Ministry of Sport

Bulldogs, ASICS to gift free footwear to over 1500 children in the West

Posted on July 15, 2025July 14, 2025 by Courtney

The Western Bulldogs and ASICS Oceania have renewed their partnership to deliver ASICS footwear to more than 1,500 junior footballers across Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Following a successful rollout in Ballarat last year, the expanded initiative will reach 18 community centres, reinforcing both organisations’ commitment to supporting grassroots Australian Rules Football (AFL) development.

Backing the Next Generation

Western Bulldogs Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer, Kon Karavias, said the program is designed to give young players the resources they need to thrive.

“We’re delighted to announce the return of this initiative in partnership with ASICS, which will positively affect junior boys and girls in the western suburbs, who are the future stars of our game,” Karavias said.

“Supporting local communities is something both ASICS and the Club value highly. We hope this initiative brings a smile to kids and their families here in the West.”

ASICS Champions Community Participation

ASICS Oceania Managing Director, Mark Brunton, reiterated the brand’s mission to foster participation and wellbeing through sport.

“At ASICS, we believe in the positive power of sport to uplift the mind and unite community,” Brunton said.

The partnership aims to promote physical activity, confidence, and community connection among children, particularly in culturally diverse neighbourhoods.

Endorsed for Grassroots Impact

AFL Victoria Head, Greg Madigan, welcomed the program as a key contribution to grassroots football development.

“This collaboration between the Western Bulldogs and ASICS is a wonderful initiative to support grassroots football,” Madigan said.

He highlighted Melbourne’s western suburbs as a priority region for participation growth and community engagement.

Performance Footwear with Medical Backing

ASICS footwear used in the program features the brand’s latest product innovations and has been endorsed by the Australian Physiotherapy Association and Sports Medicine Australia. The designs focus on performance and support, helping athletes of all ages feel confident on and off the field.

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Global Sponsorship Trends 2024: Navigating Football’s Dominance, Women’s Sports Surge, and Media Evolution

Posted on July 15, 2025July 14, 2025 by Courtney

The global sports industry is undergoing notable shifts, driven by evolving fan demographics, technological advancements in media consumption, and the increasing globalisation of major codes.

A recent Nielsen report highlights that the value of global sports media rights is projected to exceed $60 billion in 2024, underscoring the expanding commercial landscape.

Three key trends are currently reshaping the sports sponsorship environment:

1. Football’s Enduring Global Dominance and Sponsorship Potential

Football (soccer) maintains its position as the world’s most popular sport, with 51% of the global population identifying as fans. This widespread appeal translates into significant commercial opportunities. The report notes that major tournaments scheduled for 2025, 2026, and 2027 are expected to further amplify global fandom.

Notably, the United States, despite traditionally being dominated by other codes, now boasts the fourth-largest football fanbase globally.

This is particularly relevant for sponsors, as 67% of U.S. football fans reportedly find brands sponsoring their favourite competitions more appealing.

2. Women’s Sports Driving New Sponsorship Opportunities

Interest in women’s sports has experienced a notable surge, with 50% of the global population expressing interest in 2024, an increase from 45% in 2022. This growth is creating distinct commercial opportunities.

Women now adds up to 47% of fans of women’s sports and 42% of fans of men’s sports, presenting a clear demographic shift for brands to engage.

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) serves as a prominent example of this momentum, with its fanbase growing by 31% in two years and viewership increasing by 201% for the 2024 regular season.

This commercial viability is attracting a more diverse range of sponsors, with brands like Coach and Sephora entering the space, signalling a shift towards industries historically underrepresented in sports sponsorship.

3. Media Expansion Broadens Access to New Formats and Global Sports

The evolution of streaming platforms and social media is fundamentally altering how fans consume sports content, enabling new formats and niche sports to find global audiences.

The report cites examples such as TGL, a tech-infused golf league, which has attracted younger demographics, with 32% of its 18-34 year-old viewers not being regular PGA Tour followers.

Similarly, the global growth of pickleball, with brands like Nature Made® leveraging social media campaigns, demonstrates the potential of emerging sports.

Social media is also playing a role in the globalisation of established sports like rugby, where female followers are reportedly growing faster than male followers globally.

