Former MiLB Executive Returns to Tennessee in New Capacity Representing MT Athletics
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Chuck Arnold, a seasoned sports marketer with deep ties to Tennessee, recently returned to the state as general manager for Blue Raider Sports Properties, the locally based Learfield IMG College team dedicated to serving Middle Tennessee Athletics.
Learfield IMG College represents the Blue Raiders and appointed Tennessee-native Arnold to manage its staff that works alongside MTSU Director of Athletics Chris Massaro and the entire athletics administration. Arnold brings extensive experience from his senior-level positions within Minor League Baseball. He served nearly 10 years with MLB’s St. Louis Cardinals’ Rookie Affiliate in Johnson City, Tenn. as general manager and before that, assistant general manager.
Most recently, he was with the Charlotte Knights in North Carolina serving as vice president of sales for the Chicago White Sox Triple-A Affiliate. He also was general manager for the Biloxi Shuckers, the Milwaukee Brewers Double-A Affiliate in Mississippi;and vice president of sales for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, the Minnesota Twins Double-A Affiliate in Florida. Arnold, a former student-athlete, played baseball for Milligan College in Tennessee. He earned his master’s degree from East Tennessee State University in Johnson City.
Blue Raider Sports Properties oversees the corporate partner platform, working with local, regional and national businesses looking to align with MT Athletics, and manages the comprehensive rights relationship which includes signage, digital, radio, hospitality and promotions.
“Chuck brings a wealth of experience and insight from his time in minor league baseball to our team at Middle Tennessee, and we’re proud to have him serving as general manager,” said Learfield IMG College Senior Vice President, Multi-Media Rights Pat Fagan. “He’s incredibly professional and knowledgeable about all aspects of the sports business, not to mention, already shares a deep passion and connection with the state of Tennessee.”
Learfield IMG College unlocks the value of college sports for brands and fans through an omnichannel platform. The company’s extensive commerce, experiential and media solutions create ultimate opportunities for fan engagement. The Learfield IMG College suite of services includes licensing and multimedia sponsorship management; publishing, broadcasting, digital and social media; ticket sales and professional concessions expertise; branding; campus-wide business and sponsorship development; and venue technology systems. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, the company has long had the privilege of being an advocate for intercollegiate athletics and the student-athlete experience. Since 2008, it has served as title sponsor for the acclaimed Learfield IMG College Directors’ Cup, supporting athletic departments across all divisions.