How to get sponsored by BOB The Cooler Company

The biggest turnoff for sponsors is when athletes just send an email or DM saying 'sponsor me, here's my deck' with their hand out. Instead of immediately asking for sponsorship, athletes should first reach out to build a genuine relationship. Show authentic interest in the brand and product - buy the product, use it, talk about it, and share about it on social media. Brands, especially smaller ones, notice when people genuinely engage with their products. Come in being genuine about your interest in the brand before asking for anything.

For grassroots athletes without agents, the key is to adopt a 'crawl, walk, run' mentality. Understand that money won't fly at you immediately - you need to cut your teeth and put in the time and dues. Be persistent and keep reaching out, even being a 'pest' if necessary, but do it the right way. Don't give up when you hear 'not right now.' Focus on building relationships first and finding ways to provide value to the brand before expecting financial support.