Partners", and the newest is Mondelez, which started in July 2025. The partner list shows a handful of logos and "More Partners". Prospective sponsors look here first.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 2 weeks Director

    First action

    Update the "new partners" block.

    How to measure it

    Partnership inquiries

    Now
    –
    Target
    +30%
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Update news

      Recent partners and activations.

      Director, Partnership Marketing 2 days

    2. 2

      List all partners

      By category, in text.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    3. 3

      Link activations

      Sweepstakes and promotions.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    4. 4

      Add a path

      Inquiry form to sales.

      VP, Corporate Partnerships 1 day

    5. 5

      Titles

      Partner pages.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 hour

    6. 6

      Refresh

      Each month.

      Director, Partnership Marketing monthly

    First result
    2 weeks
    Cost
    $0
    Owner
    Director, Partnership Marketing

    Smallest test

    Rewrite the top block today.

    Why it works

    Show all current partners by category on the list page in text, add recent activations with results, link each partner's page (sweepstakes, promotions), and add a "Become a partner" path to the partnership sales team.

    A current partner page proves the club delivers for brands and helps the new Director show value to partners.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Partners want approval of copy

      Agree copy in each contract review.

    Evidence

    • Your websitePartnerships page: the newest item in "Welcome To the Team! Here's our new FC Cincinnati Partners" is Mondelez International, "a partnership that officially started in July 2025"; others are the University of Cincinnati as official university, altafiber (Official Internet Partner, with the renamed altafiber Field Lounge), a 5-year Hillman partnership for the West End, and ClarkDietrich; other named spaces include the Mercy Health Training Center and the Cintas Field Lounge. The partner list page shows only a few logos (Adidas, Allegiant Air, Continental Tire, First Financial Bank, SeatGeek, TQL) and "More Partners". Partner sweepstakes pages render only a heading in the page HTML; the Ohio 529 page ran to October 18, 2026 with a $10,000 college savings prize.Source
    • HiringDirector, Partnership Marketing (posted October 5, 2026, reports to the VP, Corporate Partnerships): leads partner "service, activation, implementation, and fulfillment"; evaluates "partnership performance, account health, asset utilization" through "mid-season reviews, and end-of-year business reviews"; oversees inventory including "signage, digital and social media, promotions, community initiatives, hospitality, tickets, suites, content"; finds "new revenue opportunities across existing partnerships"; Salesforce and KORE or SponsorCX experience.Source
    • Your websitePage titles and descriptions (24 pages checked, October 22, 2026): the group pages, Partnerships page, partner list, About page and partner sweepstakes pages (TQL Rally & Reward, Allegiant) are titled only "FC Cincinnati" and reuse the homepage description "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati."; premium, ticketing and youth pages have their own descriptions, but their titles leave out the club and city ("Luxury Suites", "Loge Boxes", "Parking", "Tickets"). The sitemap (279 URLs) still lists /group-tickets/ URLs that redirect to /groups/, and pairs such as /college-ambassador and /collegeambassador.Source
  • 06

    In Google's phone test the homepage takes 25 seconds to show its main content and downloads 16.8 MB, 6 MB of it from one ticketing widget. Real visitors load quickly but fail on layout shift (0.13) from the schedule strip.

    Medium impactMedium effort First result in 1 month Digital Marketing Manager

    First action

    List the third parties and their owners.

    How to measure it

    CLS at the 75th percentile

    Now
    –
    Target
    under 0.1
    By
    2 months

    Steps

    1. 1

      List scripts

      Owner and purpose.

      Digital Marketing Manager 2 days

    2. 2

      Remove unused

      Tools no one uses.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 week

    3. 3

      Defer the widget

      Load on click.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 week

    4. 4

      Fix the strip

      Reserve space.

      League platform team 2 weeks

    5. 5

      Re-test

      PageSpeed.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    6. 6

      Check field data

      After 28 days.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 month

    First result
    1 month
    Cost
    Developer time
    Owner
    Digital Marketing Manager

    Smallest test

    Defer the ticketing widget.

    Why it works

    Load the ticketing widget only when clicked or below the fold, reserve space for the schedule strip, and review the 32 third parties for tools no one uses. Work with the league platform team where templates are shared.

    Fans on phones at the stadium and on match days need the tickets and schedule fast.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Shared league templates

      Raise template fixes with the platform team.

    Evidence

    • Google PageSpeedHomepage on mobile: performance 31/100; in the lab the main content takes 25 s to appear, the page downloads 16.8 MB in 374 requests from 32 third parties (6 MB from one ticketing widget), with 5.2 s of blocking time and 22 console errors. Real visitors: loading (LCP 1.9 s) and responsiveness (INP 137 ms) pass, but layout shift (CLS 0.13, caused by the schedule strip) fails Core Web Vitals.Source

This quarter 11

The core plays for the next three months.

  • 07

    The Director of Partnership Marketing is measured on asset utilization, account health and renewals, with mid-season and end-of-year reviews. Partners renew on proof: entries, impressions, attendance and leads.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter Director

    First action

    Build a scorecard for one partner.

    How to measure it

    Renewal rate

    Now
    –
    Target
    90%
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      Pick metrics

      Per asset type.

      Partnership Solutions Manager 2 weeks

    2. 2

      Collect data

      From CRM, social and web.

      Partnership Solutions Manager 1 month

    3. 3

      Design the scorecard

      One page.

      Director, Partnership Marketing 2 weeks

    4. 4

      Mid-season review

      With each partner.

      Director, Partnership Marketing per season

    5. 5

      Year-end review

      With renewal offer.

      Director, Partnership Marketing per season

    6. 6

      Track renewals

      And upsells.

      VP, Corporate Partnerships per season

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Director, Partnership Marketing

    Smallest test

    Make one partner's scorecard.

