Welcome to Sportico’s transactions wire, where I, Oliver Johnson, your witty and humorous content writer, bring you the latest updates from the sports business industry. In this article, we'll delve into the world of personnel changes, partnerships, and purchases that are shaping the industry. Get ready for exciting news, strategic collaborations, and game-changing acquisitions that will leave you wanting more!
Tennis Channel Names Matt Graham as Senior Vice President
Tennis Channel appoints Matt Graham as Senior Vice President for direct-to-consumer and streaming business development.
Tennis Channel, a leading television network in the sports industry, has made an exciting addition to its team. Matt Graham, a seasoned television-and-digital executive, has been appointed as the Senior Vice President for direct-to-consumer and streaming business development. In this newly created role, Graham will spearhead the company's strategy to make Tennis Channel's television network available directly to customers through a new streaming platform planned for 2024.
Graham brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously served as the General Manager of streaming platforms Acorn TV and Sundance Now at AMC Networks. His expertise in the digital space and his track record of success make him the perfect fit for this role.
Karen Matijak Joins On Location and Events at IMG
Karen Matijak appointed as Senior Vice President of business operations and transformation for On Location and IMG's Events division.
Exciting news in the world of premium hospitality experiences! Karen Matijak has been appointed as the Senior Vice President of business operations and transformation for On Location, a global premium hospitality experiences company, and IMG's Events division. In this role, Matijak will be responsible for driving strategic and transformation initiatives for these Endeavor-owned businesses.
With her extensive experience in launching and transforming businesses, Matijak is well-equipped to take on this role. Her past accomplishments include launching HERE Technology's Professional Services business, transforming The Nature's Bounty Company in preparation for IPO, and setting up an HR shared service for McGraw-Hill Education. Matijak's expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the success of On Location and IMG's Events business.
International Federation of American Football Taps NFL's Peter O'Reilly
NFL executive Peter O'Reilly joins the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Board.
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) has made a significant addition to its board. Peter O'Reilly, an executive from the National Football League (NFL), has been appointed to the IFAF Board. This unanimous decision was made in recognition of the collaboration between the NFL and IFAF, particularly in the Vision28 project that aims to promote flag football globally.
O'Reilly brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served as the NFL's Executive Vice President for Club Business, International, and League Events. With his Olympic experience and previous involvement in supporting Olympic basketball, O'Reilly is well-suited to contribute to the growth and development of American football on a global scale.
New Balance and Tennis Australia Announce New Sponsorship
New Balance becomes the Official Performance Apparel and Footwear provider for the Australian Open and United Cup.
Exciting news for tennis enthusiasts! New Balance and Tennis Australia have announced a new sponsorship agreement. New Balance will now be the Official Performance Apparel and Footwear provider for two prestigious tennis events: the Australian Open and the United Cup.
As part of this partnership, New Balance will release an exclusive line of performance apparel and footwear branded with the Australian Open logo. Tennis fans will have the opportunity to purchase these items online or at New Balance's on-site retail store during the Australian Open. Additionally, New Balance will outfit the ballkids at the United Cup, adding a touch of style to the tournament.
This collaboration showcases New Balance's commitment to the sport of tennis and its support for major tennis events around the world. It also highlights Tennis Australia's dedication to providing the best experience for players and fans alike.
Zone Mental Health App Partners With A-10, Mountain West, Patriot League
The Zone partners with college athletic conferences to provide mental health support for student-athletes.
Mental health is a crucial aspect of student-athletes' well-being, and The Zone is stepping up to provide support. The mental health app has partnered with three college athletic conferences: the Atlantic 10, Mountain West, and Patriot League.
These collaborations will make The Zone the preferred mental health partner for each conference, helping them meet the NCAA's new mental health regulations. With over 140 teams and 5,700 athletes already benefiting from The Zone's mobile app, this partnership will enhance accessibility to mental health care and provide tailored support for student-athletes.
By partnering with The Zone, these conferences are prioritizing the mental well-being of their student-athletes and ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive both on and off the field.
National Lacrosse League, Marvel Team to Promote Sport's Origin Story
The National Lacrosse League partners with Marvel to honor and popularize the sport's Indigenous origin story.
In a celebration of Native American Heritage Month, the National Lacrosse League (NLL) has teamed up with storytelling giant Marvel to shed light on the sport's Indigenous origin story. This exciting collaboration will kick off in the upcoming 2023-24 NLL season.
The central theme of this partnership is the history of lacrosse, a sport deeply rooted in Indigenous culture. To bring this story to life, a custom comic book will be created, written by Paul Allor in collaboration with the NLL's Indigenous consultants. The comic book will be available exclusively at designated Marvel Super Hero™ themed games hosted by each NLL team.
This partnership not only pays homage to the sport's origins but also aims to popularize lacrosse and create a deeper connection between fans and the game. It's an exciting initiative that showcases the NLL's commitment to honoring its heritage and promoting inclusivity.
Avery Dennison Completes Acquisition of Silver Crystal Group
Avery Dennison acquires Silver Crystal Group, expanding its presence in sports apparel customization.
Avery Dennison, a leading player in the apparel solutions business, has completed the acquisition of Silver Crystal Group. This strategic move allows Avery Dennison to expand its presence in sports apparel customization across various platforms, including in-venue, direct-to-business, and e-commerce.
Silver Crystal Group brings a wealth of expertise in sports apparel customization, making them a valuable addition to Avery Dennison's Solutions Group. With this acquisition, Avery Dennison strengthens its position in the market and enhances its ability to provide innovative and high-quality apparel solutions to its customers.
Prep Super League's Denver Franchise to Be Purchased by Upswing Foundation
Upswing Foundation acquires the Denver franchise of the Prep Super League, a spring football league for top high school players.
In exciting news for high school football players, the Denver franchise of the Prep Super League (PSL) has found a new owner. The Upswing Foundation has entered into an agreement to purchase the rights to the Denver franchise, joining the league's other teams located in 12 markets across the nation.
The PSL is an 11-on-11 spring football league that showcases the skills of top high school players. With collegiate playing rules, NFL-level safety protocols, and real-time streaming of games, the PSL offers a unique platform for aspiring college football prospects.
To be eligible for participation in the PSL, players must be currently enrolled in an accredited middle or high school curriculum and reside in one of the league's 12 designated markets. This acquisition by the Upswing Foundation opens up new opportunities for young athletes in Denver and further strengthens the PSL's mission to provide a competitive and safe environment for their development.