About the Author

Hi, I’m Joe Rafanelli, and I’ve spent more than a decade in the world of college athletics, tackling everything from ticket sales and fan engagement to strategic planning and NIL programs. These days, I’m the Senior Associate Athletic Director at Old Dominion University, where I work with an incredible team to find creative ways to grow revenue, build better fan experiences, and navigate the ever-evolving challenges of college sports.

But let’s be real—life in college athletics is a nonstop hustle. Between juggling budgets, marketing strategies, and compliance rules, it’s easy to feel like there’s not enough time in the day. That’s where my passion for AI comes in. I’ve seen firsthand how smart tools and technology can take some of the weight off our shoulders, helping us focus on what really matters—like supporting our teams, our fans, and even carving out a little more time for ourselves.

Outside of work, I’m just a guy who loves traveling with my wife, Jackie, and our adventurous pup, Aria. Whether it’s exploring trails, soaking up the outdoors, or hunting for the best food spots, we’re always looking for our next adventure. I grew up in Rhode Island, so my love for the Patriots, Celtics, and Red Sox runs deep—don’t be surprised if a sports analogy sneaks into a post or two!

This blog is my way of sharing what I’ve learned (and am still learning) about blending technology with the business of athletics. Whether you’re here to discover new tools, save time, or just commiserate about the chaos of game day, I hope you’ll find something useful. Let’s figure this out together!

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