    Why it works

    For each partner, collect activation data (sweepstakes entries and opt-ins, page visits, social reach, signage time, hospitality use, community events) into a one-page scorecard, shared mid-season and at year end with a renewal proposal.

    Partners that see their results renew and upsell; it also tells the club which assets to sell more of.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Data scattered across systems

      Start with five metrics that exist today.

    Evidence

    • HiringDirector, Partnership Marketing (posted October 5, 2026, reports to the VP, Corporate Partnerships): leads partner "service, activation, implementation, and fulfillment"; evaluates "partnership performance, account health, asset utilization" through "mid-season reviews, and end-of-year business reviews"; oversees inventory including "signage, digital and social media, promotions, community initiatives, hospitality, tickets, suites, content"; finds "new revenue opportunities across existing partnerships"; Salesforce and KORE or SponsorCX experience.Source
    • Your websitePartnerships page: the newest item in "Welcome To the Team! Here's our new FC Cincinnati Partners" is Mondelez International, "a partnership that officially started in July 2025"; others are the University of Cincinnati as official university, altafiber (Official Internet Partner, with the renamed altafiber Field Lounge), a 5-year Hillman partnership for the West End, and ClarkDietrich; other named spaces include the Mercy Health Training Center and the Cintas Field Lounge. The partner list page shows only a few logos (Adidas, Allegiant Air, Continental Tire, First Financial Bank, SeatGeek, TQL) and "More Partners". Partner sweepstakes pages render only a heading in the page HTML; the Ohio 529 page ran to October 18, 2026 with a $10,000 college savings prize.Source
    • ChannelsYouTube: 17,600 subscribers, 2,817 videos, 4.2 million views; the iOS app is rated 4.92 from 1,087 ratings; TikTok @fccincy; an email newsletter page.Source
  • 08

    Partner sweepstakes (TQL Rally & Reward, Allegiant, Ohio 529 with a $10,000 prize) collect thousands of fan entries. Entrants who opt in to club messages are warm leads for First Match on Us, ticket packs and groups.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter Ticketing CRM Manager

    First action

    Count opted-in entrants from the last sweepstake.

    How to measure it

    Entrants who buy tickets

    Now
    –
    Target
    5%
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Check consent

      Opt-in wording with partners and legal.

      Legal 1 week

    2. 2

      Tag entrants

      By sweepstake.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 1 week

    3. 3

      Offer sequence

      First match, packs, groups.

      Digital Marketing Manager 2 weeks

    4. 4

      Score leads

      Clicks and opens.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 2 weeks

    5. 5

      Hand to AEs

      Top leads.

      Sr. Account Executive, Business Development weekly

    6. 6

      Report

      Sales and partner value.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Ticketing CRM Manager

    Smallest test

    Send one offer to last sweepstake's opt-ins.

    Why it works

    Add a clear opt-in to club offers on each sweepstakes form, tag entrants by sweepstake, send non-ticket-holders a first-match or ticket-pack offer, and pass engaged ones to the business development AEs.

    It turns partner activations into ticket revenue as well as partner value, and gives AEs a warmer list than cold calls.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Consent and partner rules

      Only contact entrants who opted in to club messages.

    Evidence

    • Your websitePartnerships page: the newest item in "Welcome To the Team! Here's our new FC Cincinnati Partners" is Mondelez International, "a partnership that officially started in July 2025"; others are the University of Cincinnati as official university, altafiber (Official Internet Partner, with the renamed altafiber Field Lounge), a 5-year Hillman partnership for the West End, and ClarkDietrich; other named spaces include the Mercy Health Training Center and the Cintas Field Lounge. The partner list page shows only a few logos (Adidas, Allegiant Air, Continental Tire, First Financial Bank, SeatGeek, TQL) and "More Partners". Partner sweepstakes pages render only a heading in the page HTML; the Ohio 529 page ran to October 18, 2026 with a $10,000 college savings prize.Source
    • HiringSr. Account Executive / Account Executive, Business Development (posted September 30, 2026, two hires, reporting to the Director, Premium Hospitality & Business Development): new business "across FC Cincinnati's full portfolio of ticketing and hospitality products, including season tickets, partial plans, premium hospitality, suites, and group experiences" through "consistent B2B and B2C prospecting".Source
    • Your websiteFirst Match on Us, presented by First Financial Bank: people who have never attended a match at TQL Stadium can claim up to two free tickets through an interest form, with testimonials such as "We've recommended First Match on Us to a bunch of our friends!"Source
  • 09

    First Match on Us gives first-time fans two free tickets. The program's value depends on what happens after the first match.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter Ticketing CRM Manager

    First action

    Measure how many First Match guests bought again last season.

    How to measure it

    Repeat buyers

    Now
    –
    Target
    25%
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      Measure baseline

      Repeat purchase rate.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 1 week

    2. 2

      Write the sequence

      Three messages.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 week

    3. 3

      Offers

      Pack and group links.

      Sr. Account Executive, Business Development 1 week

    4. 4

      Flag repeaters

      For AEs.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 2 weeks

    5. 5

      Partner report

      Conversion to the presenting partner.

      Director, Partnership Marketing per season

    6. 6

      Optimise

      Test offers.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Ticketing CRM Manager

    Smallest test

    Send the follow-up after one match.

    Why it works

    Within a day of the match, send a thank-you with photos, a ticket pack offer and a "bring your group" link; a month later, a partial-plan offer; flag repeat visitors to the business development AEs. Report conversion to First Financial Bank as partner value.