Strategic Implications for Australian Sports Professionals

To effectively navigate these evolving trends, Australian sports professionals must adopt adaptive and data-driven strategies.

For brands, this necessitates a focus on identifying relevant fan bases, prioritising authentic engagement over traditional logo placement, and exploring innovative sponsorship models that resonate with modern consumers.

For rights holders, the emphasis should be on providing comprehensive fan insights to potential sponsors, expanding access to content across diverse platforms, and fostering long-term partnerships that align with sponsor goals beyond mere exposure.

Conclusion

The dynamic nature of the global sports landscape demands a proactive and informed approach to sponsorship strategy. By leveraging data analytics, embracing new media formats, and actively engaging with diverse and growing audiences, sports professionals can unlock significant commercial potential.

As highlighted by Nielsen’s findings, success in 2024 and beyond will hinge on crafting captivating stories that resonate across multiple touchpoints and investing in meaningful, long-term relationships that deliver tangible value for all stakeholders.

For Australian sports, these insights offer a clear roadmap to maintain competitiveness and leadership within the global sports market.

Alastair Lynch joins SEN Tassie Breakfast

Posted on July 15, 2025July 14, 2025 by Courtney

Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) has announced an exciting development for the SEN Tassie Breakfast show with the introduction of Tasmanian football icon Alastair Lynch as the new co-host alongside Brent Costelloe.

This change follows Tim Paine’s recent departure from the role, as he transitions to serve as the Head Coach of Australia A.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the position, Lynch, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Brent and the SEN Tassie Breakfast team.”

“I’ll always be a passionate Tasmanian, so I’m looking forward to sharing the stories, celebrating the wins, and having a laugh with listeners each morning. Footy and all sports are such a big part of our culture in Tassie, and I can’t wait to dive into it with the passionate local community,” he said.

Acknowledging Lynch’s significance in Tasmanian sports, commercial manager at SEN James Sellar, said: “Alastair is a household name in Tasmanian sport and a natural fit for SEN Tassie Breakfast.”

“His experience, passion, and connection to the local community will bring a fresh energy to the show. We’re excited for what’s ahead and know listeners will love what Alastair brings to the mic,” Sellar added.

widely regarded as one of Tasmania’s greatest athletes, Alastair Lynch, carries a remarkable legacy from his 17-year AFL career. With 306 games and 633 goals under his belt, Lynch achieved significant success with the Brisbane Lions, securing three premierships in 2001, 2002, and 2003.

His achievements include All-Australian selections and spots in both the Fitzroy and Tasmanian Teams of the Century.

Additionally, he was inducted into the Tasmanian Football Hall of Fame and earned icon status in 2010, later being included in the Queensland Football Hall of Fame in 2023.

A current board member of the Tasmania Devils, Lynch’s commitment to enhancing the local sporting community is evident, as he aims to champion Tasmanian talent and narratives through his new role.

Listeners can catch the SEN Tassie Breakfast show on Mondays and Fridays from 7 to 9 AM on SEN Tassie 1629AM in Hobart, on SENTrack Launceston & Devonport 1611AM, or via the SEN app.

Cronulla Sharks Club Construction Receives Go Ahead

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Courtney

The Cronulla Sharks have reached a formal agreement with Woolooware Bay developers Novm and Capital Corporation, clearing the way for the construction of a long-awaited new League Club.

The announcement marks a key milestone in the club’s long-term community and financial strategy, following years of delays and complex negotiations.

The new facility will be built on the site of the former League Club, adjacent to Sharks Stadium, and will form a central feature of the wider Woolooware Bay Town Centre precinct. The club has also confirmed the appointment of Xenia Constructions to oversee the build and fit-out.

Sharks Chairman Steve Mace acknowledged the challenges overcome during the project: “This has been a long and complex journey, but today marks a defining moment. The project has faced almost every challenge imaginable—from COVID disruptions to cost escalations. But what has mattered most is how we’ve responded, with grit, unity, and unwavering focus on the end goal.”

“We acknowledge the role Novm and Capital Corporation have played in helping us reach this point—one that ultimately benefits the Sharks and our members,” Mace added.

