Eternal Fan’s Zach Mueggenberg: Championing Fan Experience Through Innovation and Authenticity

Cedar Rapids, IA – July 25, 2025 – With over a decade of experience in event management and mobile marketing, Zach Mueggenberg has built a reputation as a behind-the-scenes powerhouse in the sports and entertainment space.

Now serving as Director of Sports Hospitality for Eternal Fan®, Zach brings a strategic and entrepreneurial spirit to every activation, blending creativity, logistics, and an unmatched passion for delivering unforgettable experiences to fans nationwide.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Zach’s journey began with the design and launch of a mobile party grill and two rental party trailers—immersing him in the heart of American tailgate culture. That venture quickly evolved into something much larger, resulting in activations for Fortune 500 companies, massive collegiate alumni events, NFL fan club parties, and numerous high-impact charity events. Whether it's a small private gathering or a 1,000-person parking lot celebration, Zach consistently raises the bar on engagement.

In 2017, Zach’s company sponsored Eternal Fan® NASCAR driver and ambassador Joey Gase at the Daytona 500, marking the beginning of what would become a deeply aligned partnership. Inspired by the raw excitement and community at the racetrack, Zach’s commitment to building meaningful fan connections has only grown stronger.

Today, in his role at Eternal Fan®, Zach oversees a diverse portfolio of events that celebrate the passion of sports and the power of memory. His philosophy—“nobody is sad before the game starts”—fuels his mission to create inclusive environments where fans come together to share joy, excitement, and legacy.

“Zach is a rare leader who combines business savvy with a deep understanding of what moves people emotionally,” said Matt Linn, CEO of Eternal Fan®. “He’s a true builder of experiences, and fans feel that in every event he touches.”

Ask him for a personal favorite venue, and his answer comes without hesitation: Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama.

“Every person there is genuine,” Zach says. “There are no demographics, no politics—just people having the time of their lives together, watching racing for a whole week.”

As Eternal Fan® continues to expand its national footprint, Zach Mueggenberg remains at the forefront, guiding the organization’s event strategy with vision, heart, and an unwavering commitment to the fans.

For more information about Eternal Fan® and their initiatives, please visit www.goeternalfan.com

About Eternal Fan®:
Eternal Fan® is the global leader in commemorative fan engagement experiences, offering customized, enduring tributes inside the sports and entertainment venues fans love most. Through the category of ALX: After Life Experience, and other legacy programs, Eternal Fan® helps individuals and families tell their stories in the most meaningful places—forever, via partnerships with brands like the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars, and installations at iconic locations such as NASCAR’s Richmond Raceway. Eternal Fan® continues its mission to honor passion, preserve memories, and redefine how we celebrate our fandom in the spaces we love most.

Eternal Fan® Continues Talent Expansion with Roger Jones
Pro Sports Executive Named Strategic Alliance Consultant

Cedar Rapids, IA — June 27, 2025 — Eternal Fan®, the industry leader in commemorative fan experiences and pioneer in the @Afterlife Experience (ALX) marketplace, has appointed Roger Jones, a proven innovator in college sports revenue generation, as its new Strategic Alliance Consultant.

Jones is an industry veteran and strategic consultant, advising top-tier clients across sports, spirits, and tech, including Brackish Vodka, EPaymints, Metabilla, and others. Previously, Roger served as Director of Corporate Partnerships for the Cleveland Browns, where he led innovative partnerships with major brands, including AWS and Taco Bell. His track record includes securing multi-million-dollar sponsorships and building scalable revenue strategies for sports properties, startups, and national brands.

“Roger has a great connectability and relatable manner, which makes him a fantastic ambassador for Eternal Fan®”, shares Founder and Chief Executive Officer Matt Linn. “We are excited to enhance our relationship with Roger and look forward to his continued engagement with the sporting industry here in the United States and abroad.”

At Eternal Fan®, Jones will advise on the company’s growth strategy, brand integration, and development of high-impact partnerships with teams, leagues, and venues nationwide. His focus will include identifying unique fan engagement opportunities and expanding Eternal Fan’s presence at live events and iconic sports locations.

“I’m honored to join Eternal Fan® in this capacity,” said Jones.

“The brand is creating something powerful and meaningful for fans, and I’m excited to help shape partnerships that elevate both the experience and the legacy of sports fandom.”

Eternal Fan® has successfully implemented similar initiatives, such as the Fan MemoriesⓇ program with the National Football League (NFL)’s Jacksonville Jaguars and the new 904EVER Club and at NASCAR’s Richmond Raceway (VA), which features the iconic 21-foot "World’s Largest Piston" monument.

The development of the ALX category marks a significant evolution in fan engagement, offering a heartfelt avenue for supporters to remain an enduring part of their team's narrative.

For more information about ALX: After Life Experience and how to create a lasting tribute, please visit www.goeternalfan.com

North Carolina Sports Network Enters Year #3 On The Rise

Smart Talk. Bold Voices. Deep Roots.

