NEC Partners with TrailRunner Sports to Optimize Media Rights Strategy

In an exciting development for sports fans and institutions alike, the Northeast Conference (NEC) has officially announced a new partnership with TrailRunner Sports to take charge of its media rights strategy. This strategic collaboration aims to leverage expert advisory and negotiation services, ensuring that the NEC remains competitive in an evolving sports media landscape.

The announcement was made on May 6, 2026, revealing that TrailRunner Sports will work directly with NEC leadership. Their primary task will be to analyze the shifting dynamics of sports media, identify promising media partners, and guide the NEC in developing and negotiating media rights agreements that will shape the future of the conference's visibility and profitability.

Commissioner Noreen Morris expressed her enthusiasm about this partnership, noting the significant timing of such collaborative efforts focusing on both strategic planning and media rights negotiations. "This partnership represents a crucial step in our journey to enhance our storytelling and how we deliver content to our devoted fans," she stated. Morris emphasized the wealth of knowledge and industry experience that Jamie Zaninovich and his team bring to this collaboration.

Jamie Zaninovich, Vice Chair of TrailRunner Sports, leads the team's efforts. With a robust background in media rights strategy, he is prepared for this endeavor. The firm’s connection with Legends and its membership within TrailRunner International further strengthens their approach as they navigate the complexities of media negotiations.

Zaninovich also highlighted the NEC’s institutional alignment and the powerful narrative that underpins the conference's offerings across its member institutions. He expressed eagerness to utilize their industry relationships and insights to advocate for the NEC effectively, fostering long-term success and improved exposure for both the conference and its student-athletes.

Founded in 1981, the NEC, a member of the NCAA Division I, comprises ten educational institutions spread over six states. Its media presence permeates some of the largest markets in the U.S., vying for further growth and awareness through enhanced media agreements. The TrailRunner partnership comes at a pivotal time as the conference embarks on endeavors to expand the reach of its sports and increase the recognition of its athletes.

For TrailRunner Sports, this partnership exemplifies their commitment to serving the sports industry by employing strategic business advice and communication tactics. Their expertise spans a broad spectrum, including crisis communication, public reputation strategy, and customized solutions tailored for sports teams and leagues. With their dedicated presence in major markets—ranging from New York and Dallas to international locations—the firm is well-equipped to push the NEC’s media strategy forward.

The collaboration signifies a new chapter for the NEC, one that not only aims to refine its media rights strategy but also seeks to significantly boost the conference's profile and effectiveness in delivering engaging content to a broader audience. As the partnership unfolds, excitement builds within the community for the potential transformations that lie ahead, heralding a future filled with opportunities for growth and recognition within collegiate athletics.

For ongoing updates from the NEC and insights into how this collaboration unfolds, fans and stakeholders can visit the official NEC website and their various social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok (@NECsports). This partnership aligns with the NEC's core vision—maximizing growth, value, and visibility while elevating the experience for fans and participants alike.

Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a student-athlete, or a member institution, the developments resulting from this partnership with TrailRunner Sports are poised to pave the way for an exciting future in collegiate sports media.