Sharks CEO Dino Mezzatesta welcomed the shift to the construction phase:“Rather than dwell on the delays that have been frustrating for all parties, we can now focus on delivering a new club facility for our members and the local community.”

“With the agreement finalised and Xenia Constructions appointed, we’re now ready to move forward with construction. Once Xenia is fully mobilised, we’ll have a clearer timeline, but ideally, we’re aiming to open towards the back end of the 2026 NRL season,” Mezzatesta said.

John Gough, founder and director of Xenia, expressed pride in being appointed to the project: “It’s a privilege to contribute to a venue that holds such deep cultural and community significance. We look forward to working closely with the Sharks to deliver a club that reflects both their legacy and their future.”

Novm, which has largely completed the retail and residential elements of the Woolooware Bay Town Centre, also expressed satisfaction with progress toward delivering the Leagues Club component.

Construction is expected to take approximately 12 to 15 months, with opening targeted for mid-to-late 2026. Xenia brings a strong portfolio of hospitality and community projects across New South Wales and Queensland and has been engaged in pre-construction planning for nearly 12 months.

St Kilda Saints Leverage School Holidays for Fans and Commercial Activations

Posted on July 14, 2025July 14, 2025 by Courtney

St Kilda Football Club has rolled out a multi-pronged campaign to deepen fan engagement and drive commercial outcomes during the winter school holiday period, using match-day offers, community clinics, and retail incentives to broaden its supporter base.

The strategic push aims to grow match-day attendance, merchandise sales and community participation, while making better use of year-round club assets.

Free Kids Tickets Fuel Match-Day Growth

For its recent Sunday fixture against the Sydney Swans at Marvel Stadium, the club introduced a ‘Kids Go Free’ initiative, offering free entry for fans under 14 and up to 10 redeemable tickets per transaction.

The promotion helped lift gate numbers and was backed by family-friendly activations including a live DJ, glitter bar, glow sticks, mascots, and giveaways. While direct revenue from children’s tickets was foregone, the offer encouraged greater per-capita spend on food, beverage and merchandise—and built positive associations with the Saints brand among younger fans.

Clinics Reinforce Grassroots Pathways

St Kilda also ran a tiered series of July Holiday Clinics, catering to children aged 4–12 and teens aged 12–16 through its “Future Saints” program. The clinics supported grassroots participation, while giving the club an early pathway into junior membership acquisition and talent development.

Retail Offerings Drive Holiday Spend

The club offered 30% off Youth Guernseys and apparel, both online and at stadium outlets, coupled with a free Saints lanyard and keyring for all youth merchandise purchases at Sunday’s match.

This dual-purpose campaign aimed to boost sales during a key retail window and move inventory, while offering added value for in-stadium spend and deepening brand affinity among young fans.

Community Assets Boost Year-Round Engagement

Beyond the stadium, St Kilda spotlighted the Linton Street Café and on-site museum, alongside the Danny Frawley Centre—a facility housing a gym, pool, recovery spaces and mental fitness programs.

The café and centre offer ongoing touchpoints for fans outside game day, positioning the club as a community hub while diversifying revenue through memberships and program fees. CSR value is also embedded in the centre’s focus on holistic wellbeing.

The added prospect of fans glimpsing players in training offered further incentive to visit club facilities during the break.

Digital Strategy Supports Amplification

The club backed the initiative with a coordinated digital campaign, encouraging fans to follow official channels and engage with branded hashtags such as #SaintsFooty, amplifying reach and reinforcing online community presence.

WNBA’s Chicago Sky Announces Landmark Partnership with Ordr to Revolutionize Fan Experiences Through Payment Innovation

Posted on July 14, 2025July 14, 2025 by Courtney

The Chicago Sky, a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchise, has announced a strategic partnership with Ordr, a leading innovator in AI-driven payment data and processing solutions for the sports and entertainment sector.

The collaboration aims to improve the fan experience and streamline financial operations by introducing a modern, intelligent payment infrastructure. The new platform is set to go live for the upcoming WNBA season.

Ordr’s platform-as-a-service aggregates all fan spending across touchpoints—such as ticketing, food and beverage, retail, mobile, and online channels—into a single data layer. This integration enables faster, more seamless transactions and provides the club with deep insights to inform smarter business decisions and unlock new revenue opportunities.