    A first match is the best moment to sell the second, and conversion data strengthens the partner renewal.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Free fans don't pay

      Offer low-priced packs first.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteFirst Match on Us, presented by First Financial Bank: people who have never attended a match at TQL Stadium can claim up to two free tickets through an interest form, with testimonials such as "We've recommended First Match on Us to a bunch of our friends!"Source
    • HiringSr. Account Executive / Account Executive, Business Development (posted September 30, 2026, two hires, reporting to the Director, Premium Hospitality & Business Development): new business "across FC Cincinnati's full portfolio of ticketing and hospitality products, including season tickets, partial plans, premium hospitality, suites, and group experiences" through "consistent B2B and B2C prospecting".Source
    • HiringDirector, Partnership Marketing (posted October 5, 2026, reports to the VP, Corporate Partnerships): leads partner "service, activation, implementation, and fulfillment"; evaluates "partnership performance, account health, asset utilization" through "mid-season reviews, and end-of-year business reviews"; oversees inventory including "signage, digital and social media, promotions, community initiatives, hospitality, tickets, suites, content"; finds "new revenue opportunities across existing partnerships"; Salesforce and KORE or SponsorCX experience.Source
  • 10

    FC Cincinnati's partners include large local employers such as TQL, Mercy Health, altafiber, Hillman, Cintas and First Financial Bank. The Group Ticketing AE is asked to grow in the corporate community, and partners already trust the club.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter Account Executive

    First action

    Offer employee nights to three partners.

    How to measure it

    Partner employee tickets

    Now
    –
    Target
    3,000
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      Pick partners

      Largest local employers.

      Director, Partnership Marketing 1 week

    2. 2

      Design the offer

      Block, perks, link.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    3. 3

      Pitch to HR

      With the partner contact.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing 1 month

    4. 4

      Internal promotion

      Partner newsletters.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing ongoing

    5. 5

      Matchday

      Scoreboard and on-field moment.

      Director, Group Ticketing per match

    6. 6

      Report

      Tickets in the scorecard.

      Partnership Solutions Manager per season

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Account Executive, Group Ticketing

    Smallest test

    Run one employee night.

    Why it works

    Offer each partner an employee night: a discounted group block, a scoreboard welcome, an on-field moment for employees' kids and a link for internal newsletters. Count the tickets in the partner's scorecard.

    It adds group revenue from warm accounts and gives partners an activation their HR teams value.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Partners see it as a cost

      Price it as a benefit with no extra sponsorship fee.

    Evidence

    • Your websitePartnerships page: the newest item in "Welcome To the Team! Here's our new FC Cincinnati Partners" is Mondelez International, "a partnership that officially started in July 2025"; others are the University of Cincinnati as official university, altafiber (Official Internet Partner, with the renamed altafiber Field Lounge), a 5-year Hillman partnership for the West End, and ClarkDietrich; other named spaces include the Mercy Health Training Center and the Cintas Field Lounge. The partner list page shows only a few logos (Adidas, Allegiant Air, Continental Tire, First Financial Bank, SeatGeek, TQL) and "More Partners". Partner sweepstakes pages render only a heading in the page HTML; the Ohio 529 page ran to October 18, 2026 with a $10,000 college savings prize.Source
    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
    • Your websiteGroup FAQ: "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?"; "Currently, we are seeing unprecedented demand for group tickets"; a deposit is "The purchase of 10 group tickets"; a deposit and "a minimum of 25 tickets will queue your group to be eligible for on-field experiences". Group Experiences lists seven on-field and photo options (Walkout Kids ages 5-12, Sideline Showcase, Flag Kids, Center Circle Kids, Half Time High Five Tunnel, Post Match Photo, Groups with Gary), each with only a "Request Information" button.Source
  • 11

    The club lists pub partners in five areas (downtown, east, Kentucky, north, west). Pubs host supporters every match and know the regulars who organise outings.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter Director

    First action

    Pilot with two pub partners.

    How to measure it

    Pub-sourced group tickets

    Now
    –
    Target
    1,000
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      Pick pubs

      Two per area.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    2. 2

      Offer

      Ticket and pre-match gathering.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    3. 3

      Table cards

      QR to the group page.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 week

    4. 4

      Reward

      Per group booked.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    5. 5

      Feature

      Pub pages.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    6. 6

      Measure

      Bookings by pub.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Rewards and printing
    Owner
    Director, Group Ticketing

    Smallest test

    Pilot with one pub.

    Why it works

    Give each pub a group-trip offer (match ticket plus a pre-match gathering), a QR table card and a small reward per group booked. Feature the trips on the pub partner pages.

    Pubs reach fans who watch on TV but don't buy tickets, in their own neighbourhood.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Pub rules on promotions

      Agree terms in the pub partner agreement.

    Builds on

    Evidence

    • Your websiteCommunity and matchday: theme nights (Noche Latina, Pride, Salute to Service, Kids Day, Black Heritage, AAPI, Kick Cancer, Halloween, Fan Appreciation), pub partners in five areas (downtown, east, Kentucky, north, west), a College Ambassador program, a Foundation with mini-pitches and a soccer field grant program, community events (Golf Classic, Ladies Lace Up, Served by the Pros, Cleat Drive) and a scoreboard messages page.Source
    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
    • Your websiteThe group ticket pages (/groups/, /groups/group-experiences, /groups/hospitality-areas, /groups/faqs) all carry the page title "FC Cincinnati" and the homepage's default description, "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati." The hub says "Groups of 10 or more enjoy discounted ticket pricing, reserved seating blocks, and access to exclusive group experiences", with "Request Information" and "Place Your Deposit Online" buttons but no prices or group types (companies, youth teams, schools, churches, birthdays).Source
  • 12

    The club is already selling seats "for the 2027-28 Season" and taking 2027 premium hospitality deposits. A season that spans two calendar years raises questions about dates, billing and what a plan includes.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter Sr. Account Executive

    First action

    List the ten most common member questions this month.

    How to measure it

    Membership renewals

    Now
    –
    Target
    +5 points
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      Collect questions

      From the service team.

      Sr. Account Executive, Business Development 1 week

    2. 2

      Write the explainer

      Dates, billing, benefits.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 week

    3. 3

      Add an FAQ

      Season ticket page.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    4. 4

      Use in sales

      Appointments and emails.

