Page 97 – Ministry of Sport

Premiership Rugby agrees new TNT Sports deal to 2031

Posted on May 12, 2025May 13, 2025 by Courtney

Premiership Rugby has secured a new television agreement with TNT Sports that will span until the conclusion of the 2030-31 season, a deal that follows an earlier agreement signed in March of this year, which was set to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season.

Under the terms of this arrangement, TNT Sports will continue to broadcast every match of the Premiership Rugby season live, including the play-offs and final, via its linear television channels and the Discovery+ streaming service.

Commenting on, CEO of Premiership Rugby, Simon Massie-Taylor, said: “This extended collaboration enables both entities to invest in the long-term development of the Gallagher Premiership, and we’re genuinely excited for what lies ahead.”

Recent data from TNT Sports revealed an 11% increase in average audience figures after 13 rounds of the current Premiership Rugby season compared to the previous year, reflecting the broadcaster’s commitment to covering every league game comprehensively.

In related news, Premiership Rugby also signed a two-year extension in October with ITV, ensuring the free-to-air broadcast of seven matches per season, including the final, alongside the revamped highlights show, Gallagher Premiership Unleashed.

Additionally, TNT Sports reported an 86% year-on-year rise in average audiences for Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR).

Executive chair of PWR, Genevieve Shore, said the growth in viewing figures from the previous season underscores the potential for PWR, and is optimistic that ongoing collaboration with TNT Sports will continue to elevate women’s rugby.

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EA SPORTS FC™ Mobile, MLS and Apple TV To Produce Live Matches

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Courtney

Electronic Arts Inc. and Major League Soccer (MLS) are set to enhance the viewing experience for EA SPORTS FC™ Mobile players by offering live access to four select matches from the 2025 MLS regular season via the in-game FCM TV portal.

This initiative is made possible through a live simulcast of the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, marking a pivotal step in the ongoing collaboration between EA SPORTS, MLS, and Apple TV, and representing a significant first for EA SPORTS in delivering live sports content to a global audience.

Emphasising the shared vision of fan-first future in football with MLS and Apple TV, VP of EA SPORTS FC Mobile, Lawrence Koh, said: “By being able to watch select live MLS Season Pass matches within EA SPORTS FC Mobile, we’re continuing a commitment to our players to bring them closer to the game they love, by investing in innovation and growing experiences offered through our platform.”

Executive VP at Major League Soccer, Camilo Durana, added: “This collaboration with EA SPORTS and Apple TV underscores MLS’s commitment to pushing boundaries, innovation, and fan-first experiences.”

“By bringing select live MLS Season Pass matches to EA SPORTS FC Mobile, we’re reaching new and digitally native audiences around the world, continuing to broaden the way we’re building relationships with fans.

“It’s easier than ever to experience the excitement of MLS, our Clubs, our world-class players, and our vibrant supporters,” Durana said.

The action commenced last Saturday, May 10, with a highly anticipated rematch of the MLS Cup 2024, presented by Audi, featuring the reigning champions LA Galaxy squared off against the New York Red Bulls.

In addition to the live match, players have access to the Football Centre, an all-in-one hub for the latest updates on global football events, allowing them to engage with the in-game experience and complete a featured Showdown Player Exchange prior to tuning in.

The second match is set to be streamed on FCM TV on May 17, featuring Atlanta United FC facing off against the Philadelphia Union.

Two additional MLS Season Pass matches will be available for streaming within EA SPORTS FC Mobile in September, with specific matchups to be confirmed at a later date.

Bulldogs Partner With Kool Beanz To Open Childcare Centre At New Footscray Hospital

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Courtney

The Western Bulldogs have partnered with Kool Beanz to launch a state-of-the-art childcare centre at the new Footscray Hospital, marking an exciting development for the local community.

This initiative aims to meet the growing demand for accessible, high-quality childcare while integrating vital healthcare services within the same precinct.

Managed by Plenary Health, the group responsible for delivering the new hospital, the childcare centre will be the first Kool Beanz centre in Victoria, catering to up to 90 children.

