TESTIMONIALS

HEAR FROM PAST AND PRESENT CLIENTS OF COSMOS SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Curling Canada is excited to bring on Cosmos Sports to support curling’s most important events – the Scotties Tournament of Hearts, Montana’s Brier, and World Championships held in Canada! We are confident that Cosmos’ professional team will elevate our group and corporate ticket sales programs to new heights.
Andy Henry
Manager, Marketing & Tickets
"I am very proud that the Toronto Wolfpack franchise of which I was CEO for the first season was the most successful startup sports team in Toronto history. Our regular crowds of approximately 9,000+ per game were unparalleled. Cosmos Sports handled our ticket sales and sponsorship in that first year and did a spectacular job with tremendous results. I can say without question that they are the best third party sports sales company I have ever worked with. Any sports team would wise to hire Cosmos for their commercial needs. The investment is Cosmos is well warranted"
Toronto Wolf Pack
Eric Perez
Toronto Wolfpack
"Pickleball Ontario recently enlisted the services of Cosmos Sports & Entertainment to compile a report based on various opportunities for pickleball within Ontario. Throughout the entire process I found Cary and his team to be very thorough while compiling data, adhering to deliverables and meeting deadlines. It is also worth noting that I found the team at Cosmos to be well versed in their area of expertise. I do believe that their experience, resilience and passion was the main reason Pickleball Ontario's expectations were not only met but exceeded."
Junior Bent
Director-at-large, Marketing
"The team at Cosmos was fantastic to work with – very professional, well organized, and they were a huge help in achieving higher membership renewal numbers than ever before. After working with Cosmos we never want to go back to internally calling members again!"
Nicole Artuso
Manger, Member Services and Events, Tennis Canada
"We contracted the Cosmos Group to work on our behalf for a month. During their time they were able to secure roughly $450K in revenue for our club. The level of service combined with the detail they were able to provide us was impressive. If the need were to arise, I would not hesitate to contact the Cosmos group for additional sales/service support in the future"I highly recommend the Cosmos team for any of your marketing needs: websites, branding, social media, digital strategy, landing pages, video content, and their other services."
Derek Yeomans
Director of Ticket Sales and Service, Edmonton Elks
"The Cosmos team has been instrumental in helping us grow our MCR brand. They are very knowledgeable and excellent to work with and we have been pleased with the results. Specifically, Cosmos is great at listening to our needs, understanding our goals and working closely with us strategically and efficiently. I highly recommend the Cosmos team for any of your marketing needs: websites, branding, social media, digital strategy, landing pages, video content, and their other services."
Stuart Clark
Owner, Mac Clark Racing
"Cosmos Sports' team developed and executed an excellent digital campaign across all online platforms for the Toronto Six to maximize brand awareness and season memberships for our inaugural season in 2020 leading into the Lake Placid tournament. I would strongly recommend Cosmos to any sports organization for their sales, marketing and branding needs."
Digity Murphy
President, Toronto Six Hockey Club
“It has been a pleasure to work with Cary, Justin and the Cosmos Sports team as they have provided great leadership in selling out K-Days group tickets. From our first meeting, the Cosmos team was professional, energetic and provided valuable insight to guide our sales strategy and execute ticket sales. The team quickly caught on to our ticketing system and have become a strong asset to our team.”
Scott Sinclair
Director of Racing & Gaming, Northlands
“The team provided excellent service, helping us reach out effectively to our HPO family, and provided valuable information and guidance on moving forward with our marketing plans. As we move forward, it’s been helpful having the Cosmos team assist us with strategic direction given their insight into our audience base.”
Carol Kehoe
Executive Director, Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra
“Cary Kaplan of Cosmos Sports conducted a thought provoking training session for over 50 diverse NHL Club and League executives. The presentation, with a strong focus on how empowering employees and fans leads to dramatically increasing Club revenues, was very well received and had our entire Service & Retention group engaged. Having spent much of my career in the ticket sales industry, this was an effective presentation, consistent with our NHL ‘One Voice’ ticketing foundation. Cary was also open to different points of view based on unique market challenges. I recommend Cosmos Sports’ training to any team or league – it’s logical and addresses topical issues in our industry.”
Jeff Morander
Vice President - Ticketing Strategy, NHL
“After 3 days of training with Cary Kaplan, our sales staff is energized, re-focused, and we are confident that our revenues will increase dramatically as a direct result. The Cosmos Sports approach is both revolutionary and effective. It was an excellent financial investment for our team.”
Rob Zuer
Manager of Ticket Sales, Houston Rockets (NBA)
“After a 2 day session with Cary Kaplan, I can say with confidence that the training provided by Cosmos Sports will have a long-lasting impact on our sales executives and our organization. Cary’s sales and service philosophy, experience in the sports industry, and confident delivery of the content was very well received by our account executives. In two short weeks since the training, we have already seen some positive results from the tweaks made to our focus and delivery overall. We look forward to working with Cary and the Cosmos Sports group again in the future.”
Chris Atack
Manager of Sales, Ottawa Senators (NHL)
“Cosmos Sports provided the CCAA and its members the opportunity to critically analyze our game day operations and how we value our sports programs at the collegiate level here in Canada. Cary (Kaplan) and Bryan (McGahey) worked with our members to craft a customized presentation and package addressing the most prominent obstacles many athletic departments are encountering. Their thought provoking questions have given our members something to think about and they have provided potential marketing and revenue avenues to explore. Due to the degree of thought and effort that was put into their presentation and package, I would recommend Cosmos Sports for those seeking marketing services.”
