SPORTS & EVENTS
Eric Addeo
Sr. Dir., Experiential Marketing
Kelly Ballagh
Program Manager
Jason Bowen
Program Manager
Reese Bressler
Marketing Strategist
Ari Cooper
Account Coordinator
Joe Cortese
Program Manager
Haley Emory
Account Supervisor
Lauren Ettin
Account Supervisor
Abri Forrest
Account Manager
Carmen Garcia-Doncel
Account Director (Spain)
Jessica Gonzalez
Account Executive
Cyrus Heffernan
Account Supervisor
Dean Kelley
Program Manager
Cassie Kitchell
Senior Account Director
Abby Knaus
Account Coordinator
Andrew McCarthy
Group Account Director
Jeff Opalach
Account Director
Neal Skoy
Program Manager
Joey Spathis
Account Executive
David Trieglaff
Program Manager
Rachel Wright
Account Coordinator
Chuck Presto
Account Supervisor
Eric Addeo
Sr. Dir., Experiential Marketing
Eric Addeo
With over 20 years of experience in the sports and experiential marketing industry, Eric oversees TSMGI’s Experiential Marketing Division. Known for his ability to deliver complex, multi-channel brand experiences, Eric brings strategic insight and operational excellence to every facet of client engagement.
Throughout his career, Eric has developed and executed more than $100 million in strategic activation work for some of the world’s leading brands, including MillerCoors, Coca-Cola, Nike, Under Armour, Microsoft, Red Bull, Bacardi, Target, Hilton, Motorola, Kellogg’s and EA Sports among others. His expertise spans sponsorship management, event production, consumer engagement campaigns and hospitality programs across a wide spectrum of sports and entertainment platforms including NASCAR, IndyCar, NHRA, SuperCross, NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, PGA, MiLB, MMA, World Series of Poker, marathons, music festivals and major entertainment venues.
Eric’s recent work includes the development–from conception to execution–of expo exhibits for the Abbott World Marathon Majors and LIFE TIME Athletic Events; a 20+ city sampling tour for Abbott Ensure; and fan activations at more than 12 BIG TEN schools across the country in conjunction with Abbott and The BIG TEN’s “We Give Blood Drive.”
Prior to TSMGI, Eric held leadership roles at Edelman, Matter, rEvolution, commonground and GMR, earning several industry accolades for experiential work.
A graduate of the U.S. Army Medical School, Eric holds a degree in Emergency Medicine and began his career as a Paramedic/EMT—an experience that shaped his calm-under-pressure leadership style. He is also a Co-Chair of the Colors & Cords Concert Sponsorship Committee and is involved with Islands of Brilliance, a creative arts nonprofit.
What drives Eric most is connecting people to brands in real, authentic, face-to-face ways. Outside of work, he enjoys collecting art, playing golf and spending time immersed in creative culture.
Kelly Ballagh
Program Manager
Jason Bowen
Program Manager
Reese Bressler
Marketing Strategist
Reese Bressler
Reese is a dynamic and versatile contributor at TSMGI, known for his ability to wear multiple hats across the agency. From supporting major live activations to driving brand communications, Reese plays a key role in ensuring the success of programs for clients including McDonald’s, Wisconsin State Fair, Summerfest, the Chicago Street Race and so many others.
Graduating from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism with a focus on Sport Management, Reese brings both strategic insight and creative energy to every project. His sharp understanding of audience engagement makes him a valuable asset to TSMGI’s social efforts, where he helps enhance digital presence and amplify brand storytelling.
Outside of TSMGI, Reese applies his marketing expertise through consulting for brands and influencers, providing guidance on social media strategy and content development. He is also the owner of a successful DJ entertainment company in the Chicagoland area, delivering high-energy performances and production services for a wide variety of events.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Reese serves on the University of Illinois College of Applied Health Sciences Board of Visitors, staying connected to his alma mater and contributing to the growth of future industry professionals.