Commenting on this partnership, Ameet Bains, CEO of the Western Bulldogs,said: “We are proud to announce this exciting new partnership with trusted industry leaders, where we will be able to combine two important pillars of our club – the community and healthcare.”

Bruce Coulson, founder of Kool Beanz, added: “Partnering with the Western Bulldogs and Plenary Health allows us to bring high-quality early education to families in the heart of their community.”

The centre will be part of a broader hospital complex that includes retail outlets, cafés, and medical clinics, with construction expected to create around 30 new jobs, directly supporting local families and contributing to the regional economy.

Set to open later this year, the childcare centre will offer a range of specialised areas designed to foster early childhood development.

The outdoor facilities will feature nature and water play elements, a vegetable garden, a Zen garden, an aviary, and a play zone designed around the Western Bulldogs football club, all ensuring a well-rounded environment for children to learn and play.

This expansion will also enable the hospital to treat an additional 15,000 patients annually and handle 20,000 more emergency department visits each year.

Incoming Blues boss gets more hands-on as CEO transition Approaches

Posted on May 12, 2025May 12, 2025 by Courtney

Carlton has announced the progression of their CEO succession plan, adopting a more proactive role as the halfway point of the season approaches.

Graham Wright was appointed last October, with a mandate to succeed long-serving CEO Brian Cook at the conclusion of the 2025 season.

While Cook remains under contract until October, it’s possible an earlier transition may occur in the latter half of the season.

This shift is evident as Wright has intensified his involvement in the club’s key decision-making processes in recent months.

Following a winless opening month, Wright will start to closely monitor the Blues’ football operations, while also increasing his engagement in the club’s daily management.

Last year, Carlton outlined a “planned and detailed” transition period for Wright alongside Cook, without committing to a specific timeline for the transfer of responsibilities.

However, as the season progresses and attention shifts to 2026 and beyond, an increase in Wright’s authority is anticipated.

Wright brings substantial expertise in list management and football operations, previously instrumental in Hawthorn’s premiership success and playing a pivotal role in Collingwood’s ascent to the 2023 title.

Wright will collaborate with new Carlton president Robert Priestley, who was appointed in February, following Luke Sayers’ departure, to guide the club’s leadership.

BLAST Announces Expansion to U.S. With New York Office

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Courtney

BLAST has officially announced the establishment of its inaugural U.S. office located in New York City, marking a significant milestone in the company’s North American expansion strategy.

This move reflects BLAST’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the esports ecosystem across the United States.

The U.S. stands as a major player in the global esports market, boasting a value exceeding USD$1.3 billion (AUD$2.02 billion) and offering prize pools of over $10 million (AUD$15.6 million) across domestic tournaments this year alone.

This expansion will also foster collaboration with U.S.-based companies and brands, as well as enhance partnerships with North American creators, streamers, and talent agencies for original content development, live event appearances, and branded integrations.

Leading this U.S. venture, chief business officer at BLAST, Leo Matlock, will relocate from Copenhagen to New York City.

Matlock is set to steer the company’s strategic growth within the region, establish a dedicated local team, and cultivate broader relationships with partners in the U.S. market.

Commenting on the expansion, Matlock, said: “We’ve been deeply committed to the growth of esports in the U.S. for six years – hosting some of our most iconic live events here since 2019.”

“Establishing a permanent hub here is a natural next step and also a powerful indicator of our long-term investment in the market.

“We have some incredible live events coming up across North America this year and are excited to continue to advocate this unmatched fandom and to work with national and local partners and brands, creating a positive impact everywhere we are.

“This move further adds to our global expansion efforts in 2025, with offices opening in India and the U.S. this year,” Matlock said.

Projected to host more Tier 1 esports arena events than any other country in 2025, the U.S. will feature a range of upcoming BLAST events, including the FNCS Pro-Am in Los Angeles, the BLAST.tv Austin Major, and the RLCS Raleigh Major.

The New York office is poised to become the North American hub for BLAST, facilitating the delivery of high-calibre esports events and content throughout the region.

