What I Learned Spending an Afternoon with a Bunch of Savannah Bananas

 If you have a child between the ages of 6-12 who loves baseball, you've probably heard of the Savannah Bananas . This team has taken North America by storm, with every game sold out as they continue their world tour. My family was lucky enough to get tickets (it’s as hard as seeing Swifty herself) to attend a Savannah Bananas Buffalo game this past weekend, and it was an unforgettable experience, not just as a baseball fan, but as a marketing professional. Here's a glimpse into their incredible story and the brilliant marketing strategies behind their success.

Who Are the Bananas?

The Savannah Bananas are not your typical baseball team. Known for their wacky antics, choreographed dances, and constant crowd interaction, their games are about providing a fun, memorable experience for everyone in attendance. Each game is filled with surprises. From the "Banana Nanas" dance team to the "Man-Nanas" (male cheerleaders), the Bananas create an atmosphere that is both entertaining and engaging. They have unique rules, such as the "Two-hour Time Limit" and "Fans' Choice," which allows fans to vote on certain aspects of the game in real-time. These innovations keep the games fast-paced and exciting. 

The players themselves are part of the show. They engage with fans, sign autographs, and even dance on the field. Each player has their own social media following, adding to the personal connection with fans. This level of engagement is a big part of what makes the Savannah Bananas so special.

The Savannah Bananas Backstory

The Savannah Bananas were founded in 2016 by Jesse Cole and his wife, Emily. But their journey to success wasn't easy. When Jesse and Emily first took over the struggling Gastonia Grizzlies and later the Savannah Sand Gnats, the teams were facing financial difficulties and dismal attendance. The Sand Gnats, in particular, were on the brink of collapse, with the stadium in need of repair and the community showing little interest in the team.

Jesse, known for his distinctive yellow tuxedo, envisioned a baseball team that was more than just a sports team. He wanted to create an experience, something that would captivate audiences and keep them coming back for more. With a focus on entertainment, fan engagement, and a bit of quirky fun, Jesse and Emily decided to rebrand and completely transform the team's image.

They poured their savings into the venture, even going so far as to sell their house and live on an air mattress. They faced skepticism from the community and the media, but they persisted. Their big break came when they hosted a “Name the Team” contest, which led to the quirky and unforgettable name: the Savannah Bananas.

Despite the initial financial struggles, the Savannah Bananas quickly became a sensation. Jesse and Emily’s dedication, creativity, and willingness to take risks paid off. They focused on creating a unique and unforgettable fan experience, turning every game into a spectacle.

Jesse Cole: The Showman

Jesse Cole is extremely involved in every aspect of the game. He’s not just the owner; he's one of the main announcers throughout the show. His enthusiasm and charisma are infectious, and he plays a crucial role in making each game a memorable event. From dancing on the field to engaging with fans, Jesse embodies the spirit of the Savannah Bananas.
In the marketing world, the Savannah Bananas are a case study in excellence. They have vowed to embody the Five E’s that guide their strategy:

• Eliminate Friction: Make the experience as seamless as possible for fans. From ticket purchasing to entry, everything is designed to be hassle-free.
  
• Entertain Always: Every moment is filled with entertainment. Even when waiting in line for three hours before the doors opened, the crowd was entertained with games, music, and performances.
• Experiment Constantly: They are always trying new things. Whether it's introducing new on-field antics or interactive fan games, they keep the experience fresh.
• Engage Deeply: The players and staff interact with fans on a personal level. Each player has their own social media following, and they frequently engage with their audience.
• Empower Fans: The fans are the heart of the Savannah Bananas. They are encouraged to be part of the show, from participating in the famous "Baby Race" to dancing on the field.

My Experience: A Marketer's Dream

Walking into the stadium, the excitement was palpable. We arrived three hours before the game, and the entertainment started right away. The Bananas staff worked tirelessly to keep the crowd entertained outside the stadium, with games, challenges, and live music. This seamless engagement set the tone for the evening.

Once inside, the atmosphere was electric. My kids were thrilled, and their faces lit up with every new activity. From interacting with the Banana Nanas to participating in on-field games, the Bananas made sure everyone felt like part of the team. The Baby Race was a crowd favorite, and my children were captivated by the antics and energy.


As someone who understands marketing, I was in awe of how well-executed every aspect of the game was. The branding was consistent and compelling, from the unique logo to the vibrant colors that adorned everything from the stadium to the merchandise. The players’ interacting with the fans added such a personal touch.

The experience highlighted the power of entertainment and engagement in building a loyal fan base. The Bananas’ ability to captivate and connect with their audience is a testament to Jesse Cole's vision and the team's dedication.

A MARKETING MASTERCLASS

The Savannah Bananas are a shining example of how creativity, innovation, and a deep understanding of your audience can transform a business. Their success is not just about baseball; it’s about creating an unforgettable experience that keeps fans coming back for more.  For a deeper dive into the Savannah Bananas' marketing journey, check out Jesse Cole’s YouTube video where he discusses the ups and downs of their marketing efforts and how they achieved their current level of success. You can watch it here. Attending a Savannah Bananas game is more than just watching baseball; it's about experiencing a masterclass in marketing and fan engagement. If you get the chance, don't miss out on this incredible show
- Kerri

Savannah Bananas