When he’s not working, you’ll likely find Reese listening to music, traveling or spending quality time with friends and family—always on the move and always creating something meaningful.
Ari Cooper
Account Coordinator
Ari Cooper
Ari joined TSMGI in 2024 through the Professional Development Program as an Associate Account Coordinator and quickly advanced into his current role supporting Abbott’s global sponsorship of the Abbott World Marathon Majors and the Abbott Real Madrid partnership. With a reputation for going above and beyond for both clients and colleagues, Ari brings a consistently positive outlook, a strong work ethic and a collaborative spirit to every project he touches.
A graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Ari has demonstrated remarkable tenacity and adaptability in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment. His eagerness to immerse himself in the industry has allowed him to contribute meaningfully across nearly all departments at TSMGI—giving him a comprehensive understanding of the agency’s operations and client relationships..
Outside of work, Ari is passionate about traveling and staying active. He enjoys playing pickup basketball, hitting the golf course and exploring new experiences whenever he gets the chance.
Joe Cortese
Program Manager
Haley Emory
Account Supervisor
Haley Emory
Haley joined TSMGI shortly after graduating from the University of Iowa in 2022, where she earned a degree in Marketing Management with a minor in Sports Management. No stranger to the agency, Haley previously completed a summer internship with TSMGI during her college years, making her transition into a full-time role a seamless one.
Now an Account Supervisor on the Sports Marketing team, Haley supports the Abbott World Marathon Majors and the Abbott-Real Madrid partnership, while occasionally lending her talents to McDonald’s programs as well. She thrives in the fast-paced, global nature of her work and enjoys the challenge of executing high-impact experiences. Haley values the opportunity to meet new people across the globe and contribute to programs that inspire and connect.
Outside of the office, Haley channels her continued love of soccer by playing recreationally and also enjoys running, spending time with her dog and friends and enjoying great movies and TV shows. She also loves a good nature walk!
Lauren Ettin
Account Supervisor
Lauren Ettin
With a career that spans over 15 years in sports and promotional marketing, Lauren brings seasoned expertise and infectious energy to TSMGI. Blending her passion for endurance events, highlighted by her status as a Six Star Finisher of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, she supports Abbott’s global sponsorship of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, infusing her work with both passion and knowledge.
Lauren began her professional journey in TSMGI’s Promotional Marketing division before transitioning to sports marketing, where she thrives on the dynamic nature of live events and the deep relationships she builds with clients and teammates. Her diverse background includes account management roles at Creative Promotional Products, Jack Nadel International, BDA, where she supported the NFL account and Global Sports Marketing. Throughout her career, she’s built a reputation for flawless execution, attention to detail and building strong relationships with both clients and teammates alike.
A graduate of the University of Iowa with a degree in Communications, Lauren now lives in Deerfield, IL, with her family. She’s the proud mom of two boys, and in addition to her passion for running, she is also a dedicated supporter of Cycle for Survival, marking 2025 as her 10th year of participation.
Whether she’s crossing a finish line, managing global events or planning the next big activation, Lauren excels in creating moments that matter—for both her clients and herself.
Abri Forrest
Account Manager
Abri Forrest
Abri joined TSMGI in 2024 as an Account Manager, where she supports key client initiatives for Abbott and the BIG TEN. With a strong foundation in sports operations and corporate partnerships, Abri thrives in fast-paced environments where she can bring strategy and logistics together to deliver impactful, live experiences.
A proud graduate of Western Kentucky University, Abri holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Sport and Fitness Administration/Management and a Master of Science. Her previous experience includes working in Corporate Partnerships with Learfield and in student-athlete support within collegiate athletics, giving her unique insight into both the business and human sides of sports marketing.
Always an avid sports fan, Abri is grateful for the opportunity of staying immersed in the sports industry and watching strategic plans come to life through the work she does.
Outside the office, Abri enjoys reading, attending concerts, traveling, working out, cooking and exploring new restaurants.