Ryan Bott, CEO of Ordr, said:“The Chicago Sky are extremely innovative, from ownership to the front office. They’re leaders in professional women’s sport, and upgrading to a modern, AI-driven payment platform was critical to support their revenue goals. Our goals aligned perfectly, and we’re thrilled to partner with the Sky to set a new benchmark for operational excellence in the WNBA.”

Stephanie Hedrick, Chief Financial Officer at the Chicago Sky, added: “Partnering with Ordr represents a strategic advancement for our financial operations. Ordr’s intelligent platform not only streamlines our transactional processes but also provides unprecedented visibility into our revenue, enabling smarter decisions, greater efficiency, and accelerated financial performance.”

A key advantage of Ordr’s system is that it integrates with existing payment terminals, eliminating the need for costly hardware replacements. The platform translates raw transaction data into actionable insights, supporting targeted fan engagement and optimised commercial strategy.

This partnership marks a significant step in the Sky’s digital transformation, reinforcing the club’s commitment to operational excellence and innovation within the WNBA.

Paris Unveils Swimmable Seine: A Major Urban Legacy of the Olympic Games

Posted on July 14, 2025July 14, 2025 by Courtney

Paris has officially opened three new natural swimming locations along the Seine, Bras Marie, Bercy, and Grenelle, on 5 July 2025.

This development occurs just over a year after the river hosted Olympic triathlon and marathon swimming competitions during the Paris 2024 Games, marking a significant milestone in a decades-long urban regeneration project.

Highlighting the impact of the Paris Games, Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo, expressed: “The spirit of the Games continues to thrive in the streets of Paris. And now, in the waters of the Seine.”

“This progress would not have materialised so swiftly without the Olympic and Paralympic Games. It is through this collaborative, ambitious project—backed by all stakeholders within the State and the Olympic and Paralympic Movement—that we successfully navigated the environmental, health, and technical challenges to make swimming a safe and sustainable reality,” Mayor Hidalgo said.

Reinforcing the perspective, IOC head of legacy Tania Braga, added: “When a host city embraces the Games as a springboard for long-term progress, as Paris has exemplified, the impact profoundly transcends venues and competitive events.”

“It is about reconnecting people to their environment, generating enduring public value, and demonstrating how ambition and collaboration can engender meaningful change,” Braga noted.

Key Developments:

These newly accessible sites are projected to accommodate approximately 1,000 swimmers daily through August, offering clean waters and secure access.

The reopening of the Seine for public swimming is the culmination of extensive environmental and infrastructure investment. Historically, swimming in the river was prohibited in 1923 due to severe pollution.

This initiative aimed to restore the river to a swimmable state by the time of the Olympic Games, focusing on rectifying outdated sewage systems, stormwater runoff, and wastewater discharge.

A key infrastructure development in this transformation is a substantial underground storage basin near Austerlitz. This facility is designed to capture and contain overflow from the sewer network during heavy rainfall, preventing untreated water from contaminating the Seine.

With a capacity exceeding 50,000 cubic metres, equivalent to twenty Olympic-sized swimming pools, the basin holds wastewater for safe treatment before its eventual release.

Social, Environmental, and Economic Implications:

While the project was primarily an engineering undertaking, its implications extend to social, environmental, and economic domains. The initiative has provided Parisians and visitors with new access to green spaces, leisure activities, and opportunities for physical well-being in the city centre.

The newly opened sites offer free, safe, and refreshing public spaces, equipped with accessible facilities, lifeguards, showers, and sun decks. Kayaks are available for borrowing at Grenelle, with clearly marked swimming zones and temporary navigation halts during operating hours. Water quality is rigorously tested daily to ensure safety protocols are met.

The Olympic Catalyst and Enduring Legacy:

The successful restoration of the Seine exemplifies how major sporting events can serve as catalysts for significant urban and regional improvements.

While efforts to clean the river were already underway, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games provided a unique impetus and a definitive deadline to accelerate these initiatives.

This ultimately reconnected Paris with its iconic river, transforming it from a mere backdrop to a functional public amenity.