Vince Amanto
Vice President - Programs, Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association
“Selling tickets to sports events is not complicated but it is by no means easy. Cary Kaplan and Cosmos Sports gave our team the necessary tactics and direction needed so that we can start posting some “W’s” in the sales game.”
Dave Jamieson
President, Edmonton Rush
“It was a pleasure having Cary provide his expertise related to his experience with so many different leagues and sports. The ATP World Tour, Tennis Americas tournaments really benefited from listening to his sales strategies and how they could apply them to their individual tournaments and markets.”
Linda J. Clark
Vice President - Tournament Relations Americas, ATP World Tour
“The Toronto Argonauts retained Cosmos Sports to recruit our Director of Ticket Sales their knowledge of the ticket industry is un-matched and certainly enhanced their ability to find quality candidates. They provided a full service approach including pre-screening, interviewing and evaluating all candidates and the end result was we were able to hire an excellent employee. We would strongly recommend their service to all other teams and sports organizations.”
Keith Pelley
President & CEO, Toronto Argonauts (CFL)
“On behalf of the AHL and the fifty-plus attendees at our Senior Executive Meetings, I want to commend Cosmos Sports for providing powerful and practical tools for increasing season ticket sales. Specifically, their seven retention principles will surely have teams renewing fans at a higher percentage this season. If you are looking to increase revenues, I highly recommend you call Cosmos Sports.”
Todd Frederickson
Vice President - Team & Business Services, AHL
“Cary Kaplan is a true industry expert and provided top notch training to help prepare my staff for best practices in their sales career. Many of the fundamentals will be used as a solid foundation and will stick with these reps as they continue to grow in the sports industry!”
Ian Winklmann
Manager of Inside Sales, Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
“Cary provided our staff with a fresh and different approach to handling renewal objections, obtaining meaningful data from our clients, and ultimately how to pitch the sale, in a polite, but persistent manner. The techniques learned were easily implemented and have already provided our department with positive results.”
Kyle Hudson
Account Experience Director, Pheonix Suns (NBA)
“It was a great benefit to our sales team to have Cary Kaplan of Cosmos Sports host a day-long training session to help educate and direct our sales team. The results have been positive with both stronger sales and better sales people resulting from his lessons.”
Dave Kay
Director of Business Development, Golf Canada
“Wherever I’ve gone I’ve always relied on Cary to keep me and my team thinking proactively and aggressively, and now I’m excited to be bringing that mentality to our trainees here. Cosmos Sports remains a go-to resource for me in the ticket sales world.”
Brett Zalaski
Director National Sales Center, (MLS)
“On behalf of Cosmos Sports, Cary Kaplan trained all our Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) teams. From entry level staff, to presidents, owners, and governors all attendees found tremendous value in the training. I am confident that by implementing just a few of the many suggestions provided, team revenues will increase dramatically. I would recommend Cosmos’ ‘business coaching’ for any sports league looking to grow its business.”
Jim Combs
President, Southern Professional Hockey League
“Cosmos Sports provided an extremely effective three day advanced training session. Our sales reps began implementing its techniques and saw immediate results. The one on one meetings with staff were particularly powerful. The ROI from Cosmos Sports’ training would be a home run for any team.”
Chad Bohm
Ticket Sales Manager, Indianapolis Indians
“100% of Cubs participants who attended Cary Kaplan’s training program found it to be a valuable use of their time.”
Andy Blackburn
Assistant Director Premier Sales & Service, Chicago Cubs (MLB)
“This training provided the Lancers with the adjustment needed for this organization to move in the right direction. The session and the content of training was thought provoking and yet so logical. Without this session, I am afraid that we would have taken a wrong turn as an organization.”
Ben Robert
President/Managing Partner, Omaha Lancers Hockey Club
“The USHL webinar was a tremendous success bringing needed training and motivation to our ticket sales staffs across the league. Cosmos Sports provided a terrific webinar in helping us to build a highly skilled and professional sales group across our sixteen cities. There is no substitute for providing continued expert training to the sales staff and Cosmos has the ability to deliver.”
Joe Macdonell
Vice President of Business Operations, United States Hockey League
“The Cosmos Sports training energized our organization and provided us not only with new ideas and concepts, but with a newfound sense of confidence.”
Dan Lehv
President, Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL)
“I was thrilled that Cary was able to join us at our Arena Football University conference this year. With every team and League executive in attendance, Arena Football University is geared towards revenue generating strategies. His creative presentation truly engaged our teams and executives. From marketing to branding and ticket sales to corporate sponsorship, Cary provided insight that is sure to have an immediate and positive impact for the AFL and it’s member teams.”
Jerry B. Kurz
Commissioner, Arena Football League (AFL
“Our ownership group was very happy with this investment into Cosmos Sports for our staff, and we would highly recommend them to any team regardless of experience of the sales staff. We have worked with a number of ticket trainers in the past, but Cary far surpassed any of the others. We implemented many of the strategies Cary explained. Overall our group sales numbers increased 28%, and we finished #2 in the Central Hockey League in total group sales while finishing 17th out of 18 in the standings on the ice. There is no doubt that it started with Cary’s sales training, and his continued training and support for me as a manager.”