With many prominent game publishers operating in North America, this strategic location positions BLAST to forge deeper connections with essential stakeholders and explore new entertainment initiatives tailored specifically for the U.S. audience.

BLAST’s global operations now span three continents and five major esports markets, with existing offices in Copenhagen (its headquarters), London, and Berlin, and forthcoming locations in India and the U.S.

Eight Cities to dazzle the world at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Courtney

FIFA has officially unveiled the eight host cities and their respective stadiums for the historic FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™, marking a significant milestone as South America prepares to host the tournament for the first time.

The announcement was made by FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, alongside esteemed Brazilian dignitaries, celebrating a momentous step in the lead-up to the tournament.

FIFA expressed gratitude to the twelve cities that competed for hosting rights, acknowledging Belém, Cuiabá, Manaus, and Natal for their passion and efforts throughout the selection process.

Infantino assured that the organisation intends to maintain ongoing communication with these cities to explore ways they can also participate in this landmark event.

The announcement, which was broadcasted through FIFA’s channels, featured various celebrities and notable figures from Brazil, amplifying local excitement and engagement as communities begin preparations to host international visitors.

The selection process commenced in August 2024, employing a rigorous and structured approach, where FIFA conducted thorough assessments of the 12 candidate cities, evaluating infrastructure and facilities based on key operational criteria necessary for a successful tournament.

Following this evaluation, a consensus was reached with the Brazilian government and the Brazilian Football Association (CBF) to narrow down the options to eight host cities, ensuring optimal conditions for both the 32 participating teams and the tournament’s overall success.

The chosen cities include:

Belo Horizonte (Estádio Mineirão)
Brasília (Estádio Nacional)
Fortaleza (Arena Castelão)
Porto Alegre (Estádio Beira-Rio)
Recife (Arena de Pernambuco)
Rio de Janeiro (Estádio do Maracanã)
Salvador (Arena Fonte Nova)
São Paulo (Arena Itaquera)

As the selected cities embark on their new roles, FIFA experts will soon arrive to initiate the operational planning phase.

Key upcoming milestones include the announcement of the match schedule and the official brand launch, both of which promise to enhance the anticipation surrounding the tournament and spotlight the vibrant host cities ready to welcome the world in 2027.

Red Sox Drive Mental Health Conversation with Nonprofits.

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Courtney

In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Boston Red Sox have unveiled “Changeup the Conversation,” a new season-long initiative aimed at enhancing mental health support and access across New England.

The programme will formally kick off with pregame ceremonies on May 7, prior to that evening’s matchup between the Red Sox and the Rangers, where the team will honour its six partner nonprofit organisations.

Throughout the season, the Red Sox will highlight one New England-based mental health nonprofit each month, utilising both in-park activities and storytelling via social media.

These monthly themes will encompass various aspects of mental health, including its relationship to sports, stress management strategies, and preventative measures against suicide.

Participants from the featured organisations will have the opportunity to visit Fenway Park to watch batting practice, interact with Red Sox players, and enjoy the game.

To further engage the community, each nonprofit will set up an informational table in the concourse, providing visitors with details about their specific programmes.

Additionally, those who attend will receive goody bags and “Changeup the Conversation” t-shirts, while their narratives will be shared on the Red Sox Community Relations social media platforms, aimed at promoting dialogue and reducing stigma surrounding emotional well-being.

The six partner organisations exemplify a comprehensive spectrum of approaches to mental health, including peer-led support, LGBTQ+ affirming environments, sport-based therapy, and suicide prevention initiatives.

These organisations and their missions include:

Active Minds: This organisation mobilises young adults to openly discuss mental health and foster communities of support within schools and universities nationwide.
Doc Wayne: As a therapy provider, Doc Wayne employs sports and play to address mental health concerns, offering both individual and group sessions for youth and adults, alongside training for caregivers and professionals.
KyleCares: Focused on facilitating candid conversations regarding mental health challenges faced by teens and young adults, KyleCares promotes education and awareness while implementing suicide prevention programmes in high schools and colleges across New England.
OUT MetroWest: This organisation is dedicated to fostering supportive communities for LGBTQ+ youth, connecting them with peers and affirming adult role models.
Samaritans: Operating across Massachusetts, Samaritans provides suicide prevention resources and grief support services. They offer a 24/7 helpline, peer-to-peer texting for youth, community education initiatives, and survivor support programmes.
The Jed Foundation: This nonprofit is committed to safeguarding emotional health and preventing suicide among teenagers and young adults. By partnering with educational institutions, The Jed Foundation strengthens mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention programmes, equipping young people with essential skills and knowledge.