      Sr. Account Executive, Business Development ongoing

    5. 5

      Update

      As the league confirms details.

      Digital Marketing Manager monthly

    6. 6

      Measure

      Renewals and questions.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Sr. Account Executive, Business Development

    Smallest test

    Publish the FAQ section.

    Why it works

    Publish a simple explainer page and FAQ: which matches a membership covers, payment timing, benefits and partial-plan options. Use it in Select-A-Seat appointments and AE emails, and track the questions that come in.

    Clear answers reduce hesitation for renewals and new members during a change.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Details not yet final

      Say what is known and when the rest will be confirmed.

    Evidence

    • Your websitePremium Hospitality lists ten spaces (Luxury Suites, Loge Boxes, The Speakeasy, altafiber Field Lounge, Tunnel Club, Bahl & Gaynor Pitch View, KMK Law Terrace, Cincinnatus Club, Prolink Legends Room, The Touchline), with "Book Now" buttons and a "Place 2027 Premium Hospitality Deposit" link; the Speakeasy is "a unique 2,000-square-foot, all-in-one venue" for "a business meeting or friendly gathering". Season tickets: "Select Your Seat for the 2027-28 Season".Source
    • HiringSr. Account Executive / Account Executive, Business Development (posted September 30, 2026, two hires, reporting to the Director, Premium Hospitality & Business Development): new business "across FC Cincinnati's full portfolio of ticketing and hospitality products, including season tickets, partial plans, premium hospitality, suites, and group experiences" through "consistent B2B and B2C prospecting".Source
    • Your websitePage titles and descriptions (24 pages checked, October 22, 2026): the group pages, Partnerships page, partner list, About page and partner sweepstakes pages (TQL Rally & Reward, Allegiant) are titled only "FC Cincinnati" and reuse the homepage description "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati."; premium, ticketing and youth pages have their own descriptions, but their titles leave out the club and city ("Luxury Suites", "Loge Boxes", "Parking", "Tickets"). The sitemap (279 URLs) still lists /group-tickets/ URLs that redirect to /groups/, and pairs such as /college-ambassador and /collegeambassador.Source
  • 13

    The club sells ten premium spaces, from Luxury Suites to the 2,000-square-foot Speakeasy for business meetings. Each has its own page, but buyers have to open them one by one to compare.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter Director

    First action

    Put capacity and price ranges for all ten spaces in one table.

    How to measure it

    Premium appointments from the site

    Now
    –
    Target
    +30%
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Build the table

      Capacity, price, includes.

      Director, Premium Hospitality & Business Development 1 week

    2. 2

      Design the finder

      Four questions.

      Digital Marketing Manager 2 weeks

    3. 3

      Build it

      On the premium hub.

      Digital Marketing Manager 2 weeks

    4. 4

      Book appointments

      To AEs.

      Sr. Account Executive, Business Development 1 week

    5. 5

      Train AEs

      Use the same table.

      Director, Premium Hospitality & Business Development 1 day

    6. 6

      Measure

      Appointments and closes.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Developer time
    Owner
    Director, Premium Hospitality & Business Development

    Smallest test

    Publish the comparison table.

    Why it works

    Add a finder to the premium hub (group size, budget, business meeting or social, seated or standing) that recommends two spaces with capacity, price range and what's included, and books an appointment with a business development AE.

    A clear comparison shortens the premium sale and helps companies justify the spend.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Price ranges vary by match

      Show "from" prices.

    Evidence

    • Your websitePremium Hospitality lists ten spaces (Luxury Suites, Loge Boxes, The Speakeasy, altafiber Field Lounge, Tunnel Club, Bahl & Gaynor Pitch View, KMK Law Terrace, Cincinnatus Club, Prolink Legends Room, The Touchline), with "Book Now" buttons and a "Place 2027 Premium Hospitality Deposit" link; the Speakeasy is "a unique 2,000-square-foot, all-in-one venue" for "a business meeting or friendly gathering". Season tickets: "Select Your Seat for the 2027-28 Season".Source
    • HiringSr. Account Executive / Account Executive, Business Development (posted September 30, 2026, two hires, reporting to the Director, Premium Hospitality & Business Development): new business "across FC Cincinnati's full portfolio of ticketing and hospitality products, including season tickets, partial plans, premium hospitality, suites, and group experiences" through "consistent B2B and B2C prospecting".Source
    • Your websitePage titles and descriptions (24 pages checked, October 22, 2026): the group pages, Partnerships page, partner list, About page and partner sweepstakes pages (TQL Rally & Reward, Allegiant) are titled only "FC Cincinnati" and reuse the homepage description "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati."; premium, ticketing and youth pages have their own descriptions, but their titles leave out the club and city ("Luxury Suites", "Loge Boxes", "Parking", "Tickets"). The sitemap (279 URLs) still lists /group-tickets/ URLs that redirect to /groups/, and pairs such as /college-ambassador and /collegeambassador.Source
  • 14

    The youth section runs day camps, elite camps, clinics, Little Lions and small group training. Those families already pay the club and have kids who love the team.

    Medium impactMedium effort First result in 2 quarters Youth Soccer Manager

    First action

    Count camp families who bought tickets last season.

    How to measure it

    Camp families with tickets

    Now
    –
    Target
    40%
    By
    2 seasons

    Steps

    1. 1

      Join data

      Camp and ticketing records.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 2 weeks

    2. 2

      Family offer

      Tickets and Kids Club.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing 1 week

    3. 3

      Camp match night

      On-field moment.

      Director, Group Ticketing per season

    4. 4

      Messages

      After camp ends.

      Digital Marketing Manager ongoing

    5. 5

      Coach handouts

      At camps.

