Stacie Stern wears a number of hats within the Fantasy Sports Trade Association. As general manager of Head2Head Sports, she manages a growing fantasy sports business. As a member of the FSTA Board of Directors, she helps league the association’s direction in a time of tremendous growth in the industry. And as the chair of the 2015 Summer Conference Committee, she’s had a major role in shaping the conference on June 22-23 in New York City.
In the second of a two part interview, Stern discusses what’s new at this year’s FSTA Summer Conference, and on the appearance of NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum at the conference:
FSTA: What will the more experienced fantasy sports company get from the conference?
Stern: While it may sound simple, fantasy sports veterans really value networking. We see this in our membership surveys, and it is incredibly valuable for our attendees. I like to think that those of us who have been around fantasy sports for some time are greatly benefitted by seeing what’s next in this ever-changing industry.
FSTA: What’s new and important in this summer’s agenda?
Stern: There are so many things that I’m excited about, including our first ever hack-a-thon and Shark Tank panel. The growth in technology commands that we give some developers and engineers the opportunity to show us what they can do with open data and a great idea. For the startup who has developed that great idea, we’ll help them learn how to secure funding and provide insight into what investors are looking for.
The biggest achievement for this conference committee was securing a one-on-one interview with the Deputy Commissioner and COO of the NBA, Mark Tatum. His presence alone shows how much the fantasy sports industry has grown up. The fact that he would be willing to talk to us about the NBA/FanDuel deal and the NBA’s stance on gambling is of great significance to the fantasy sports industry.
FSTA: As general manager of Head2Head Sports, how will this year’s conference help your company?
Stern: As much as I enjoy seeing my friends in the industry for networking, the most important piece for me is the opportunity to create new patnerships. I have the ability to meet with industry colleagues face-to-face, and that can’t be replicated anywhere else.
FSTA: Conference attendees work hard, but they also enjoy each other’s company, even in a very competitive business. Talk about the importance of the social aspect of FSTA at this conference, and how it helps everyone conduct business more effectively.
Stern: I mentioned earlier that when we survey our members about what’s most important or most valuable to them – it’s always networking. In fact, our members are usually looking for more networking opportunities. Bringing the entire industry together in one location, in a more casual manner, allows for relationships to be built and enables attendees to get the deal done.
The 2015 FSTA Summer Conference is June 22-23 at the Crowne Plaza Times Square Hotel in New York City. Registration for this event is still open. To register, go to www.fstaconference.com.