INITIAL ENTRY

Baltimore, Maryland. A modest and diverse city of about 650,000 people. Home to the MLB team, the Baltimore Orioles, NFL team Baltimore Ravens, UnderArmour, and much more. I have lived here my whole life (21 years) and been thankful everyday. Growing up on the city/county line, I am two miles from 695 (the beltway loop that connects to 95) which is a hop, skip, and a jump away from Baltimore City. From the time I was young, I've attended Oriole baseball games, Blast soccer camps, and soaked up all sporting events the city has to offer. Coming to Hofstra and the New York area, I've noticed we (Marylanders) don't get as much credit and attention that we deserve. Maybe I'm bias? Maybe I have too much state pride? But I'm hoping that with the articles I will include in this blog, you too will understand Baltimore's place in sports and the athletic appeal we have to offer. Our city has projected some of the best athletes professional sports has ever seen: Cal Ripken Jr.*** In what's to come, I'll be focusing on:

• The Baltimore Ravens somewhat novel establishment and its effects on the city
• Camden Yards' uniqueness and revenue streams
• How Under Armour revolutionized the apparel industry and marketing mix
• Baltimore's vicinity with regards to other major cities and sports marketing appeals

Those four are my main focuses, but of course, if I see anything else interesting that pertains to the overall theme, I'll be sure to include it in my blog.