“Changeup the Conversation” is spearheaded by the Red Sox Community Relations team and aligns with Major League Baseball’s ongoing commitment to promoting mental wellness within the league.

By connecting fans with local partners and amplifying authentic experiences, this initiative aims to cultivate a culture of openness, support, and resilience both within Fenway Park and in the wider community.

Basketball Australia asked to investigate claims in owners’ spat

Posted on May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 by Courtney

Basketball’s international governing body, FIBA, has passed an investigation concerning billionaire NBL owner Larry Kestelman’s alleged conflict of interest to Basketball Australia, indicating that the matter falls outside its jurisdiction.

Crest Sport and Entertainment (Crest SE), the ownership group of the reigning champions, the Illawarra Hawks, has reached out to competing clubs, urging them to report any potential prohibited conduct to Basketball Australia for further investigation.

Vice chairman of Crest SE, Terry Egger, said that the group has “taken the brunt” of Kestelman’s retaliation and that of the privately owned National Basketball League (NBL) regarding these allegations, thus encouraging rival clubs to come forward with their experiences.

Egger emphasised that Crest is prepared to provide documentation to assist Basketball Australia’s probe, in correspondence sent to the NBL clubs on Wednesday.

Egger further asserted that Crest and the Hawks had already endured significant retaliation, suggesting that any other owners who share Crest’s concerns would not face the same challenges by participating in the process now.

Since 2015, the league has been under the private ownership of Kestelman, a co-founder of the telecommunications company Dodo, and he is also a part-owner of the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL).

Kestelman has faced increased scrutiny following the Illawarra Hawks’ ownership filing a claim with the Supreme Court, raising concerns about the operational management of the league.

Crest Sport, owned by Jared Novelly, is seeking access to documentation reflecting the NBL’s financial health and alleges that the league has consistently breached its licensing agreement by failing to disclose third-party transactions involving Kestelman’s companies.

Kestelman has also requested an investigation from FIBA, with Egger noting that FIBA has instructed Basketball Australia to investigate and address the allegations raised.

Egger expressed his belief in Basketball Australia’s ability to conduct a proper investigation into Kestelman’s conflicts of interest, citing his interests in the WNBL and related agreements.

Egger, noted: “We know Basketball Australia is focused on ensuring the success and integrity of the game in Australia,”

“We intend to engage with Basketball Australia to understand how it will ensure that any investigation is realised in a thorough, transparent, and independent manner,” he said

In response to the ongoing concerns, Kestelman has consistently denied any lack of transparency and has enlisted KordaMentha to review documentation related to the Hawks amidst accusations of licence breaches.

Tensions intensified last week when the NBL reversed its decision to appoint a new company for running travel arrangements after it was disclosed that Kestelman holds part-ownership in the agency.

Toyota NZ, New Zealand Rugby Team Up In Three-Year Partnership

Posted on May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 by Courtney

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and Toyota New Zealand (TNZ) have formalised a new three-year partnership to supporting Aotearoa’s national rugby teams.

The agreement designates Toyota as the Official Mobility Partner for an extensive roster of teams, including the All Blacks, Black Ferns, Māori All Blacks, All Blacks Sevens, Black Ferns Sevens, All Blacks XV, and New Zealand Under 20s.

As a part of this partnership, Toyota branding will be prominently displayed across training jerseys, training kits for each team, and during test matches.

Commenting on the partnership, NZR CEO, Mark Robinson said: “We are thrilled to be announcing a three-year partnership with Toyota today.”

“Toyota is a highly respected and incredibly well-known brand, and we are excited about what we can achieve together,

“Much like rugby, Toyota is deeply embedded in the fabric of New Zealand life.