Carmen Garcia-Doncel
Account Director (Spain)
Carmen Garcia-Doncel
Carmen joined TSMGI in 2022 as a part of the Sports Marketing team, leading the agency’s efforts in Spain for Abbott’s global partnership with Real Madrid CF. With over a decade of experience in the sports marketing industry, she brings a wealth of expertise in brand strategy, sponsorship activation and global communications—all through the dynamic lens of sports and entertainment.
At TSMGI, Carmen thrives on the opportunity to collaborate with diverse teams across the globe and drive high-impact programs, particularly those aimed at youth development. Through the Abbott and Real Madrid Foundation partnership, she helps bring to life initiatives that inspire and empower young people, finding deep purpose in combining social impact with unforgettable brand experiences.
Having lived and worked in multiple countries, she brings a culturally rich and globally minded perspective to every project. Before joining TSMGI, she worked for You First Sports, where she guided brands in leveraging the power of sport to build authentic and meaningful connections with audiences.
A proud native of Spain, Carmen studied in Madrid and continues to call the city home. Away from work, she’s still a devoted Real Madrid fan (¡Hala Madrid!), a lover of history and travel and enjoys immersing herself in books, films, theater and discovering new restaurants.
Jessica Gonzalez
Account Executive
Jessica Gonzalez
JESSICA GONZALEZ, Account Executive
Jessica is an integral member of the Sports and Events Marketing team, playing a central role in supporting the Abbott–Real Madrid global partnership. With a strong foundation in sports management and marketing, Jessica brings enthusiasm, precision and a globally minded approach to her work, helping to craft and execute impactful brand experiences through thoughtful planning and seamless activation.
In addition to her client work, Jessica also leads TSMGI’s Professional Development Program, an initiative designed to provide recent college graduates with real-world professional experience in the Sports & Event Marketing industry.
A 2021 graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Jessica holds a degree in Recreation, Sport and Tourism, with a concentration in Sports Management. She deepened her marketing expertise by earning a Master’s degree in Marketing from DePaul University in 2023.
Prior to joining TSMGI, Jessica gained hands-on experience in marketing and event operations through roles with DePaul Athletics, the Chicago Cubs and the Windy City Thunderbolts, honing her ability to connect brands with fans and stakeholders in meaningful ways.
Outside the office, she enjoys attending sporting events, traveling and spending time with her family and friends—always seeking her next adventure or unforgettable game-day moment.
Cyrus Heffernan
Account Supervisor
Cyrus Heffernan
Cyrus joined TSMGI in 2022 as part of the Sports Marketing team focusing on Abbott’s global partnership with Real Madrid CF. With a strong international perspective and deep soccer expertise, Cyrus works to ensure the partnership’s success across the U.S., Spain and Abbott’s global network, including markets such as Vietnam, Australia and beyond.
Before joining TSMGI, Cyrus worked at C11 Marketing in Milwaukee, where he supported high-profile soccer clients including MLS/SUM and Concacaf, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the American soccer marketing landscape and the ability to build powerful brand integrations within the sport.
Cyrus holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and International Studies from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and an MBA in Sports Business from the University of Oregon’s Warsaw Sports Marketing Center. Prior to his marketing career, Cyrus lived and taught abroad in Turkey and Spain, experiences that enriched his global perspective and solidified his passion for soccer—ultimately driving his career path in the sport.
Originally from Madison, WI, Cyrus now resides in Pittsburgh, PA. Outside of work, he enjoys reading, traveling and attending live sports events. His passion for the global game continues to fuel his mission to help grow soccer in the U.S. through innovative and impactful brand partnerships.
Dean Kelley
Program Manager
Cassie Kitchell
Senior Account Director
Cassie Kitchell
Cassie joined TSMGI in 2016, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the Sports Marketing Motorsports team. Since then, she has led impactful initiatives for renowned brands such as Valvoline and Cummins, and currently spearheads Abbott’s global sponsorship of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—a role that allows her to contribute to milestone moments in the lives of countless Abbott employees worldwide.