Donald Thomson
Vice President of Sales, Laredo Bucks Hockey Club (CHL)
“Operating two hockey teams at different levels within the same city presents a wide array of challenges. Cary provided insightful, innovative and compelling ideas to approach the world of ticket sales. One week after spending some time with Cary we have implemented several new ideas as we venture to break away from the traditional model of ticket selling.”
Mike Franco
Manager of Sales, Calgary Flames (NHL)
“We found the training very educational and will be useful moving forward. There are a number of programs Cary discussed that we will implement in the near future that can positively affect our bottom line. Cary’s approach and experience within the industry allowed our entire staff to learn a lot about success within the ticketing world. I would recommend this to other NHL teams, especially those with multiple brands and teams.”
Scott Murray
Director of Ticket Sales & Fan Experience, Edmonton Oiler (NHL)
“As regular contributors on our league calls and training sessions, the Cosmos Sports team always gives cutting edge plans that are easy for our teams to follow and in turn make more money for them. Cosmos Sports has the right game plan!”
Bob Hoffman
Director of Operations, Central Hockey League
“Cary Kaplan did a great job with his presentation to the Bandits. His methods and approaches are very simple, but are often things overlooked, and we feel by implementing just a few of them, we will have our best season yet. The conference has excited our staff and we’re all ready to get to work putting some of the things we learned to use.”
Aaron M. Moore
General Manager, Chicago Bandits (NPF)
“The training session with Cary was tremendous. Not only did it re-energize and motivate our entire staff, but it also provided us with a number of great revenue-generating ideas which we can’t wait to implement here in Halifax.”
Brian Urquhart
Vice President, Business Operations, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)
“I believe we will see an increase in our ticket sales because of this Training Session and would recommend it to anyone who is in the ticket selling business.”
Paul MacDonald
President, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles (QMJHL)
“It was the best ticket training presentation that I’ve seen because it really made you think about how you do your business. I think every organization could take a number of things from Cary’s presentation and make their operation better.”
Elden Moberg
Assistant General Manager/Director of Operations, Swift Current Broncos (WHL)
“Cary Kaplan’s presentation, content, and industry perspective is second to none! He’s worked in the trenches and knows how to get results. Our sales team can’t wait to put his advice to the test.”
Greg Treble
Director of Business Operations, Edmonton Football Team (CFL)
“Cary’s presentation was outstanding. He provided many ideas that were unique but simple enough that teams could apply them to their business models right away. I had numerous team representatives comment how beneficial they felt the presentation was and how they believed that the concepts that were brought forward could help their business operations.”
Ian Ellis
Director of Marketing & Special Events, Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
“We are more than ever looking to the future and ready to face the challenges of our market. We recommend this training to all teams who wish to breathe new life into their ticket sales (season and individual) and their marketing approach. The whole staff of the Montreal Juniors Hockey Club has benefited from this enriching experience.”
Martin Routhier
President, Montreal Junior Hockey Club (QMJHL)
“Great selling ideas from Cosmos Sports! I highly recommend the Cosmos Solution to any sports organization large or small if they want to grow revenues.”
Steve Mazurak
Vice President - Sales & Marketing, Saskatchewan Roughriders (CFL)
“I would strongly recommend Cosmos Sports’ training for any major league sports organization looking to maximize revenues and impact the bottom line. The training session is a great investment for every franchise.”
Jerry Maslowsky
Vice President - Marketing, Winnipeg Blue Bombers (CFL)
“Cary Kaplan did an outstanding sales seminar for our organization. He customized our sales training so that it crossed over and, more importantly, applied to several different facets of the entertainment industry. Cosmos Sports delivered great concepts, content and tools that will help our staff increase their productivity.”
James Burlew
General Manager, Kalamazoo Wings (ECHL)
“Last winter Cary came to Gary to give a seminar to our staff on different ways we could increase ticket sales for the upcoming season. Cary was insightful and really opened the eyes of most of our staff members on simple ways to increase these sales. As a result we have enjoyed our biggest year-to-year increase in attendance during our five-year history. Cary and Cosmos Sports had a lot to do with that. I would recommend Cary and Cosmos Sports to any sports organization that is looking to push their staff into thinking in a different way about how to sell tickets. He helped us and I am sure he could help other organizations as well.”
Roger Wexelberg
Vice President/Genreal Manager, Gary Railcats Baseball Club (AA)
“Cosmos Sports’ one day seminar was an excellent opportunity for our staff to take a look at how we did things and get people motivated for the upcoming year. We plan on using the notes and discussions from that day as a reference point all throughout the next season.”
Mike Schline
General Manager, New Orleans Zephyrs Baseball (PCL)
“Cary shows you how you should be running your organization. If you get his training your inaugural year, you will not fall into the traps other teams do. I think it is an advantage because we can do it right the first time versus having to change things with risk of upsetting season seat holders down the road.”
Nathan Reilly
Director of Ticket Sales, Colorado 14ers Basketball (NBDL)
“Oklahoma City and Wichita had Cary Kaplan in Town on Wednesday for a one-day sales event. I highly recommend all teams utilize his skills prior to the start of the season. His presentation keyed in all the facets of ticket sales for every employee within the organization – from the intern all the way to the owner.”
