Aundréa Cika Heschmeyer, President

For me, March is not just the anticipation of spring but also the excitement of one of my favorite sporting events. As many know, college basketball, particularly March Madness, holds a special place in my heart. I was a cheerleader (third from right), captivated by the fast-paced and electrifying atmosphere of the sport…and the boys in shorty shorts (come on, it was the 1980s!).

When my beloved alma mater, Alliance College, closed its doors a few years after my graduation, the tournament remained a way for me to stay connected to the spirit of college life, even as the picturesque campus grew quiet.

One of the defining figures in this experience was Coach Ted Haluch. His distinctive red sweater, his run-and-gun coaching style, and, yes, even his occasional bad temper echoed the legendary Bobby Knight of Indiana. It's fascinating how a coach's traits can leave a lasting impression, shaping not only the team's identity but also the fans' passion and commitment.

Now, what does my nostalgia have to do with marketing? College basketball also offers valuable lessons we can apply in our professional lives. Here are a few insights I've gleaned from the court:

Lesson #1: Embrace the Passion. March Madness is a testament to the power of passion. Watching players and coaches pour their hearts and souls into the game is truly inspiring. It reminds us that passion is a powerful fuel for success, whether on the court or in the boardroom.

Lesson #2: It takes Teamwork. No player on the court wins alone. It takes a united team to achieve victory, each member contributing unique strengths. This collaborative spirit is just as crucial in our marketing endeavors, where success hinges on collaboration and leveraging the expertise of each team member.

Lesson #3: Learning from the Greats. As I draw inspiration from Coach Haluch and Bobby Knight, entrepreneurs can learn valuable lessons from local and national giants in their fields. Take the time to find a mentor, listen to a podcast, and read industry publications, case studies, or relevant literature to learn continuously.

Lesson #4: Learn to Pivot. The best teams in March Madness are those who can adapt their strategies on the fly. They react to challenges, exploit weaknesses, and capitalize on opportunities. Similarly, businesses must be flexible and adaptable to navigate the ever-changing market landscape. 



Lesson #5: Never Give Up. Cinderellas rise, giants fall. March Madness is full of unexpected twists and turns. It demonstrates that even underdogs can achieve remarkable feats with perseverance and resilience. Setbacks will occur in business, but these moments can be opportunities to learn, adapt, and return stronger.

I've retired my pom-poms, but I continue to strive to embody Coach Haluch's passion and dedication to cultivating and inspiring the team. At MARQUEE, our team is comprised of individuals fervently devoted to marketing and committed to ensuring our clients thrive. We recognize the significance of delivering high-quality work, maintaining perseverance, and embracing adaptability. Collaboratively, we can assist your business in formulating winning marketing strategies, navigating challenges, and propelling us toward shared success.

Here's to a slam dunk for all of us!