      Youth Soccer Manager per camp

    6. 6

      Measure

      Purchases.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    2 quarters
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Youth Soccer Manager

    Smallest test

    Send the offer to one camp's families.

    Why it works

    Give every camp family a family ticket offer and a Kids Club invitation, invite camp groups to a match with an on-field moment, and add camp sign-ups to the ticketing CRM.

    Camp families are among the warmest buyers the club has, and kids drive repeat attendance.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Parents feel sold to

      Keep the offer to one message after camp.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteYouth Soccer Club Affiliates: 12 affiliated clubs listed, from Lakota FC and Madeira FC to Hoosier FC, Indy Premier, West Virginia Futbol Club and Cuyahoga Valley Soccer Academy. Commercial benefits include "Exclusive ticket rates", "In-match marketing opportunities", "FCC Youth Affiliate kit sponsorship kickback" and "Placement on FCC Youth Affiliate webpage". The youth section also runs day and elite camps, clinics, Little Lions, small group training and a Club Partner Program.Source
    • Your websiteGroup FAQ: "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?"; "Currently, we are seeing unprecedented demand for group tickets"; a deposit is "The purchase of 10 group tickets"; a deposit and "a minimum of 25 tickets will queue your group to be eligible for on-field experiences". Group Experiences lists seven on-field and photo options (Walkout Kids ages 5-12, Sideline Showcase, Flag Kids, Center Circle Kids, Half Time High Five Tunnel, Post Match Photo, Groups with Gary), each with only a "Request Information" button.Source
    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
  • 15

    The club runs theme nights including Noche Latina, Pride, Salute to Service, Black Heritage, AAPI, Kick Cancer and Kids Day. Each is a natural group outing for community organisations, employee groups and clubs.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter Account Executive

    First action

    List 20 organisations for two theme nights.

    How to measure it

    Group tickets on theme nights

    Now
    –
    Target
    +30%
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      List organisations

      Per theme night.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing 2 weeks

    2. 2

      Package

      Themed group offer.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    3. 3

      Page sections

      Group block on each theme page.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 week

    4. 4

      Outreach

      Calls and emails.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing ongoing

    5. 5

      Community partners

      With the Foundation.

      Community Relations Manager ongoing

    6. 6

      Measure

      Groups per night.

      Ticketing CRM Manager per match

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Account Executive, Group Ticketing

    Smallest test

    Package one theme night for groups.

    Why it works

    For each theme night, list relevant organisations (veterans' groups, Latino business associations, employee resource groups, health charities), offer a themed group package with a share of proceeds where fitting, and add a group section to each theme night page.

    Theme nights give organisers a reason to bring a group on a specific date.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Seen as exploiting causes

      Lead with community partners and give back where fitting.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteCommunity and matchday: theme nights (Noche Latina, Pride, Salute to Service, Kids Day, Black Heritage, AAPI, Kick Cancer, Halloween, Fan Appreciation), pub partners in five areas (downtown, east, Kentucky, north, west), a College Ambassador program, a Foundation with mini-pitches and a soccer field grant program, community events (Golf Classic, Ladies Lace Up, Served by the Pros, Cleat Drive) and a scoreboard messages page.Source
    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
    • Your websiteThe group ticket pages (/groups/, /groups/group-experiences, /groups/hospitality-areas, /groups/faqs) all carry the page title "FC Cincinnati" and the homepage's default description, "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati." The hub says "Groups of 10 or more enjoy discounted ticket pricing, reserved seating blocks, and access to exclusive group experiences", with "Request Information" and "Place Your Deposit Online" buttons but no prices or group types (companies, youth teams, schools, churches, birthdays).Source
  • 16

    The club has 17,600 YouTube subscribers, 2,817 videos and a TikTok account, and sells seven on-field group experiences. Families and coaches share these moments, but group sales pages show no photos or video of them.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter Social Media Manager

    First action

    Film two experiences at the next home match with groups.

    How to measure it

    Group requests from pages with video

    Now
    –
    Target
    +25%
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Plan clips

      Seven experiences.

      Social Media Manager 1 week

    2. 2

      Consent

      Parent permissions.

      Director, Group Ticketing per match

    3. 3

      Film

      Short vertical clips.

      Social Media Manager per match

    4. 4

      Add to pages

      Group hub and experiences.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 day

    5. 5

      AE emails

      Clip links.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing ongoing

    6. 6

      Measure

      Requests by page.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Production time
    Owner
    Social Media Manager

    Smallest test

    Post one walkout clip.

    Why it works

    Film short clips of each experience, add them to the group pages, and invite groups to share their post-match photos with a tag. Use the best clips in AE emails.

    Seeing a child walk out with the team sells the experience better than a description.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Filming children

      Use only clips with parent consent.

    Builds on

    Evidence

    • ChannelsYouTube: 17,600 subscribers, 2,817 videos, 4.2 million views; the iOS app is rated 4.92 from 1,087 ratings; TikTok @fccincy; an email newsletter page.Source
    • Your websiteGroup FAQ: "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?"; "Currently, we are seeing unprecedented demand for group tickets"; a deposit is "The purchase of 10 group tickets"; a deposit and "a minimum of 25 tickets will queue your group to be eligible for on-field experiences". Group Experiences lists seven on-field and photo options (Walkout Kids ages 5-12, Sideline Showcase, Flag Kids, Center Circle Kids, Half Time High Five Tunnel, Post Match Photo, Groups with Gary), each with only a "Request Information" button.Source
    • Your websiteThe group ticket pages (/groups/, /groups/group-experiences, /groups/hospitality-areas, /groups/faqs) all carry the page title "FC Cincinnati" and the homepage's default description, "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati." The hub says "Groups of 10 or more enjoy discounted ticket pricing, reserved seating blocks, and access to exclusive group experiences", with "Request Information" and "Place Your Deposit Online" buttons but no prices or group types (companies, youth teams, schools, churches, birthdays).Source
  • 17

    The club runs a College Ambassador program, and the University of Cincinnati is its official university. Students and student clubs are tomorrow's season ticket members.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter College Ambassador Program Ma…

    First action

    Give ambassadors tracked links.