“The shared values and strategic alignment between our organisations have made this partnership a natural fit.

“Having a global partnership with a New Zealand-based organisation of this calibre presents a significant opportunity to collaborate, as we support our national teams and advance New Zealand’s national sport,” he said.

Toyota New Zealand CEO, Tatsuya Ishikawa added: “Announcing a partnership with an iconic brand like New Zealand Rugby is a big moment.

“As a nation, we are united in our pride for our national sports heroes and heroines. Our vision for ‘Let’s Go Places’ is about bringing everyone on our journey to becoming a mobility company and moving forward together.

“Sport is a powerful connector, and we are excited to work with NZR to engage even more meaningfully with our local communities,” Ishikawa noted.

For Toyota New Zealand, this partnership provides an opportunity to engage with local communities and leverage the global visibility of New Zealand Rugby to enhance their brand’s connection to the sport.

It also promises significant value, particularly in its support for all national teams and in fostering engagement with Kiwi fans during key events throughout the rugby calendar.

NBA Playoffs Ratings Up 6%, Warriors-Rockets Sets Game 7 Record

Posted on May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 by Courtney

The NBA has effectively leveraged its historic viewership during a holiday weekend to achieve an increase in their TV ratings.

In the first round of the 2024/25 postseason, the playoffs averaged 3.7 million viewers across networks including ABC, ESPN, and TNT, marking a 6% increase from last year’s average of 3.5 million, according to Nielsen.

A contributing factor to this rise was the average of 4.4 million viewers during the Playoffs’ opening night, which coincided with the Easter holiday.

This was also the NBA’s most-watched weekend in 25 years, reflecting a 17% increase from the prior year.

Comprising both ABC and ESPN, the average audience reached 4.46 million viewers over the course of 12 games, which is a 14% uptick from last year’s figures.

ABC led the ratings with an average of 5.56 million viewers across six games, marking a 14% increase, while the six games on ESPN recorded a 10% rise.

These figures resonate with the regular season’s performance, where ABC experienced a similar 10% rise, despite an overall 2% decline in national TV viewership plugged by reduced cable game broadcasts.

TNT reported an average viewership of 3.3 million across its 25 first-round playoff games, demonstrating a modest 3% growth from last year.

A standout moment in this round was Game 7 between the Warriors and Rockets, which attracted 6.6 million viewers, making it the most-watched first-round Game 7 on cable since 2009.

This game was the third-most-watched of the first round, surpassed only by two ABC weekend matchups: Game 4 of the Lakers vs. Timberwolves (7.4 million viewers) and Game 1 of Magic vs. Celtics (6.7 million viewers).

Looking ahead, the NBA’s challenge lies in sustaining this momentum as it transitions into the second round, following the elimination of star players such as LeBron James and Luka Dončić along with the Lakers.

During the regular season, the Lakers featured in the most-watched game (against the Warriors on Christmas Day), the most-viewed non-Christmas game (against the Celtics on March 8), and the leading non-Christmas, non-opening-night game on cable (versus the Mavericks on February 25).

Federal Government Funds $70 Million Victorian Netball Development

Posted on May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 by Courtney

Netball communities throughout Victoria are poised for a substantial boost in infrastructure following the federal election.

The Albanese Labor Government has pledged over AUD$70 million aimed at developing new and upgrading existing local sports facilities.

Several key projects are set to receive significant funding, including a new pavilion at Templeton Reserve in Wantirna, which will receive $3 million, and major renovation works at Drysdale Football & Netball Club, allocated $5.45 million.

Additionally, the North Bendigo Recreation Reserve is earmarked for AUD$3 million, while the Nunawading Indoor Sports Centre will undergo an expansion costing AUD$45 million.

This funding will also extend support to venues in Werribee, Whittlesea, Somerville, Sunbury, and Fish Creek, creating safer and more inclusive environments for netball players across both metropolitan and regional areas.