With a degree in Sports Communication from Indiana University, Cassie began her career in sponsorship and relationship management with the Chicago Bears and Chicago Fire. There, she gained invaluable experience orchestrating sports and lifestyle events that supported both revenue growth and fan engagement.
Over the years, Cassie has played an integral role in numerous NASCAR sponsor programs, supporting brands like Bosch, AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts, AARP and ditech Home Loans. She also provides support across other client initiatives, including Abbott’s Real Madrid partnership, USG and others.
With a passion for bringing clients’ visions to life, Cassie thrives in an environment where no two days are the same. She is motivated by the dynamic nature of the industry and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through every project she touches.
Originally from Wheaton, IL, Cassie is an avid Indiana Hoosiers basketball fan (Go Hoosiers), loves tennis and travels whenever possible, exploring new cities with her husband. She cherishes time spent with her niece and nephew in Texas and unwinds at home with her two beloved kittens, Stosh and Louise.
Abby Knaus
Account Coordinator
Abby Knaus
Abby joined TSMGI in 2024 as part of the Professional Development Program and now serves as an Account Coordinator supporting programs for Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin, Johnson Controls and a range of corporate hospitality events. With a keen focus on problem-solving and client success, Abby thrives on helping brands bring their visions to life through thoughtful, well-executed experiences.
Abby is a graduate of Indiana University, where she earned a degree in Journalism with a concentration in Public Relations and Event Planning. Her academic background and natural organizational skills have helped her hit the ground running at TSMGI, where she enjoys tackling new challenges and ensuring client goals are achieved to the highest standard.
Prior to joining TSMGI, Abby gained experience with the Deerfield/Bannockburn/Riverwoods Chamber of Commerce, and continues to stay involved in the community through volunteer work with Hallie225.
Outside of work, Abby enjoys skiing, watching movies, spending time with family and friends and going on long walks—especially when the weather cooperates!
Andrew McCarthy
Group Account Director
Andrew McCarthy
Since joining TSMGI in 2017 as an Account Coordinator, Andrew has steadily grown into a key strategic leader within the Sports Marketing department. Now overseeing the direction and execution of several major client programs, Andrew brings a thoughtful and authentic approach to brand partnerships across a range of global and domestic platforms.
With a focus on enhancing brand exposure, internal engagement and corporate hospitality, Andrew has supported and led initiatives in global endurance sports, professional team sports (NBA, NFL, MLB) and golf. He currently manages programs for clients including Abbott, Cummins, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin and Johnson Controls—developing purpose-driven activations that align seamlessly with each brand’s identity and goals.
A 2014 graduate of Indiana University with a degree in Sport Marketing & Management, Andrew began his career with organizations including the Indiana Golf Foundation, Indiana Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Vivid Seats and Ball State University Athletics–all of which laid the foundation for his well-rounded perspective on both the fan and client sides of the sports industry.
Andrew is passionate about cultivating what he calls authentic partnerships—those that reflect a true alignment between a brand’s mission and the sports property it supports. Whether it’s a healthcare company helping runners live their healthiest lives, or a building services provider optimizing large sports venues for fans and environmental impact, Andrew believes TSMGI sets the industry standard for mutually beneficial collaborations.
A proud #GirlDad of three, Andrew lives in Indianapolis, IN with his wife and daughters. Outside of work, you’ll often find him on the golf course, cheering from the stands at live sporting events or contributing to his community as a Development Committee member for the Lawrence Township School Foundation.
Jeff Opalach
Account Director
Jeff Opalach
Jeff joined TSMGI in 2014, bringing over two decades of experience in sports marketing and communications—much of it rooted in the fast-paced world of motorsports. A lifelong racing enthusiast, Jeff has transformed his passion into a distinguished career, managing high-impact programs for some of the most recognized brands in the industry.