Founded in 2023 by veteran sports journalist David Glenn and accomplished athletics executive Mike Waddell, the North Carolina Sports Network (NCSN) was built to deliver something that had been missing from the sports media landscape: a smart, authentic, and locally rooted voice focused entirely on the people, teams, and traditions of the Bold North State.

In an era of media cutbacks and out-of-market decision-makers, NCSN is unapologetically regional. They spotlight the coaches, athletes, rivalries, and fans who make North Carolina one of the greatest sports states in the country.

From the Atlantic Coast Conference to the Carolina Panthers… from Tobacco Road basketball to Friday night lights… from golf courses to short tracks… if it matters to North Carolina sports fans, we’re there—on camera, on the mic, and on-site.

Why “Bold North State”?

Co-founder Mike Waddell created the phrase Bold North State as this venture launched, following more than two decades living in branding-forward states like Texas, Florida, and New York.

“Other states have big slogans—‘Don’t Mess with Texas,’ ‘I ❤️ NY,’ ‘The Sunshine State’—but North Carolina? It has more to offer than all of them. Better weather. Beaches and mountains. Better food. Better schools. Better music. And better people,” Waddell says.

From Andy Griffith to Billy Graham, Richard Petty to Michael Jordan, Stuart Scott, Charles Kuralt, James Taylor, Luke Combs, and George Clinton—North Carolina’s contributions to culture and sports are second to none.

Bold North State isn’t just a tagline. It’s our identity. And we’re proud to wear it.

Jacksonville Jaguars Make History with Fan Memorial Partnership with Eternal Fan

904ever Club To Offer One-of-a-Kind Fan Engagement

Jacksonville, FL – June 9, 2025 – Eternal Fan®, a pioneer in enhancing fan engagement, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the Jacksonville Jaguars, becoming the team’s Official Fan Memories® Partner.

This collaboration marks Eternal Fan’s first venture with an NFL franchise.

As part of the multifaceted agreement, Eternal Fan® will play a central role in the Jaguars’ forthcoming 904ever Club, a dedicated program designed to allow fans to create their legacy within the Stadium of the Future.

The Fan Memories® installations will be a key feature of the 904ever Club, offering fans a one-of-a-kind opportunity to commemorate their most cherished team memories permanently and meaningfully.

Scott Massey, Senior Vice President, Corporate Partnerships of the Jacksonville Jaguars, expressed his enthusiasm.

“For more than 30 years, Jaguars fans have been some of the most passionate and loyal in sports. Through our partnership with Eternal Fan®, we look forward to showing our gratitude to our fans by giving them the unique opportunity to ‘enshrine’ their fandom in our renovated Stadium of the Future, opening in 2028.”

Matt Linn, Founder & CEO of Eternal Fan®, echoed this sentiment.

"Collaborating with the Jacksonville Jaguars is a significant milestone for Eternal Fan®. Our mission is to provide fans with meaningful ways to celebrate their passion, and integrating our installations within the Jaguars' new stadium infrastructure aligns perfectly with this vision. We’re excited to give Jaguars fans a timeless way to commemorate their loyalty and become a lasting part of the team’s story.

Eternal Fan's previous partnership with NASCAR’s Richmond Raceway introduced the Eternal Fan® Racing Piston, allowing fans to secure their legacy at the track. This initiative has set the stage for further collaborations in the sports industry.

The Jacksonville Jaguars' stadium renovation aims to modernize facilities and enhance the fan experience. Including Eternal Fan's installations underscores the team's commitment to innovation and fan engagement 365 days a year.

For more information about Eternal Fan and their initiatives, please visit www.eternal.fans.

About Eternal Fan®:
Eternal Fan® is the global leader in commemorative fan engagement experiences, offering customized, enduring tributes inside the sports and entertainment venues fans love most. Through the category of ALX: After Life Experience, and other legacy programs, Eternal Fan® helps individuals and families tell their stories in the most meaningful places—forever, with installations at iconic locations such as NASCAR’s Richmond Raceway, and others to be announced later in 2025. Eternal Fan® continues its mission to honor passion, preserve memories, and redefine how we celebrate our fandom in the spaces we love most.

904ever Club Fan Memory Wall
Eternal Fan Founder & CEO, Matt Linn
ETERNAL FAN branding
Jacksonville Jaguars branding

Eternal Fan® Accelerates Growth With Key Executive Appointment

Veteran Sports Executive Payne Named Chief Revenue Officer

Cedar Rapids, IA — June 6, 2025 — Eternal Fan®, the industry leader in commemorative fan experiences and pioneer in the Afterlife Experience (ALX) marketplace, has appointed Mark Payne, a proven innovator in college sports revenue generation, as its new Chief Revenue Officer.

With 30 years of success in driving revenue and building partnerships, Payne brings strategic vision and a deep understanding of the sports marketplace. His leadership will be key as Eternal Fan® enhances its presence in the collegiate and professional ranks.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mark to our leadership team,” said Matt Linn, Founder and CEO of Eternal Fan®. “His expertise, relationships, and innovative mindset will help propel us toward new milestones as we continue to grow our brand domestically and abroad.”

“I am excited to be part of this dynamic team in a perfect moment for this company,” said Payne. “Eternal Fan® is poised to change the sports industry and this category.”

