Beyond the Game: Athletes Taking the Lead in Business

Being an athlete today means more than just performing on the field. It means building a brand, a business, and a legacy.  Many athletes are becoming entrepreneurs, creators, and brand leaders.  They bring a fresh perspective to the corporate world, blending their personal brand with their unique business strategy.  This shift has become a major trend in sport marketing. Athletes now do more than just sign endorsement deals; they launch companies, invest in ownership stakes, and build their own personal brands.  By partnering with athletes, businesses show they are innovative and willing to embrace this new unique mix of marketing power and real-world authenticity.

The Boston Athlete Business Impact

Boston athletes are using their influence and creativity to make an impact beyond sports. 

Jerod Mayo x Hellman’s Mayo

Former Patriots Linebacker and Head Coach, Jerod Mayo, turned a simple endorsement deal with Hellman’s Mayo into a campaign with cause. He used his NFL background to raise awareness about food waste and promote sustainability, encouraging fans to “make taste, not waste”.  

In addition to brand partnerships, New England athletes. Patriots’ legend Tom Brady played in the NFL for over 20 years, thanks in large part to the TB12 Method. More than just a product line, TB12 is a lifestyle built around performance, recovery, and longevity. The brand reflects values Brady stood by throughout his career: dedication, consistency, and long-term health.

Ty Law, another Patriots legend, has made his mark in the business world with Corvus Vodka, his own line of vodka. Combining quality craftsmanship with his strong personal brand. Law’s business shows how athletes can successfully transition to ownership, using their name, network, and value to build something lasting. In 2023, Corvus Vodka was names the Official Vodka of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

How to Approach Athletes Properly

If your business is looking to work with an athlete, start by researching their values and brand and use trusted sports marketing firms like Blue Sky Sports & Entertainment to secure the athlete. Blue Sky has over 30 years of experience connecting New England athletes to the right brands. Most importantly, be prepared to offer real value, something that aligns with the athlete’s personal mission, brand, or goals. The best partnerships are always built on authenticity.