Brad Lund
President, Oklahoma City Blazers (CHL)
“I’ve been a part of dozens of seminars over the years in my printing business and I can say that Cosmos Sports was the most productive I’ve ever attended…we believe that we will sell more than ever as a direct result of spending last Wednesday with Cary Kaplan.”
Keith Jeffries
President, Huntsville Havoc (SPHL)
“I wanted to let you know that for the investment, the effort was well worth it. It was especially helpful to our interns and new staff as an introduction to both how we have done things and where we can improve.”
Rob Rabenecker
General Manager, Jupiter Hammerheads (FSL)
“Thanks Cary, your info was great. I must tell you that we are implementing many of your ideas and giving a monthly instalment option as well. I also want to say that I have been through two years of other sales training camps and wanted to tell you that in the brief time that you spoke I got many more great ideas than in that time”
Doug Nelson
Director of Marketing & Ticket Sales, Johnstown Chiefs (ECHL)
“We had a really positive experience working with Cosmos Sports. The entire process caused us to think much more strategically about our packaging and approach for our varsity sports game day experience. As a result, we have identified important initiatives to strengthen revenues surrounding our home games. We have already experienced important returns for our investment and we can see clear opportunities to find more gains in the coming seasons.”
Pierre Arsenault
Director of Athletics & Recreation, Mount Allison University
“We were looking for professionals who could help us determine how to promote our athletics program at NAIT. Bryan and the rest of his team at Cosmos Sports did a great job to assist us in understanding our business. They shared their expertise and knowledge with our staff and provided us with hands-on ways to increase our attendance numbers and marketing profile.”
Linda A. Henderson
Director, Department of Athletics & Recreation, Nait University
“GoSportNet entered into a business relationship with Cosmos Sports in Feb 2012. Cosmos Sports developed a complete Marketing and Advertising strategy for GoSportNet as well provided 24/7 support & sales. Cosmos Sports has been instrumental in increasing GoSportNet’s brand awareness in amateur sports through increased Sports Management sales, relationships as well as social media. This has allowed us to partner and support amateur sports internationally, offering win-win partnerships that save cost, time and volunteers by empowering sports associations everywhere. We look forward to a continued working relationship with the team at Cosmos Sports.”
Fred Lof
President, GoSportNet.com
“I was quite impressed by the flexibility and readiness of the Cosmos Sports staffs to facilitate and moderate the interview processes at odd times and caused by the fact that interviewers were all over Canada and as far as Australia. It was important for us that all stake holders were present to interview the candidates and as such due to the time differences it was important that everyone including Cosmos had to accommodate and participate at times that were not convenient. Cosmos Sports were very accommodating and helpful to facilitate move the process forward.”
Ranjit Saini
President, Cricket Canada
“We’re confident the candidate we hired will be extremely successful; Cosmos played a huge role in building that confidence…If you are looking to hire, save yourself the hassle and let the professionals with Cosmos Sports Handle it!”
Matt Afinec
Vice President - Corporate Partnerships & New Stadium Business Development, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL)
“You understood our wants and needs and were able to recruit exactly the types of people that we have been looking for. I can say without hesitation that I wish I had called Cosmos Sports six months ago when I began the hiring process.”
Jeff Shinozaki
Chief Marketing Officer, GP8 Sportwear
“As a result of engaging Cosmos Sports in the hiring process, we had the opportunity to interview many qualified candidates and ultimately hired one of them. I will recommend Cosmos Sports services to other Major League Soccer teams and sports organizations.”
David Cope SVP
Business Development, D.C. United
“After exhausting all of our efforts and resources locally, we partnered with Cosmos Sports and within a short matter of time, we received several qualified candidates. Shortly thereafter we found a Top-Level candidate for the position. Cosmos Sports provided a simple and effortless hiring process along with bringing their vast knowledge of the ticket industry into the job search. We are very pleased with the results and recommend Cosmos Sports to any sport business looking to alleviate the work load caused by the hiring process.”
Justin Hart
Assistant GM/Director of Ticket Sales, Corpus Christi Sharks (AF2)
“They understood our needs and objectives and provided our Council with a wide range of quality candidates. From start to finish we are extremely pleased with the process and end result.”
Martin Vieira
Regional Development Manager, International Cricket Council
“I didn’t believe that these positions could be filled. Cosmos Sports has exceeded my expectations, providing our organization with two qualified executives. There is no way another firm could have provided a better service.”
Terry Britton
CFO, Calgary Roughnecks
“Cosmos Sports expertise and ability to screen and provide multiple elite candidates within the time requested made our searches effortless. It is simply the best placement service that we have ever seen in the sports industry; and we give it our highest recommendation.”
Johnny Mouradian
President, San Jose Stealth
“Building a professional, experienced and knowledgeable corporate partnership staff is of paramount importance as we seek to deliver upon the ambitious expectations of Grey Cup 2007 in Toronto. Cosmos Sports was a key strategic partner in screening qualified candidates and providing recommendations to the committee that ultimately resulted in several positive hires. We thank Cosmos for their commitment and support and look forward to utilizing their services again in the future.”
Matt Afinec
Director, Partnerships & Hospitality, Grey Cup 2007
“Tennis Canada was very pleased with the response we had from posting with Cosmos Sports. We were impressed more so with the quality of the respondents (with sport experience) than the overall quantity of replies. We will definitely choose to post with you again for other employment opportunities that may arise.”
