Innova was the presenting manufacturer for the 2021 OTB Open. This year, however, working alongside OTB Discs and the DGPT, MVP Disc Sports will take over where Innova left off.
It’s a move few saw coming, given 1) the success of last year’s OTB Open, the first year the San Francisco Open was known as such, and 2) Innova’s stronghold on the manufacturing scene.
During Wednesday’s episode of OTB’s official podcast, Jammin’ With the Best, reasons for the new partnership were discussed. OTB’s Aaron Rowley and Danny Corbett welcomed Sean Jack of the DGPT and tournament director Shawn Mercy into the studio for that exact purpose.
Jack, director of partnerships for the DGPT, made it clear that a number of manufacturers showed interest in working alongside the Pro Tour, as well as OTB in Stockton, Calif.
The biggest reason MVP won out?
For starters, they understand the business model and fit the bill nicely – noted Jack:
“OTB’s sponsorship of the OTB Open works as essentially a rev-share program. We have a guaranteed floor. But then we get to share in the profit of the discs that OTB sells. So the more discs that we can have access to, the more money we can make. And the more money we can make, the better we can make a kick-*ss experience for spectators and players.”
Next, and perhaps most important of all, the forward-thinking, Michigan-based manufacturer understands what Jack, Mercy and the entire OTB team are really wanting to accomplish with their feature event – a positive, professional experience for all involved. If you’ve been to a PGA event, that – but on a smaller scale. That goes for players, personnel and anyone in attendance.
To make this happen, money is needed – and lots of it.
Picture something Ledgestone-esque, but out in The Golden State:
- Live music.
- Elevated bleachers.
- Bathrooms, vending and a video wall.
- Trailers designated for media and staff.
- Player amenities, including a private tent, medical support, locker rooms, etc.
MVP gets it.
So much so, they’re offering up over 20,000 discs to be stamped with OTB-branding. This alone is estimated to bring in upwards of $150,000 to $200,000 for the event. Also, cash and credit to support the amateur event and access to limited-edition molds make raising money possible.
OTB and the DGPT want a top-notch, unforgettable experience …
MVP is helping them do just that.
And not just in 2022, either. According to Jack, the five-year goal is 5,000 fans at live Pro Tour events like the OTB Open. To put things in perspective, last year, Ledgestone and DGLO brought in around 2,000 fans each. It’s a lofty goal, but an attainable one, as well.
All across disc golf, things are getting bigger and better: the on-course product, event coverage, player contracts, gear, etc. With MVP in the mix, the 2022 OTB Open will certainly follow suit.
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