Basketball Australia’s Integrity Unit Secures Landmark Arrest in Online Abuse Case

Posted on July 14, 2025July 14, 2025 by Courtney

Basketball Australia’s (BA) Integrity Unit, in collaboration with Victoria Police, has announced the arrest of a 37-year-old man over a racially abusive social media message sent to a National Basketball League (NBL) player.

The incident, reported in November 2024, marks a significant step in the fight against online abuse in sport and sets a precedent for legal intervention in athlete-targeted harassment.

The Integrity Unit identified the alleged perpetrator after receiving a report of a direct message containing racial abuse. The information was escalated to Victoria Police, resulting in the arrest of a Huntingdale man on 2 July.

He has been charged with using a carriage service to menace, harass or offend and was granted bail. The case is set to be heard at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court on 15 August.

In a statement, a BA Integrity Unit spokesperson said the case highlights the legal consequences of targeting athletes online and reinforces the organisation’s zero-tolerance stance on abuse.

“Every athlete deserves to compete in a safe environment, free from abuse,” the spokesperson said. “There are laws that govern appropriate behaviour towards athletes, and this action sends a strong message: hateful messages will not be tolerated.”

BA praised the bravery of the athlete involved and reaffirmed its commitment to building a respectful sporting culture in collaboration with law enforcement and league stakeholders.

This case sets a precedent for the application of legal and governance frameworks designed to safeguard players and reinforces the role of sport integrity bodies in addressing online harm.

Dragons Partnering with Georges River Life Care for 50-50 Raffle

Posted on July 14, 2025July 14, 2025 by Courtney

The St George Illawarra Dragons have announced a partnership with Georges River Life Care, a local community not-for-profit organisation, for a 50-50 Charity Raffle during their upcoming double-header at Jubilee Stadium against the Roosters.

This initiative aims to increasethe focus of professional sports clubs by leveraging their platforms for direct community benefit and corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives.

The 50-50 Charity Raffle, a common fundraising mechanism in sports, will be conducted both at Jubilee Stadium during Saturday’s match and through online ticket purchases for those unable to attend.

The proceeds from the raffle will directly support Georges River Life Care, an organisation that has been operating in Peakhurst since 2007, providing support and enrichment to individuals and families in the Georges River community affected by domestic violence and financial hardship.

Georges River Life Care specialises in three core areas: Domestic and Family Violence support, Emergency Relief, and the Artslife creative arts program.

Through these programs, the organisation delivers a range of critical services, including food hampers, legal support, financial counselling, assistance with transitional housing needs, and social connection initiatives.

The support generated by the 50-50 Charity Raffle is intended to enable Life Care to expand its case management program, thereby increasing the quality of life and lessening the burden for a greater number of clients.

QMS Announce 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics Partnership

Posted on July 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by Courtney

Leading digital outdoor media company QMS has announced its partnership packages for the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

The announcement was made during a special event at the iconic Sydney Opera House, attended by key stakeholders including major advertisers, agencies, and representatives from the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) and Paralympics Australia (PA).

As the official outdoor media partner for the Australian Olympic and Paralympic Teams, QMS aims to provide a robust digital out-of-home solution for brands eager to engage with the Australian audience amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the Games.

This venture builds on the success of the Paris Games Network, which reportedly achieved a 24% increase in campaign impact for partners while driving significant uplift across vital brand metrics.

The Milano Cortina Winter Games Network is anticipated to reach approximately 77% of metropolitan Australians, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for brands to forge connections at scale. By leveraging the expansive network of digital assets, QMS is positioning itself to enhance the visibility of partner brands throughout this globally significant event.

Expressing pride in continuing support for Australia’s Winter Olympic and Paralympic teams, chief executive officer of QMS John O’Neill, said: “Following the success of the Paris 2024 Summer Games, we’re excited to be back working hand-in-hand with the AOC and PA as we engage, inspire and unite all Australians outdoors through the power of winter sport.”

Highlighting the significance of Milano Cortina 2026 for Australia’s Winter Olympic movement, asserting that the stories of Aussie winter athletes would resonate deeply with the nation, CEO of the AOC Mark Arbib, said: “In QMS, we have a partner who not only understands the power of those stories but has the scale and creativity to bring them to life across the country.”