Terri MacDonnell
Corporate Sales Coordinator, Tennis Canada
“Working with Cosmos Sports allowed us to target a key segment of our market that we wouldn’t have had the capacity to reach otherwise. Their professional management and sales staff represented our product and our brand very well while providing our customers with the high level of customer service.The incremental sales realized through Cosmos efforts were a key contributor to the success of our events in Toronto.”
Sandra Gage
Director Business Development, Canadian Soccer Association
“I’m working closely with Cosmos Sports for the Buffalo Bills in Toronto ticket sales campaign; Cosmos staff and management proved to be very professional, knowledgeable and had significant success in directly selling over $2 Million in tickets during the engagement. They represented our brand very well; and I would recommend their services in other similar ventures.”
Jim Edmands
Buffalo Bills in Toronto
“The Cosmos Sports team has been an extremely valuable addition to Carleton University’s Athletic department. Cosmos Sports has been a true extension of the Ravens brand, driving fans through their ticket sales campaign as well as establishing building blocks for relationships and partnerships for Carleton with various schools, community groups and local businesses. The partnership thus far has been a very successful one for Carleton University and we are thrilled to have Cosmos Sports continue to contribute to the growth and success of Carleton University Athletics.”
Sheryl Hunt
Manager of Marketing & Brand Development Athletics & Recreation, Carleton University
“Direct sales can be a powerful tool for an arts organization to expand its reach and develop stronger relationships with its client base, but the need for an expert sales and communication force to carry that message forward can make the prospect daunting. Cosmos Sports provided a team whose goals were our goals, whose voice was our voice and who executed a sales message while always providing our customers with the respect and excellent customer service that they have come to expect from Theatre Aquarius.”
Gregg Taylor
Marketing & Development Director, Theatre Aquarius
“The team provided excellent service, helping us reach out effectively to our HPO family, and provided valuable information and guidance on moving forward with our marketing plans. As we move forward, it’s been helpful having the Cosmos team assist us with strategic direction given their insight into our audience base.”
Carol Kehoe
Executive Director, Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra
“Cary Kaplan of Cosmos Sports conducted a thought provoking training session for over 50 diverse NHL Club and League executives. The presentation, with a strong focus on how empowering employees and fans leads to dramatically increasing Club revenues, was very well received and had our entire Service & Retention group engaged. Having spent much of my career in the ticket sales industry, this was an effective presentation, consistent with our NHL ‘One Voice’ ticketing foundation. Cary was also open to different points of view based on unique market challenges. I recommend Cosmos Sports’ training to any team or league – it’s logical and addresses topical issues in our industry.”
Jeff Morander
Vice President - Ticketing Strategy, NHL
“After 3 days of training with Cary Kaplan, our sales staff is energized, re-focused, and we are confident that our revenues will increase dramatically as a direct result. The Cosmos Sports approach is both revolutionary and effective. It was an excellent financial investment for our team.”
Rob Zuer
Manager of Ticket Sales, Houston Rockets (NBA)
“After a 2 day session with Cary Kaplan, I can say with confidence that the training provided by Cosmos Sports will have a long-lasting impact on our sales executives and our organization. Cary’s sales and service philosophy, experience in the sports industry, and confident delivery of the content was very well received by our account executives. In two short weeks since the training, we have already seen some positive results from the tweaks made to our focus and delivery overall. We look forward to working with Cary and the Cosmos Sports group again in the future.”
Chris Atack
Manager of Sales, Ottawa Senators (NHL)
“Cosmos Sports provided the CCAA and its members the opportunity to critically analyze our game day operations and how we value our sports programs at the collegiate level here in Canada. Cary (Kaplan) and Bryan (McGahey) worked with our members to craft a customized presentation and package addressing the most prominent obstacles many athletic departments are encountering. Their thought provoking questions have given our members something to think about and they have provided potential marketing and revenue avenues to explore. Due to the degree of thought and effort that was put into their presentation and package, I would recommend Cosmos Sports for those seeking marketing services.”
Vince Amanto
Vice President - Programs, Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association
“Selling tickets to sports events is not complicated but it is by no means easy. Cary Kaplan and Cosmos Sports gave our team the necessary tactics and direction needed so that we can start posting some “W’s” in the sales game.”
Dave Jamieson
President, Edmonton Rush
“It was a pleasure having Cary provide his expertise related to his experience with so many different leagues and sports. The ATP World Tour, Tennis Americas tournaments really benefited from listening to his sales strategies and how they could apply them to their individual tournaments and markets.”
Linda J. Clark
Vice President - Tournament Relations Americas, ATP World Tour
“The Toronto Argonauts retained Cosmos Sports to recruit our Director of Ticket Sales their knowledge of the ticket industry is un-matched and certainly enhanced their ability to find quality candidates. They provided a full service approach including pre-screening, interviewing and evaluating all candidates and the end result was we were able to hire an excellent employee. We would strongly recommend their service to all other teams and sports organizations.”
Keith Pelley
President & CEO, Toronto Argonauts (CFL)
“On behalf of the AHL and the fifty-plus attendees at our Senior Executive Meetings, I want to commend Cosmos Sports for providing powerful and practical tools for increasing season ticket sales. Specifically, their seven retention principles will surely have teams renewing fans at a higher percentage this season. If you are looking to increase revenues, I highly recommend you call Cosmos Sports.”