    How to measure it

    Student tickets per term

    Now
    –
    Target
    1,500
    By
    2 terms

    Steps

    1. 1

      Links

      One per ambassador.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 1 week

    2. 2

      Offer

      Student group price.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    3. 3

      Campus night

      With UC.

      College Ambassador Program Manager per term

    4. 4

      Student orgs

      Outreach list.

      College Ambassador Program Manager 2 weeks

    5. 5

      Rewards

      For top ambassadors.

      College Ambassador Program Manager per term

    6. 6

      Measure

      Tickets by link.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Discounts
    Owner
    College Ambassador Program Manager

    Smallest test

    Run one campus night.

    Why it works

    Give each ambassador a tracked link for a student group offer, run a campus night per term with UC, and target student organisations (sports clubs, Greek life, international students).

    Students bring friends, and a cheap first habit becomes a paying fan later.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Low-price cannibalisation

      Limit to verified students.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteCommunity and matchday: theme nights (Noche Latina, Pride, Salute to Service, Kids Day, Black Heritage, AAPI, Kick Cancer, Halloween, Fan Appreciation), pub partners in five areas (downtown, east, Kentucky, north, west), a College Ambassador program, a Foundation with mini-pitches and a soccer field grant program, community events (Golf Classic, Ladies Lace Up, Served by the Pros, Cleat Drive) and a scoreboard messages page.Source
    • Your websitePartnerships page: the newest item in "Welcome To the Team! Here's our new FC Cincinnati Partners" is Mondelez International, "a partnership that officially started in July 2025"; others are the University of Cincinnati as official university, altafiber (Official Internet Partner, with the renamed altafiber Field Lounge), a 5-year Hillman partnership for the West End, and ClarkDietrich; other named spaces include the Mercy Health Training Center and the Cintas Field Lounge. The partner list page shows only a few logos (Adidas, Allegiant Air, Continental Tire, First Financial Bank, SeatGeek, TQL) and "More Partners". Partner sweepstakes pages render only a heading in the page HTML; the Ohio 529 page ran to October 18, 2026 with a $10,000 college savings prize.Source
    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source

Big bets 3

Larger plays that can change the trajectory.

  • 18

    Partners such as Hillman (a 5-year West End partnership) and altafiber sign up for community value as well as signage, and the club runs a Foundation, mini-pitches and a soccer field grant program. That impact is told in scattered news posts.

    High impactHigh effort First result in 3 quarters VP

    First action

    Collect last season's community numbers.

    How to measure it

    Community-led partnership revenue

    Now
    –
    Target
    +20%
    By
    2 seasons

    Steps

    1. 1

      Gather data

      Foundation and community.

      Foundation Director 1 month

    2. 2

      Partner credits

      Contributions by partner.

      Director, Partnership Marketing 2 weeks

    3. 3

      Write and design

      Report and web page.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 month

    4. 4

      Launch

      With partners.

      VP, Corporate Partnerships 1 month

    5. 5

      Use in pitches

      New and renewal deals.

      VP, Corporate Partnerships ongoing

    6. 6

      Repeat

      Every season.

      Director, Partnership Marketing yearly

    First result
    3 quarters
    Cost
    Design costs
    Owner
    VP, Corporate Partnerships

    Smallest test

    Publish one page of community numbers.

    Why it works

    Publish a yearly impact report: fields built, kids reached, grants, volunteer hours, with each partner's contribution. Use it in partner renewals and new partnership pitches.

    Companies increasingly buy sponsorship for community impact, and a report gives them something to show their boards.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Partners want different credit

      Agree wording in each review.

    Evidence

    • Your websitePartnerships page: the newest item in "Welcome To the Team! Here's our new FC Cincinnati Partners" is Mondelez International, "a partnership that officially started in July 2025"; others are the University of Cincinnati as official university, altafiber (Official Internet Partner, with the renamed altafiber Field Lounge), a 5-year Hillman partnership for the West End, and ClarkDietrich; other named spaces include the Mercy Health Training Center and the Cintas Field Lounge. The partner list page shows only a few logos (Adidas, Allegiant Air, Continental Tire, First Financial Bank, SeatGeek, TQL) and "More Partners". Partner sweepstakes pages render only a heading in the page HTML; the Ohio 529 page ran to October 18, 2026 with a $10,000 college savings prize.Source
    • Your websiteCommunity and matchday: theme nights (Noche Latina, Pride, Salute to Service, Kids Day, Black Heritage, AAPI, Kick Cancer, Halloween, Fan Appreciation), pub partners in five areas (downtown, east, Kentucky, north, west), a College Ambassador program, a Foundation with mini-pitches and a soccer field grant program, community events (Golf Classic, Ladies Lace Up, Served by the Pros, Cleat Drive) and a scoreboard messages page.Source
    • HiringDirector, Partnership Marketing (posted October 5, 2026, reports to the VP, Corporate Partnerships): leads partner "service, activation, implementation, and fulfillment"; evaluates "partnership performance, account health, asset utilization" through "mid-season reviews, and end-of-year business reviews"; oversees inventory including "signage, digital and social media, promotions, community initiatives, hospitality, tickets, suites, content"; finds "new revenue opportunities across existing partnerships"; Salesforce and KORE or SponsorCX experience.Source
  • 19

    The Group Ticketing AE makes 60 to 80 calls a day, and two business development AEs prospect B2B and B2C. The club has app users (4.92 stars from 1,087 ratings), newsletter subscribers, camp families, First Match guests and sweepstakes entrants, but these signals rarely reach the call list.

