KANSAS CITY – The Kansas City Athletics have announced an exciting new partnership with the Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City (The J). This collaboration aims to enhance local youth programs, boost fan attendance and engagement, and provide special events and opportunities through the Roo Athletic Fund.
Dr. Brandon Martin, Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics, expressed the importance of this relationship, stating, “As Kansas City Athletics works towards a goal of intentional excellence, it is critically important that we build relationships with programs that exemplify excellence in the Kansas City community. The J has been a staple in the community for decades, and this relationship will allow both sides to strengthen their presence with the people that make Kansas City one of the best cities in the nation.”
The J is one of Kansas City’s largest community centers, offering a wide array of programs for all ages, with a strong emphasis on youth sports. This partnership will enhance The J’s offerings by incorporating Kansas City Athletics’ resources and expertise.
Bob Hennecke, Director of Sports and Recreation at The J, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “The Roos are a big part of Kansas City, and we are looking forward to hosting events with various teams as well as getting our participants more involved with our local Division One institution.”
This collaboration signifies a major advancement for both organizations, providing valuable resources and exciting experiences for the community. Opportunities for mutual co-marketing and special events will play a pivotal role in the success of both entities.
Jason Sautter, Manager of Sports and Recreation at The J and former Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach at Kansas City, remarked, “We think that this is a win-win situation for both The J and Kansas City Athletics. With over 13,000 members at The J, it’s a great situation for both sides. It gives our young kids a chance to form relationships with Division One level athletes and gives Kansas City Athletics access to our vast network of members.”
The relationship officially started in August with Kansas City Volleyball hosting a mini-clinic led by Head Coach Christi Posey and student-athletes. Kansas City Soccer is set to follow with mini-clinics in the spring, aimed at developing young athletes and offering resources to The J’s youth coaches. The Roos will also provide group ticketing rates for The J members, making it more accessible for them to attend local sports events.
Throughout the year, youth teams from The J will be showcased during Kansas City Athletics games, with chances for these teams to interact and form connections with Kansas City’s student-athletes. As basketball season nears, a special event featuring the Kansas City Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams will launch the new partnership.