Stressing the importance of sharing the inspiring stories of Australian Paralympians to a wider audience, CEO of Paralympics Australia Cameron Murray, concluded: “We are thrilled to have QMS back in our Paralympics Australia family for the Milano Cortina Winter Games.”

The Milano Cortina Games will commence on 6 February 2026, featuring over 2,900 athletes from 93 countries who will compete across 116 medal events in 16 Olympic disciplines.

The Winter Paralympics will follow suit, beginning on 6 March 2026, showcasing 600 athletes vying for 79 medals in six Paralympic sports. Australia is set to send a contingent of around 60 Olympians and 14 Paralympians.

With these exclusive partnership opportunities now available, QMS is positioned to leverage its extensive digital infrastructure in support of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games, setting the stage for an impactful engagement with Australian audiences as athletes compete on the world stage.

Arizona Diamondbacks Collaborates with OneCourt to Introduce Tactile Sports Broadcast

Posted on July 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by Courtney

The Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation has partnered with OneCourt to launch tactile sports broadcasts at Chase Field, becoming the first Major League Baseball (MLB) team to adopt the accessibility-focused technology.

The initiative enables blind and low-vision fans to experience live baseball through vibrations and audio cues, translating real-time gameplay into a format that can be felt through a specialised device.

Devices will be available free of charge at the Guest Relations Centre (Section 128).

Derrick Hall, Diamondbacks President, CEO, and General Partner, said the move aligns with the club’s commitment to accessibility: “We are proud to be the first MLB team to adopt OneCourt’s technology. This initiative enhances accessibility and reiterates our belief that every fan deserves to feel fully connected to their team.”

OneCourt CEO Jerred Mace added: “The momentum we’ve seen is a testament to the impact OneCourt is having on fans. We’re honoured to work alongside teams who share our belief that sport is for everyone.”

The collaboration extends beyond the stadium. The Diamondbacks Foundation will work with local nonprofits supporting the blind and low-vision community, providing free tickets and access to the devices.

A group from the Foundation for Blind Children became the first to use the technology at Chase Field on Friday, 13 June.

This move underscores the Diamondbacks’ broader mission to create inclusive fan experiences and reflects a growing trend in professional sports to address barriers to access through technology.

Sydney Bears Appoint Jaimee Rogers And James Bracey as Directors

Posted on July 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by Courtney

The North Sydney Bears Rugby League Football Club has appointed media professionals Jaimee Rogers and James Bracey to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.

The appointments follow the resignation of club legend Billy Moore, who stepped down after nearly four decades of service. The Board has passed a resolution to nominate Moore for Life Membership in recognition of his significant contributions.

Strategic Appointments Aligned with NRL Aspirations

The new board members bring extensive experience in media, brand building, and community engagement, as the Bears strengthen their commercial positioning in pursuit of a return to the National Rugby League (NRL).

Jaimee Rogers, known for her work with Sky Racing and Big Sports Breakfast, brings a background in strategic growth and broadcasting, along with strong ties to Sydney’s North Shore.

“It’s an honour to join the board of the North Sydney Bears — a club with a proud and storied history that holds a special place in the heart of rugby league,” said Rogers.

“This is an incredibly exciting time for the Bears as we work towards a long-awaited return to the NRL.”

Rogers’ appointment is expected to enhance the club’s community footprint and expand CSR-led partnerships. Her involvement in initiatives such as Gotcha4Life (mental health) and Our Oceans (conservation) reflects a values-driven leadership approach aligned with modern sporting organisations.

James Bracey Returns with Media Influence and Continuity

James Bracey, Channel Nine’s chief NRL host and a long-time supporter of the club, also joins the board. He previously served as a director and brings both continuity and extensive knowledge of the Australian rugby league media landscape.

“I’ve bled red and black from birth, so it’s an honour to be able to play a part in the Bears’ future,” said Bracey.

With over 15 years of broadcast experience, Bracey’s network and insight into sports storytelling and audience engagement will be vital as the Bears seek to grow brand recognition and commercial reach.

22 Rugby Clubs Benefit from Share of £300,000 via Scottish Gas

Posted on July 11, 2025 by Courtney

Twenty-two rugby clubs across Scotland have been named as the inaugural recipients of a five-year sustainability initiative launched by Scottish Gas. The programme will provide targeted funding to modernise heating and electrical systems, making clubhouses, changing rooms, gyms, and communal spaces more energy-efficient and cost-effective to operate.

