Affina, a fusion of fan-engagement platform CrowdPlay and card-linked offer specialist Rethink Loyalty, has launched a “third way” in sports loyalty programs. Recognizing that many teams lack the in-house resources to develop and operate sophisticated loyalty systems, Affina delivers a fully managed solution. It combines gamified fan interaction (like trivia and QR-code rewards) with funding from external card-linked offers and provides hands-on program management. Since its December 2024 merger, the Boston‑based startup has doubled its client base annually, adding NBA, NHL, Fanatics, and soon an NFL club, and recently closed a seven‑figure Series A. Affina’s unique managed‑services model helps teams avoid past pitfalls, proving loyalty programs can now be sustainable and scalable