    High impactHigh effort First result in 3 quarters Ticketing CRM Manager

    First action

    Score last season's buyers and check which scores bought again.

    How to measure it

    Sales per 100 calls

    Now
    –
    Target
    +30%
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Map data

      Ticketing, app, email, camps.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 1 month

    2. 2

      Define the score

      Five signals.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 2 weeks

    3. 3

      Test it

      Against last season.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 2 weeks

    4. 4

      Sort call lists

      In the CRM.

      Ticketing CRM Manager 1 month

    5. 5

      Train AEs

      How to use it.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    6. 6

      Review

      Conversion by band.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    3 quarters
    Cost
    CRM time
    Owner
    Ticketing CRM Manager

    Smallest test

    Sort one AE's list by a simple recency score for a week.

    Why it works

    Combine ticketing, app, email, camp and sweepstakes data into a simple score (recency, spend, engagement, group or company signals) and sort each AE's daily list by it. Review conversion by score band each month.

    Calling the warmest people first raises sales per call without adding headcount.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Privacy rules

      Use only data fans agreed to share.

    Evidence

    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
    • HiringSr. Account Executive / Account Executive, Business Development (posted September 30, 2026, two hires, reporting to the Director, Premium Hospitality & Business Development): new business "across FC Cincinnati's full portfolio of ticketing and hospitality products, including season tickets, partial plans, premium hospitality, suites, and group experiences" through "consistent B2B and B2C prospecting".Source
    • ChannelsYouTube: 17,600 subscribers, 2,817 videos, 4.2 million views; the iOS app is rated 4.92 from 1,087 ratings; TikTok @fccincy; an email newsletter page.Source
    • Your websiteFirst Match on Us, presented by First Financial Bank: people who have never attended a match at TQL Stadium can claim up to two free tickets through an interest form, with testimonials such as "We've recommended First Match on Us to a bunch of our friends!"Source
  • 20

    The youth affiliates stretch from Indianapolis to West Virginia and the Cleveland area, hours from TQL Stadium. For them a match is a day trip that needs organising.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 3 quarters Director

    First action

    Ask three distant affiliates how many families would travel.

    How to measure it

    Tickets on regional trips

    Now
    –
    Target
    1,500
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      Survey clubs

      Interest and dates.

      Youth Soccer Manager 2 weeks

    2. 2

      Pick routes

      Two to start.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    3. 3

      Book coaches

      Transport partner.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 month

    4. 4

      Package

      Tickets, tour, meal.

      Director, Group Ticketing 2 weeks

    5. 5

      Sell

      Through clubs.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing 1 month

    6. 6

      Review

      Cost and repeat interest.

      Director, Group Ticketing per trip

    First result
    3 quarters
    Cost
    Transport costs
    Owner
    Director, Group Ticketing

    Smallest test

    Run one bus trip.

    Why it works

    Package regional trips: coach transport, group tickets, a pre-match stadium tour or on-field moment, and a meal, sold through affiliate clubs and regional fan groups. Start with two routes.

    Removing the travel hassle opens a region the club otherwise reaches only on TV.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Low fill on buses

      Require a minimum before booking.

    Builds on

    Evidence

    • Your websiteYouth Soccer Club Affiliates: 12 affiliated clubs listed, from Lakota FC and Madeira FC to Hoosier FC, Indy Premier, West Virginia Futbol Club and Cuyahoga Valley Soccer Academy. Commercial benefits include "Exclusive ticket rates", "In-match marketing opportunities", "FCC Youth Affiliate kit sponsorship kickback" and "Placement on FCC Youth Affiliate webpage". The youth section also runs day and elite camps, clinics, Little Lions, small group training and a Club Partner Program.Source
    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
    • Your websiteGroup FAQ: "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?"; "Currently, we are seeing unprecedented demand for group tickets"; a deposit is "The purchase of 10 group tickets"; a deposit and "a minimum of 25 tickets will queue your group to be eligible for on-field experiences". Group Experiences lists seven on-field and photo options (Walkout Kids ages 5-12, Sideline Showcase, Flag Kids, Center Circle Kids, Half Time High Five Tunnel, Post Match Photo, Groups with Gary), each with only a "Request Information" button.Source

Wildcards 2

Unexpected experiments, each with a cheap way to test it.

  • 21

    The mascot already appears in "Groups with Gary" photos and in the "FCC near you" program. A mascot visit is a memorable way to open a conversation with a company or school.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter Account Executive

    First action

    Offer visits to ten corporate prospects.

    How to measure it

    Close rate after a visit

    Now
    –
    Target
    50%
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Set rules

      Minimum group size.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    2. 2

      Book visits

      Prospect offices and schools.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing ongoing

    3. 3

      Visit kit

      Offer cards and QR.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 week

    4. 4

      Follow up

      Within a day.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing ongoing

    5. 5

      Share photos

      With the group leader.

      Social Media Manager ongoing

    6. 6

      Measure

      Close rate.

      Ticketing CRM Manager monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Mascot time
    Owner
    Account Executive, Group Ticketing

    Smallest test

    Book one office visit.

    Why it works

    Offer a short mascot visit to companies and schools that commit to a group outing of a set size, and use visits as prospecting events with a group offer on the spot.