The initiative follows a comprehensive survey conducted by Scottish Gas, which identified key operational areas where community clubs could reduce overheads and improve energy usage. Tailored action plans were developed in collaboration with each club, with funding directed towards addressing specific challenges uncovered in the survey.

Rudi Urbach, Scottish Rugby’s Area Director for Caledonia, said the clubs would “benefit significantly” from the initiative, calling the engagement with Scottish Gas both “meaningful and rewarding.” He noted the programme also contributes to broader efforts to achieve net-zero emissions, positioning rugby clubs as leaders in grassroots sustainability.

Preliminary data suggests that clubs could unlock significant savings by adopting behavioural changes and implementing energy upgrades recommended through the programme.

Nic Welsh, Business Development Manager at Strathmore RFC, welcomed the funding, emphasising the importance of providing safe and modern facilities. “Upgrading to sustainable heating and reducing our energy costs will ease financial pressure, allowing us to focus on inclusivity and personal development through sport,” he said.

Karim Awadia, Regional Manager for Net Zero Community Engagement at Scottish Gas, added: “Many sports facilities in Scotland were built decades ago and now require retrofitting to meet modern sustainability standards.”

For more information on the Scottish Gas Net Zero Fund and how it supports local clubs, visit the Scottish Gas website.

NSW Swifts Welcomes Mr. Whippy on Board in Long-term Deal

Posted on July 11, 2025 by Courtney

The NSW Swifts have announced a multi-year partnership with Mr Whippy, naming the iconic Australian ice cream brand as a Major Partner through to the end of the 2028 season.

The deal marks Mr Whippy’s first-ever partnership with a women’s sports team, underscoring a growing commercial interest in female sporting leagues and their connection to community audiences.

Paul Ayoub, General Manager of Mr Whippy, said: “Mr Whippy is an iconic brand in Australia, and when it comes to women in sport, there aren’t many bigger or more respected clubs than the Swifts, so we are delighted to be on board.”

He added that the company looks forward to supporting the team and celebrating its legacy in Australian netball.

The partnership also involves the Dib Group, parent company of Mr Whippy and Metro Petroleum, New South Wales’ largest independent fuel retailer.

Founders John and George Dib highlighted the shared values behind the collaboration: “The Swifts have such important community connections, something we also value thanks to our extensive store network through Metro Petroleum.”

Executive General Manager of the Swifts, Jeremy Butler, welcomed the deal: “Mr Whippy is fun and cherished, much like netball in our community, and we are very happy to see this partnership come to fruition. I’d like to thank Mr Whippy and Metro Petroleum for their support, and we look forward to working closely and collaboratively in the seasons ahead.”

Cultural legacy meets sporting excellence

Founded in 1962, Mr Whippy is a nostalgic staple of Australian culture, known for its classic soft serve and distinctive pink vans. The brand’s move into women’s sport adds another layer to its connection with family audiences and everyday Australians.

The Swifts continue to build momentum both on and off the court, with this partnership enhancing their commercial backing as they pursue long-term success.

Together, the Swifts and Mr Whippy aim to deliver memorable fan experiences and further strengthen the club’s community presence throughout New South Wales.

Villarreal CF renews youth football partnership with 12 clubs

Posted on July 11, 2025 by Courtney

Villarreal CF has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development by renewing and expanding its partnership with 12 grassroots football clubs, aiming to elevate player and coach training ahead of the upcoming season.

The renewed agreement reflects Villarreal’s strategy to strengthen its sporting and methodological model across all levels of the game. The initiative supports the continued integration of best practices in talent development and coaching standards.

Over the years, several players who began their football journeys at these partner clubs have successfully progressed into Cantera Grogueta, Villarreal’s renowned youth system, underscoring the effectiveness of this collaborative development framework.

In addition to the renewed partnerships, Villarreal will maintain its long-standing alliance with CD Roda, further reinforcing its grassroots presence and commitment to fostering local talent.

The expanded network reflects the club’s long-term vision to build a sustainable talent pipeline and strengthen the coaching culture across the region.