Some funding commitments include:

Nunawading basketball centre in Burwood East renewal – $45 m (Chisholm, Vic)
New boutique rectangular stadium at Casey Fields– $10.68 m (Bruce / Holt, Vic)
Drysdale Football & Netball Club upgrade -$5.45 m (Corangamite, Vic)
Portarlington Recreation Reserve upgrade – $5.45m
Soldiers Reserve Pavilion Werribee construction – $5 m (Lalor, Vic)

Netball Victoria has welcomed this financial commitment, recognising its potential to enhance participation opportunities and bolster local communities.

Football Australia CEO Resigns After 5 Year Tenure

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Courtney

In a significant development for Australian football, Football Australia CEO, James Johnson, has announced his resignation from the role, concluding a five and a half year tenure marked by notable achievements and challenges.

Under his stewardship, Australian football not only navigated the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic but also reached unprecedented levels of participation, showcasing the sport’s resilience.

Commenting on his departure, Johnson, said: “It has been a privilege to lead Football Australia for the past 5½ years, having had the pleasure to work alongside the most talented, committed and dedicated staff, executives and board members.”

“As someone who is immensely passionate about Australian football, this decision has not come easy, but I believe the time is right to step down.

“I want to extend my thank you to the Football Australia Board and everyone within the Australian football community for their support during my tenure. Football is a local and global sport so no matter where I am, I will always be here to support Football Australia and Australian football,” he said.

Johnson played a crucial role in establishing a 15-year Vision for Football Australia, which has facilitated record revenue growth and introduced pivotal reforms such as club licensing regulations and significant adjustments to the player transfer system.

His efforts also revitalised the Australia Cup, enhancing its connections with Asia through the AFC Club Competitions.

One of the crown jewels of Johnson’s tenure was leading the successful bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™, a milestone event that has been widely acclaimed and considered a cultural watershed for sport in Australia.

Additionally, he oversaw the successful acquisition of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™, further solidifying Australia’s position on the global football stage.

His leadership helped elevate both the men’s and women’s national teams into globally recognised brands, with both sides achieving their best-ever results during the FIFA World Cup 2022™ and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.

In the wake of Johnson’s departure, the Board of Football Australia has appointed current director and former Matildas player Heather Garriock as the Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Finally, Johnson will support the Board to finalise key projects and ensure a smooth transition to the next CEO.

Perth Bears Set To Become 18th NRL Team

Posted on May 9, 2025May 8, 2025 by Courtney

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has formalised a significant agreement with the Western Australian Government to establish the National Rugby League’s (NRL) 18th franchise in Perth, set to commence in 2027.

This partnership marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of rugby league in Australia, reintroducing a team to WA while also reviving the North Sydney Bears.

The deal between both parties will see the Western Australia taxpayers cover AUD$60 million over the next seven years in direct financial support, as well as a further AUD$5.6 million in matchday and marketing assistance.

ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM said the announcement is a transformative event for rugby league, underscoring the natural fit of a franchise in Western Australia’s thriving economic environment.

“Rugby League is the biggest sport in Australia and the Pacific, so a team in the economic powerhouse of Western Australia is a natural fit. Why should West Australian fans miss out on the greatest game for all?” V’landys said.

“Western Australians love sport, and now they have the opportunity to get behind a Perth-based Rugby League Club that will capture the hearts and minds of fans across the country.

“As a foundation club, the Bears have a rich history in the game and automatically provide hundreds of thousands of East Coast supporters for the Perth-based team.

“The heritage of the Bears combined with the energy of the West will have this team flying from the outset.

“Thanks to Roger Cook and the Government’s partnership and investment, we expect to double Rugby League participation in WA over the next five years.”

NRL CEO, Andrew Abdo, added: “There has never been a more exciting time to be part of Rugby League, and we are excited for sports fans in Western Australia and the country who will no doubt get behind the Perth-based team when it enters the competition in 2027.”

Additionally, Western Australia Premier, Roger Cook, emphasised the positive ramifications for both sports fans and the local economy.

“A new WA NRL club will deliver jobs and new economic activity, including a boost in tourism and visitation as the WA brand is exposed to millions across Australia and overseas,” Cook said.

