On Wednesday March 1, the SDSU SMBA ‘23 cohort ventured downtown to the home of baseball in San Diego, Petco Park. As part of an exclusive tour with Padres Guest Services employees Jenna Matsushita and Lindsey Cassidy, the students were able to see what is involved in putting together one of the most demanding sporting schedules and experiences for one of the most popular teams in Major League Baseball.
For season 2023, the San Diego Padres have already sold out season tickets, and are looking to have one of their biggest years yet. With new signings (both new and renewing contracts) the Padres are well placed to make a run deep into the year, with a major focus on winning the last game of the season. From a guest services side, there are numerous complexities that come with having the most popular sports ticket in town, and the class was able to gain insider knowledge of these tactics. From waiting lines for entry and exit, food and beverage strategy, ticket sales and premium seat packages, to in-game experience, transport control and local community integration, it was clear that the Padres have spent a lot of time to ensure that the fan experience is second to none.
As part of the tour, which included visits to locker rooms, dugouts, media centers and onto the field, SMBA students were also trained in the Padres secret shopper program, which helps the Padres front office evaluate all parts of the gameday experience, with a focus on excellence and constant improvement.
Thank you to the San Diego Padres, and particularly Jenna Matsushita and Lindsey Cassidy for taking the time to showcase America’s Number One Ballpark to the San Diego State University’s Sports MBA program!