Todd Frederickson
Vice President - Team & Business Services, AHL
“Cary Kaplan is a true industry expert and provided top notch training to help prepare my staff for best practices in their sales career. Many of the fundamentals will be used as a solid foundation and will stick with these reps as they continue to grow in the sports industry!”
Ian Winklmann
Manager of Inside Sales, Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
“Cary provided our staff with a fresh and different approach to handling renewal objections, obtaining meaningful data from our clients, and ultimately how to pitch the sale, in a polite, but persistent manner. The techniques learned were easily implemented and have already provided our department with positive results.”
Kyle Hudson
Account Experience Director, Pheonix Suns (NBA)
“It was a great benefit to our sales team to have Cary Kaplan of Cosmos Sports host a day-long training session to help educate and direct our sales team. The results have been positive with both stronger sales and better sales people resulting from his lessons.”
Dave Kay
Director of Business Development, Golf Canada
“Wherever I’ve gone I’ve always relied on Cary to keep me and my team thinking proactively and aggressively, and now I’m excited to be bringing that mentality to our trainees here. Cosmos Sports remains a go-to resource for me in the ticket sales world.”
Brett Zalaski
Director National Sales Center, (MLS)
“On behalf of Cosmos Sports, Cary Kaplan trained all our Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) teams. From entry level staff, to presidents, owners, and governors all attendees found tremendous value in the training. I am confident that by implementing just a few of the many suggestions provided, team revenues will increase dramatically. I would recommend Cosmos’ ‘business coaching’ for any sports league looking to grow its business.”
Jim Combs
President, Southern Professional Hockey League
“Cosmos Sports provided an extremely effective three day advanced training session. Our sales reps began implementing its techniques and saw immediate results. The one on one meetings with staff were particularly powerful. The ROI from Cosmos Sports’ training would be a home run for any team.”
Chad Bohm
Ticket Sales Manager, Indianapolis Indians
“100% of Cubs participants who attended Cary Kaplan’s training program found it to be a valuable use of their time.”
Andy Blackburn
Assistant Director Premier Sales & Service, Chicago Cubs (MLB)
“This training provided the Lancers with the adjustment needed for this organization to move in the right direction. The session and the content of training was thought provoking and yet so logical. Without this session, I am afraid that we would have taken a wrong turn as an organization.”
Ben Robert
President/Managing Partner, Omaha Lancers Hockey Club
“The USHL webinar was a tremendous success bringing needed training and motivation to our ticket sales staffs across the league. Cosmos Sports provided a terrific webinar in helping us to build a highly skilled and professional sales group across our sixteen cities. There is no substitute for providing continued expert training to the sales staff and Cosmos has the ability to deliver.”
Joe Macdonell
Vice President of Business Operations, United States Hockey League
“The Cosmos Sports training energized our organization and provided us not only with new ideas and concepts, but with a newfound sense of confidence.”
Dan Lehv
President, Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL)
“I was thrilled that Cary was able to join us at our Arena Football University conference this year. With every team and League executive in attendance, Arena Football University is geared towards revenue generating strategies. His creative presentation truly engaged our teams and executives. From marketing to branding and ticket sales to corporate sponsorship, Cary provided insight that is sure to have an immediate and positive impact for the AFL and it’s member teams.”
Jerry B. Kurz
Commissioner, Arena Football League (AFL
“Our ownership group was very happy with this investment into Cosmos Sports for our staff, and we would highly recommend them to any team regardless of experience of the sales staff. We have worked with a number of ticket trainers in the past, but Cary far surpassed any of the others. We implemented many of the strategies Cary explained. Overall our group sales numbers increased 28%, and we finished #2 in the Central Hockey League in total group sales while finishing 17th out of 18 in the standings on the ice. There is no doubt that it started with Cary’s sales training, and his continued training and support for me as a manager.”
Donald Thomson
Vice President of Sales, Laredo Bucks Hockey Club (CHL)
“Operating two hockey teams at different levels within the same city presents a wide array of challenges. Cary provided insightful, innovative and compelling ideas to approach the world of ticket sales. One week after spending some time with Cary we have implemented several new ideas as we venture to break away from the traditional model of ticket selling.”
Mike Franco
Manager of Sales, Calgary Flames (NHL)
“We found the training very educational and will be useful moving forward. There are a number of programs Cary discussed that we will implement in the near future that can positively affect our bottom line. Cary’s approach and experience within the industry allowed our entire staff to learn a lot about success within the ticketing world. I would recommend this to other NHL teams, especially those with multiple brands and teams.”
Scott Murray
Director of Ticket Sales & Fan Experience, Edmonton Oiler (NHL)
“As regular contributors on our league calls and training sessions, the Cosmos Sports team always gives cutting edge plans that are easy for our teams to follow and in turn make more money for them. Cosmos Sports has the right game plan!”
Bob Hoffman
Director of Operations, Central Hockey League
“Cary Kaplan did a great job with his presentation to the Bandits. His methods and approaches are very simple, but are often things overlooked, and we feel by implementing just a few of them, we will have our best season yet. The conference has excited our staff and we’re all ready to get to work putting some of the things we learned to use.”
Aaron M. Moore
General Manager, Chicago Bandits (NPF)
“The training session with Cary was tremendous. Not only did it re-energize and motivate our entire staff, but it also provided us with a number of great revenue-generating ideas which we can’t wait to implement here in Halifax.”
