Trybe Targeting, the enthusiast marketing division of MMA Creative, has forged a strategic partnership with the sanctioning body of cornhole.

The American Cornhole Organization sanctions over 100 cornhole tournaments each year and boasts a membership of more than 4,000 participants. ACO is based in Milford, Ohio, and was founded in 2005.

Each year, more than three million Americans play cornhole. Some play for fun, but a select group plays professionally. Currently, there are more than 800 competitive cornhole players touring the country and playing the sport on a professional level.

“We are excited to announce our partnership with Trybe,” said Frank Geers, president of American Cornhole, LLC. “They are the industry experts when it comes to marketing to and for enthusiast groups.”

In 2007, MMA became the agency of record for the Kansas City Barbeque Society. Since that time MMA has more than doubled the non-profit society’s membership. In 2008, MMA and Trybe launched the Great American BBQ Tour, a 20-city, cross-country tour featuring tips and demonstrations from professionals as well as food sampling.

In 2009, Trybe partnered with the International Chili Society, furthering its knowledge of food and enthusiast marketing.

“Over the last four years, we’ve gained invaluable knowledge on enthusiast based marketing,” said Mike McCloud, president and CEO of Trybe and MMA. “We are looking forward to bringing this knowledge to cornhole and expanding the sport.”

Trybe and ACO will focus this strategic partnership on growing the game and sport of cornhole by increasing both membership and participation. Trybe will also integrate corporate sponsorship platforms, media coverage and membership benefit programs into the organization to further elevate cornhole.