Most recently, Payne served as Associate Principal - Director of Business Development at AECOM, focusing on college athletics. His career has also included leadership positions with Learfield, Viacom/CBS Sports Properties, Rockbridge Sports, ISP Sports, and the athletic departments at Georgia Tech, the University of Richmond, and Coastal Carolina University. He holds a master’s degree from the Ohio University Center for Sports Administration and a bachelor’s from Stetson University.

Eternal Fan® has successfully implemented similar initiatives, such as the Fan MemoriesⓇ program at NASCAR’s Richmond Raceway (VA), which features the iconic 21-foot "World’s Largest Piston" monument.

The development of the ALX category marks a significant evolution in fan engagement, offering a heartfelt avenue for supporters to remain an enduring part of their team's narrative.

For more information about ALX: After Life Experience and how to create a lasting tribute, please visithttps://eternal.fans.

Eternal Fan® Engages Brentwood to Lead Branding, PR

Sports & Entertainment Group Was Part of Initial Fan Experience in 2018

Cedar Rapids, IA — June 4, 2025 — Eternal Fan®, the industry leader in commemorative fan experiences and pioneer in the After Life Experience (ALX) marketplace, is deepening its relationship with Brentwood Partners, LLC (www.brentwood.partners | @gowithbrentwood). The firm will provide brand management, marketing, public relations, and strategic counsel, building upon its operational development role that began in 2018.

“Our extended partnership with Brentwood speaks volumes about the trust and success we've built together,” Matt Linn, President of Eternal Fan®. “Their insight and support have been integral to our growth, and we’re excited to elevate the relationship even further.”

Michael Waddell, Founder and Principal at Brentwood Partners, added: “Matt Linn is one of the most creative and action-oriented leaders I’ve encountered in my 38-year career. His vision for Eternal Fan®—to become the world’s leading ALX engagement brand—is bold and inspiring. We’re honored to be part of this journey and growth in this innovative space.”

Waddell’s association with Eternal Fan® dates back to Spring 2018, when, as the Vice President of NASCAR’s Richmond Raceway, he helped establish the company’s first on-site fan experience with the “World’s Largest Piston,” located adjacent to the iconic motorsports venue's main gates.

Brentwood Partners, LLC (brentwood) Established in 2013 with a mission to deliver strategic solutions across six core service areas: revenue generation, brand development, fan engagement, creative content production, eSports innovation, and executive search within higher education, sports, and entertainment, The company is led by Founder and Principal Michael Waddell, a seasoned executive who has served as President of multiple professional sports franchises as well as serving as a Director of Athletics at the NCAA Division I level. Keith Tribble, former CEO of Jackson Health System, President of the Orange Bowl Committee, and Director of Athletics at the University of Central Florida, serves as Managing Partner and Chief Operating Officer.

About Eternal Fan®:
Eternal Fan® is the global leader in commemorative fan engagement experiences, offering customized, enduring tributes inside the sports and entertainment venues fans love most. Through the category of ALX: After Life Experience, and other legacy programs, Eternal Fan® helps individuals and families tell their stories in the most meaningful places—forever, with installations at iconic locations such as Richmond Raceway, and others to be announced later in 2025. Eternal Fan® continues its mission to honor passion, preserve memories, and redefine how we celebrate our fandom in the spaces we love most.

Eternal Fan® Leads The Way in ALX

A Revolutionary Way to Celebrate Fan Legacies Beyond a Lifetime

Cedar Rapids, IA — June 3, 2025— Eternal Fan®, the pioneer in commemorative fan experiences, is revolutionizing how fans engage with their favorite teams and venues. It leads the charge in developing products and services within the ALX: After Life Experience category. This groundbreaking mindset redefines how fans connect with their beloved teams, venues, and fellow enthusiasts. Building upon the company's mission to honor fans' unwavering passion, Eternal Fan® offers a personalized experience, unlike anything previously imagined, tapping into the passion that true sports fans display and value for a lifetime, and now, beyond.

Eternal Fan® has long recognized that fans are the heartbeat of sports and entertainment. Their dedication transforms events into unforgettable memories. Through ALX, Eternal Fan® allows fans to solidify their legacy within the venues that have been central to their lives. This service creates customized memorials, ensuring a fan's spirit remains integral to the game-day experience.

"Fans are the soul of every team and venue," said Matt Linn, President of Eternal Fan®. Through our vision for ALX and the products & partnerships that we create, Eternal Fan® offers a unique way for fans to be eternally present in the places they cherish most. It's more than a memorial; it's a lasting connection that celebrates their passion and unites generations of supporters. This is the Ultimate in Fan Engagement!”

Key Features of ALX: After Life Experience, via Eternal Fan®

Personalized Fan SpacesⓇ: Fans can choose dedicated areas within their favorite venues to house their memorials, creating a permanent presence in the heart of the action.
Customizable Tributes: From engraved plaques to digital displays, ALX offers various options to reflect each fan's unique story and connection to the team.
Family and Community Engagement: ALX encourages families and fellow fans to commemorate their loved ones, fostering community and shared remembrance.