Franchise Notes

Ravens Continuing With Player- Driven Mentorship Program

In N.Y., William Rhoden reports the NFL Giants and Ravens have "instituted player-driven mentorship programs in which rookies are paired with a team of veterans." The idea is that the veterans "will shepherd young players through the minefield as if they were younger brothers or even sons." The program was "started last year by the Ravens, who paired rookies with eight selected veterans," and was the "result of a push from veterans who thought that player development needed to go further." The program was "so successful in Baltimore that a number of veterans volunteered this year and had to be turned down because there were not enough openings" (N.Y. TIMES, 7/24).

HEAT OF THE MOMENT: In Charlotte, Scott Fowler noted the NFL Panthers next week will unveil 14 billboards in the area to promote single-game ticket sales, which kick off August 1. The billboards "play off the NFL slogan of 'Own the Moment.'" The team "decided against featuring one particular player on the billboards, going instead with a team logo and a pair of Panther eyes." The team's season-ticket renewals this offseason are around 98%, which is "consistent with what they've been for the past six years" (CHARLOTTEOBSERVER.com, 7/21).

YOU'VE GOT MAIL: In St. Petersburg, Damian Cristodero reported the Lightning Thursday unveiled their new "interactive, internet-based marketing tool to fans via email." The e-brochure features Lightning coach Rick Tocchet, G Mike Smith, LW Ryan Malone and, "most importantly, the fan." The Lightning contracted Toronto-based Channel 1 Media to "provide the design and technical services to makes this interactive web-based initiative possible" (TAMPABAY.com, 7/23).

SOMETHING TO REMEMBER: In Minneapolis, Sid Hartman reports the T’Wolves reportedly lost $19M last year, and some stockholders “are a little nervous about the continuous losses” (Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE, 7/24).