Brian Urquhart
Vice President, Business Operations, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)
“I believe we will see an increase in our ticket sales because of this Training Session and would recommend it to anyone who is in the ticket selling business.”
Paul MacDonald
President, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles (QMJHL)
“It was the best ticket training presentation that I’ve seen because it really made you think about how you do your business. I think every organization could take a number of things from Cary’s presentation and make their operation better.”
Elden Moberg
Assistant General Manager/Director of Operations, Swift Current Broncos (WHL)
“Cary Kaplan’s presentation, content, and industry perspective is second to none! He’s worked in the trenches and knows how to get results. Our sales team can’t wait to put his advice to the test.”
Greg Treble
Director of Business Operations, Edmonton Football Team (CFL)
“Cary’s presentation was outstanding. He provided many ideas that were unique but simple enough that teams could apply them to their business models right away. I had numerous team representatives comment how beneficial they felt the presentation was and how they believed that the concepts that were brought forward could help their business operations.”
Ian Ellis
Director of Marketing & Special Events, Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
“We are more than ever looking to the future and ready to face the challenges of our market. We recommend this training to all teams who wish to breathe new life into their ticket sales (season and individual) and their marketing approach. The whole staff of the Montreal Juniors Hockey Club has benefited from this enriching experience.”
Martin Routhier
President, Montreal Junior Hockey Club (QMJHL)
“Great selling ideas from Cosmos Sports! I highly recommend the Cosmos Solution to any sports organization large or small if they want to grow revenues.”
Steve Mazurak
Vice President - Sales & Marketing, Saskatchewan Roughriders (CFL)
“I would strongly recommend Cosmos Sports’ training for any major league sports organization looking to maximize revenues and impact the bottom line. The training session is a great investment for every franchise.”
Jerry Maslowsky
Vice President - Marketing, Winnipeg Blue Bombers (CFL)
“Cary Kaplan did an outstanding sales seminar for our organization. He customized our sales training so that it crossed over and, more importantly, applied to several different facets of the entertainment industry. Cosmos Sports delivered great concepts, content and tools that will help our staff increase their productivity.”
James Burlew
General Manager, Kalamazoo Wings (ECHL)
“Last winter Cary came to Gary to give a seminar to our staff on different ways we could increase ticket sales for the upcoming season. Cary was insightful and really opened the eyes of most of our staff members on simple ways to increase these sales. As a result we have enjoyed our biggest year-to-year increase in attendance during our five-year history. Cary and Cosmos Sports had a lot to do with that. I would recommend Cary and Cosmos Sports to any sports organization that is looking to push their staff into thinking in a different way about how to sell tickets. He helped us and I am sure he could help other organizations as well.”
Roger Wexelberg
Vice President/Genreal Manager, Gary Railcats Baseball Club (AA)
“Cosmos Sports’ one day seminar was an excellent opportunity for our staff to take a look at how we did things and get people motivated for the upcoming year. We plan on using the notes and discussions from that day as a reference point all throughout the next season.”
Mike Schline
General Manager, New Orleans Zephyrs Baseball (PCL)
“Cary shows you how you should be running your organization. If you get his training your inaugural year, you will not fall into the traps other teams do. I think it is an advantage because we can do it right the first time versus having to change things with risk of upsetting season seat holders down the road.”
Nathan Reilly
Director of Ticket Sales, Colorado 14ers Basketball (NBDL)
“Oklahoma City and Wichita had Cary Kaplan in Town on Wednesday for a one-day sales event. I highly recommend all teams utilize his skills prior to the start of the season. His presentation keyed in all the facets of ticket sales for every employee within the organization – from the intern all the way to the owner.”
Brad Lund
President, Oklahoma City Blazers (CHL)
“I’ve been a part of dozens of seminars over the years in my printing business and I can say that Cosmos Sports was the most productive I’ve ever attended…we believe that we will sell more than ever as a direct result of spending last Wednesday with Cary Kaplan.”
Keith Jeffries
President, Huntsville Havoc (SPHL)
“I wanted to let you know that for the investment, the effort was well worth it. It was especially helpful to our interns and new staff as an introduction to both how we have done things and where we can improve.”
Rob Rabenecker
General Manager, Jupiter Hammerheads (FSL)
“Thanks Cary, your info was great. I must tell you that we are implementing many of your ideas and giving a monthly instalment option as well. I also want to say that I have been through two years of other sales training camps and wanted to tell you that in the brief time that you spoke I got many more great ideas than in that time”
Doug Nelson
Director of Marketing & Ticket Sales, Johnstown Chiefs (ECHL)
“We had a really positive experience working with Cosmos Sports. The entire process caused us to think much more strategically about our packaging and approach for our varsity sports game day experience. As a result, we have identified important initiatives to strengthen revenues surrounding our home games. We have already experienced important returns for our investment and we can see clear opportunities to find more gains in the coming seasons.”
Pierre Arsenault
Director of Athletics & Recreation, Mount Allison University
“We were looking for professionals who could help us determine how to promote our athletics program at NAIT. Bryan and the rest of his team at Cosmos Sports did a great job to assist us in understanding our business. They shared their expertise and knowledge with our staff and provided us with hands-on ways to increase our attendance numbers and marketing profile.”