    People remember the visit and the person who arranged it, and the photos travel internally.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Mascot schedule

      Limit to a few slots a month.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteGroup FAQ: "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?"; "Currently, we are seeing unprecedented demand for group tickets"; a deposit is "The purchase of 10 group tickets"; a deposit and "a minimum of 25 tickets will queue your group to be eligible for on-field experiences". Group Experiences lists seven on-field and photo options (Walkout Kids ages 5-12, Sideline Showcase, Flag Kids, Center Circle Kids, Half Time High Five Tunnel, Post Match Photo, Groups with Gary), each with only a "Request Information" button.Source
    • Your websiteCommunity and matchday: theme nights (Noche Latina, Pride, Salute to Service, Kids Day, Black Heritage, AAPI, Kick Cancer, Halloween, Fan Appreciation), pub partners in five areas (downtown, east, Kentucky, north, west), a College Ambassador program, a Foundation with mini-pitches and a soccer field grant program, community events (Golf Classic, Ladies Lace Up, Served by the Pros, Cleat Drive) and a scoreboard messages page.Source
    • HiringAccount Executive, Group Ticketing (posted October 14, 2026, reports to the Director, Group Ticketing): "generating new business through group ticket initiatives", "a 60-80 call per day volume", engaging "the Cincinnati corporate community", "developing strategies to strengthen connections in the Youth Soccer community", "Execute group sales fan experience packages on gamedays" and "Collaborate other departments on growth of youth Soccer affiliate program".Source
  • 22

    Every group outing has one organiser who does the selling for the club. The FAQ and hub speak to the group, not to that person.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter Director

    First action

    List last season's top 50 group leaders.

    How to measure it

    Group leaders who rebook

    Now
    –
    Target
    60%
    By
    1 season

    Steps

    1. 1

      Set perks

      By group size.

      Director, Group Ticketing 1 week

    2. 2

      Leader page

      Group status and perks.

      Digital Marketing Manager 1 month

    3. 3

      Scoreboard

      Leader shout-outs.

      Director, Group Ticketing per match

    4. 4

      Thank-you

      After each outing.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing ongoing

    5. 5

      Early rebook

      Before the season.

      Account Executive, Group Ticketing per season

    6. 6

      Measure

      Rebook rate.

      Ticketing CRM Manager per season

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Perk costs
    Owner
    Director, Group Ticketing

    Smallest test

    Call the top 20 leaders with a perk offer.

    Why it works

    Give organisers perks by group size (a free ticket per 20 sold, a scoreboard message, a signed item, early access next season) and a simple leader page to track their group. Ask top leaders to organise again before the season.

    Repeat group leaders are the cheapest source of group revenue.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Perks cost more than they bring

      Tie them to group size.

    Builds on

    Evidence

    • Your websiteGroup FAQ: "How do I purchase group tickets once the 2025 MLS Schedule is released?"; "Currently, we are seeing unprecedented demand for group tickets"; a deposit is "The purchase of 10 group tickets"; a deposit and "a minimum of 25 tickets will queue your group to be eligible for on-field experiences". Group Experiences lists seven on-field and photo options (Walkout Kids ages 5-12, Sideline Showcase, Flag Kids, Center Circle Kids, Half Time High Five Tunnel, Post Match Photo, Groups with Gary), each with only a "Request Information" button.Source
    • Your websiteCommunity and matchday: theme nights (Noche Latina, Pride, Salute to Service, Kids Day, Black Heritage, AAPI, Kick Cancer, Halloween, Fan Appreciation), pub partners in five areas (downtown, east, Kentucky, north, west), a College Ambassador program, a Foundation with mini-pitches and a soccer field grant program, community events (Golf Classic, Ladies Lace Up, Served by the Pros, Cleat Drive) and a scoreboard messages page.Source
    • Your websiteThe group ticket pages (/groups/, /groups/group-experiences, /groups/hospitality-areas, /groups/faqs) all carry the page title "FC Cincinnati" and the homepage's default description, "The latest news, scores, highlights and stats from FC Cincinnati." The hub says "Groups of 10 or more enjoy discounted ticket pricing, reserved seating blocks, and access to exclusive group experiences", with "Request Information" and "Place Your Deposit Online" buttons but no prices or group types (companies, youth teams, schools, churches, birthdays).Source
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See every playbook and website review

Independent research. Programmable wrote this playbook from public sources, as they stood on October 23, 2026, and cites them throughout. FC Cincinnati did not commission, review or endorse it, and Programmable is not affiliated with FC Cincinnati. Company and product names are trademarks of their owners, used only to identify them. The ideas are suggestions and opinion, not professional, legal or financial advice, and not statements about how FC Cincinnati runs its business.

Something wrong, or do you represent FC Cincinnati? Email [email protected] and we will correct it or take it down.

30/60/90 roadmap

What to focus on in each month, and the ideas that carry it.

  1. Days 1 to 306 ideas

    Group hub, titles and descriptions, the group size ladder, affiliate team-night kits, partner pages and homepage weight.

  2. Days 31 to 6013 ideas

    Partner scorecard, sweepstakes leads, First Match follow-up, partner employee nights, pub outposts, the 2027-28 explainer, hospitality finder, camp families, theme nights, social clips and student nights; mascot visits and group leader perks.

  3. Days 61 to 903 ideas

    Commit to the big bets: the community impact report, a fan score for call lists and regional bus trips.

The research behind the plan

3 research areas, each summarised in a few lines. Open any of them for the full detail.

Customers

What customers say

Customers value TQL Stadium's atmosphere. The most cited problem: knowing what a group or premium outing will cost.

  • A winning, community-rooted club
  • Planning a trip from outside the city
  • In their words: “The Orange and Blue”

Market

Competitive landscape

4 competitors compared: Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals, Columbus Crew and Other local venues.

  • Gap to exploit: Clear group pricing and experiences online
  • Cincinnati Reds: Different season and audience mix
  • Cincinnati Bengals: Few home dates

Hiring signals

FC Cincinnati is hiring to sell more groups, hospitality and partnerships.

  • Account Executive, Group Ticketing: Corporate and youth soccer group sales. Ideas 1, 3, 4, 10.
  • Sr. Account Executive / Account Executive, Business Development: Full ticket and hospitality portfolio, B2B and B2C. Ideas 2, 12, 13, 19.
  • Director, Partnership Marketing: Partner activation, asset utilization and renewals. Ideas 5, 7, 8, 18.

From the team that wrote this playbook

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