The role of the athlete’s agent at IMG.

  Athletes can be regarded as “products” or “brands” that, with the right marketing strategy, can represent significant value. How would you describe the “brand” Sharapova? Answer this question by creating a list of 7 to 10 adjectives or phrases that describe Maria Sharapova’s key attributes and characteristics.   Describe the role of the athlete’s agent at IMG. What are an agent’s typical responsibilities? What specific things did Maria Sharapova’s agent, Max Eisenbud, do for her? What does Eisenbud do for IMG?   IMG creates value for two sets of customers – athletes and corporate clients. How is it organized to do so, or, to ask it differently, what roles at the company has IMG created for this purpose? Explain IMG’s marketing model and describe how it work As a result of her summer 2004 Wimbledon victory, Maria is offered a host of endorsement and appearance opportunities. What are the key considerations for Maria and Max in deciding which, if any, of the proposed deals to pursue? State your opinion on whether or not an endorsement deal with Motorola should be pursued, being sure to explain your thinking why or why not.