Linda A. Henderson
Director, Department of Athletics & Recreation, Nait University
“GoSportNet entered into a business relationship with Cosmos Sports in Feb 2012. Cosmos Sports developed a complete Marketing and Advertising strategy for GoSportNet as well provided 24/7 support & sales. Cosmos Sports has been instrumental in increasing GoSportNet’s brand awareness in amateur sports through increased Sports Management sales, relationships as well as social media. This has allowed us to partner and support amateur sports internationally, offering win-win partnerships that save cost, time and volunteers by empowering sports associations everywhere. We look forward to a continued working relationship with the team at Cosmos Sports.”
Fred Lof
President, GoSportNet.com
“I was quite impressed by the flexibility and readiness of the Cosmos Sports staffs to facilitate and moderate the interview processes at odd times and caused by the fact that interviewers were all over Canada and as far as Australia. It was important for us that all stake holders were present to interview the candidates and as such due to the time differences it was important that everyone including Cosmos had to accommodate and participate at times that were not convenient. Cosmos Sports were very accommodating and helpful to facilitate move the process forward.”
Ranjit Saini
President, Cricket Canada
“We’re confident the candidate we hired will be extremely successful; Cosmos played a huge role in building that confidence…If you are looking to hire, save yourself the hassle and let the professionals with Cosmos Sports Handle it!”
Matt Afinec
Vice President - Corporate Partnerships & New Stadium Business Development, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL)
“You understood our wants and needs and were able to recruit exactly the types of people that we have been looking for. I can say without hesitation that I wish I had called Cosmos Sports six months ago when I began the hiring process.”
Jeff Shinozaki
Chief Marketing Officer, GP8 Sportwear
“As a result of engaging Cosmos Sports in the hiring process, we had the opportunity to interview many qualified candidates and ultimately hired one of them. I will recommend Cosmos Sports services to other Major League Soccer teams and sports organizations.”
David Cope SVP
Business Development, D.C. United
“After exhausting all of our efforts and resources locally, we partnered with Cosmos Sports and within a short matter of time, we received several qualified candidates. Shortly thereafter we found a Top-Level candidate for the position. Cosmos Sports provided a simple and effortless hiring process along with bringing their vast knowledge of the ticket industry into the job search. We are very pleased with the results and recommend Cosmos Sports to any sport business looking to alleviate the work load caused by the hiring process.”
Justin Hart
Assistant GM/Director of Ticket Sales, Corpus Christi Sharks (AF2)
“They understood our needs and objectives and provided our Council with a wide range of quality candidates. From start to finish we are extremely pleased with the process and end result.”
Martin Vieira
Regional Development Manager, International Cricket Council
“I didn’t believe that these positions could be filled. Cosmos Sports has exceeded my expectations, providing our organization with two qualified executives. There is no way another firm could have provided a better service.”
Terry Britton
CFO, Calgary Roughnecks
“Cosmos Sports expertise and ability to screen and provide multiple elite candidates within the time requested made our searches effortless. It is simply the best placement service that we have ever seen in the sports industry; and we give it our highest recommendation.”
Johnny Mouradian
President, San Jose Stealth
“Building a professional, experienced and knowledgeable corporate partnership staff is of paramount importance as we seek to deliver upon the ambitious expectations of Grey Cup 2007 in Toronto. Cosmos Sports was a key strategic partner in screening qualified candidates and providing recommendations to the committee that ultimately resulted in several positive hires. We thank Cosmos for their commitment and support and look forward to utilizing their services again in the future.”
Matt Afinec
Director, Partnerships & Hospitality, Grey Cup 2007
“Tennis Canada was very pleased with the response we had from posting with Cosmos Sports. We were impressed more so with the quality of the respondents (with sport experience) than the overall quantity of replies. We will definitely choose to post with you again for other employment opportunities that may arise.”
Terri MacDonnell
Corporate Sales Coordinator, Tennis Canada
“Working with Cosmos Sports allowed us to target a key segment of our market that we wouldn’t have had the capacity to reach otherwise. Their professional management and sales staff represented our product and our brand very well while providing our customers with the high level of customer service.The incremental sales realized through Cosmos efforts were a key contributor to the success of our events in Toronto.”
Sandra Gage
Director Business Development, Canadian Soccer Association
“I’m working closely with Cosmos Sports for the Buffalo Bills in Toronto ticket sales campaign; Cosmos staff and management proved to be very professional, knowledgeable and had significant success in directly selling over $2 Million in tickets during the engagement. They represented our brand very well; and I would recommend their services in other similar ventures.”
Jim Edmands
Buffalo Bills in Toronto
“The Cosmos Sports team has been an extremely valuable addition to Carleton University’s Athletic department. Cosmos Sports has been a true extension of the Ravens brand, driving fans through their ticket sales campaign as well as establishing building blocks for relationships and partnerships for Carleton with various schools, community groups and local businesses. The partnership thus far has been a very successful one for Carleton University and we are thrilled to have Cosmos Sports continue to contribute to the growth and success of Carleton University Athletics.”
Sheryl Hunt
Manager of Marketing & Brand Development Athletics & Recreation, Carleton University
“Direct sales can be a powerful tool for an arts organization to expand its reach and develop stronger relationships with its client base, but the need for an expert sales and communication force to carry that message forward can make the prospect daunting. Cosmos Sports provided a team whose goals were our goals, whose voice was our voice and who executed a sales message while always providing our customers with the respect and excellent customer service that they have come to expect from Theatre Aquarius.”
Gregg Taylor
Marketing & Development Director, Theatre Aquarius