This agreement is set to usher in a new era for rugby league in Western Australia, promising engaging competition and strengthening the league’s footprint in one of Australia’s most promising sporting landscapes.

Phillies Set To Host 13th Phantastic Auction

Posted on May 9, 2025May 8, 2025 by Courtney

The Philadelphia Phillies, in partnership with Audacy’s SportsRadio 94WIP, are set to host the 13th edition of the Phantastic Auction, a charitable initiative that provides fans with the opportunity to bid on unique experiences and memorabilia associated with the team.

This event, which takes place online, gives supporters a chance to contribute to good causes while purchasing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities tied to the franchise.

This year’s auction features 68 exclusive experiences, including a Wiffle ball party with All-Star infielder Bryce Harper, a Home Run Derby with Kyle Schwarber, and private lessons in hitting and pitching with J.T. Realmuto and Zack Wheeler, respectively.

Other highlights include a golf outing with Phillies legend, Cole Hamels and a baseball cards party curated by pitcher, Matt Strahm.

These offerings are designed to bring fans closer to their heroes, creating memorable moments that extend beyond the game.

In addition to experiences, the auction also showcases an extensive collection of memorabilia available for bidding.

Participants can place bids on signed items, such as a set of bats from the current Phillies roster and a historically significant collection of Hall of Fame autographs featuring legends like Billy Wagner and Robin Roberts.

Fans can explore the complete list of auction items through the dedicated webpage at phillies.com/phantasticauction, with bidding running until Sunday, May 18.

Notably, a portion of all proceeds will benefit ALS United Mid-Atlantic and Phillies Charities, Inc., reinforcing the team’s commitment to supporting community initiatives.

The Phantastic Auction has been a resounding success, raising over $2.3 million for various charitable causes since its inception.

Last year’s event set a new milestone, generating USD$548,200, showcasing the generosity and support of the Phillies’ fanbase.

For those interested in participating, the auction presents numerous opportunities ranging from exclusive player experiences to coveted memorabilia.

Highlights of the 2025 Phantastic Auction include:

Player, Coach, and Front Office Experiences:

Kid’s Wiffle Ball Party with Bryce Harper
Private Lessons with All-Star Players
Home Run Derby with Kyle Schwarber
Catching and Hitting Secrets from J.T. Realmuto
Miniature Golf with Alec Bohm and Brandon Marsh

Alumni Experiences:

A dinner party with Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt
Behind-the-scenes stadium tours with Phillies legends
Block parties with ambassadors and the Phillie Phanatic

Exclusive Memorabilia:

Autographed baseballs and jerseys from current and former players
Collections celebrating key historical moments in Phillies history

The continued success of the Phantastic Auction reflects the ongoing relationship between the Phillies organisation and its passionate fanbase.

Timbers to commemorate Asian-American Pacific Islander Night with Exclusive scarf

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Courtney

The Portland Timbers have announced their Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Night on May 28, when they host the Colorado Rapids at Providence Park.

The event will showcase AAPI culture through performances by local talents, including Pop R&B artist, Rachel Wong and the Portland Taiko troupe.

Fans can also enjoy a prematch Haka by the Teva Oriata Polynesian Dance Troupe and a half-time Tinikling performance by the Filipino American Friendship Club of Oregon.

A key feature of the evening will be a limited-edition scarf designed by local artist Ricky Gaspar.

Commenting on diversity, Ricky Gaspar, said: “I took the energy and passion for this sport, this city, and this team and tried to tie that to the same passion and energy that the AAPI community and peoples of the Pacific are known for as well.”

Available exclusively to ticket holders, the scarf highlights the rich heritage of the AAPI community, where its design incorporates native Austronesian patterns and Polynesian nature motifs.

This bold statement is accompanied by patterns representing regions from Hawaii to the Philippines, creating a visual representation of cultural pride.

On the opposite side, the scarf’s gold design pays tribute to the “Rose City Til’ I Die” mantra.

The scarf is available in limited quantities and can be pre-ordered as part of a ticket package, but will also be sold on matchday at PTFC Authentics locations at Providence Park.