At TSMGI, Jeff plays a central role in managing the McDonald’s Motorsports account, where his strategic insight and operational excellence continue to elevate the brand’s NASCAR presence. He excels at solving the complex challenges that come with stewarding major brands in a high-profile, high-performance environment.
Before joining TSMGI, Jeff led motorsports and sponsorship initiatives for brands including 3M, Acxiom, Best Buy, Chevrolet, Computer Associates, Craftsman, Ford Motor Company, Sherwin-Williams, Sprint and Valvoline. His prior affiliations include Randy Moss Motorsports, Circle Bar Racing, Octagon Sports Marketing (on behalf of Sprint) and Greg Biffle Inc.
Jeff earned his degree in Public Relations from Western Michigan University. Originally from Dryden, Michigan, he now resides in Lancaster, South Carolina, with his wife Brooke, their daughter Bailey and their dog Chewy. Whether on the job or in his spare time, Jeff can be found watching motorsport racing of any kind—living out his lifelong dream of being immersed in the sport he loves.
Neal Skoy
Program Manager
Joey Spathis
Account Executive
Joey Spathis
Joey Spathis joined TSMGI in 2024, bringing a passion for sports, creativity and community-driven initiatives to the Sports Marketing team. Joey plays a key role in supporting Abbott and The Big Ten’s “We Give Blood Drive,” helping to create purpose-led programs that are authentic and impactful.
A proud graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Sports Management, Joey has built a foundation in the industry through a mix of sales, live event production and leadership. Prior to joining TSMGI, he held positions at Playfly Sports, CHGO Sports as a Live Stream Producer and Graphic Design Lead and served as Year-Round Associate Director for Camp Horseshoe—each role strengthening both client service and creative problem-solving skills.
Joey is inspired by the altruistic and community-focused impact of TSMGI’s work, and takes pride in supporting partnerships that connect brands with meaningful causes.
Originally from Highland Park, IL, and now living in Chicago, Joey enjoys watching sports, working out, cooking, reading, graphic design, content creation and spending time with friends and family.
David Trieglaff
Program Manager
Rachel Wright
Account Coordinator
Rachel Wright
Rachel began her career at TSMGI as the company’s first official participant in the Professional Development Program, where she quickly became a valuable contributor across multiple initiatives. Now a member of the Sports Marketing team, Rachel brings a dynamic mix of strategic thinking, creativity and event execution expertise to her role—creating high-impact experiences for clients and fans alike.
Primarily supporting McDonald’s motorsports partnership and Johnson Controls’ ticketing programs, Rachel also plays a key role in managing TSMGI’s Internship Program, offering mentorship and valuable insight into navigating the industry early on in one’s career. She is fueled by the energy of live events and finds great reward in watching the hard work behind the scenes translate into unforgettable moments for fans and clients.
A graduate of Illinois State University, Rachel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. Outside of the office, Rachel enjoys traveling, attending Cubs games and going to live concerts, always seeking out new experiences that fuel her passion for connecting with people and stories.
Chuck Presto
Account Supervisor
Chuck Presto
Chuck brings a passion for brand storytelling and sports marketing to his role at TSMGI, where he helps major brands bring their sports and event marketing initiatives to life. With a background rooted in both agency and brand-side strategy, Chuck is committed to crafting experiences that connect with audiences in meaningful, memorable ways.
Prior to joining TSMGI, Chuck gained valuable experience at top agencies including VML Chicago, Deutsch Los Angeles and Zambezi, LLC, where he worked with high-profile brands such as Abbott, Taco Bell and TaylorMade—delivering results-driven marketing campaigns that spanned sports, lifestyle and entertainment sectors.
He earned his degree in Consumer Affairs from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, combining a deep understanding of consumer behavior with a love for immersive brand activations.
Originally from Milwaukee, WI, Chuck now lives in Lake Bluff, IL where he enjoys hanging out with his dog, golfing, reading and swimming, which he has done for the majority of his life.