Author Archives: Jerry Milani

About Jerry Milani

Jerry Milani is a freelance writer and public relations executive living in Bloomfield, N.J. He has worked in P.R. for more than 30 years in college and conference sports media relations, two agencies and for the International Fight League, a team-based mixed martial arts league, and variouis sports and entertainment properties. Milani is a proud graduate of Fordham University and when not attending a Yankees or Rams game can be reached at Jerry (at) JerryMilani (dot) com.

American Association Announces Agreement With RYZ Sports Network

The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) and RYZ Sports Network are pleased to announce a groundbreaking league-wide television partnership beginning in 2025.

The partnership kicks off with television broadcasts featuring the 2024 AAPB Champion Kane County Cougars, who will represent the AAPB, the United States, and Canada in the prestigious Baseball Champions League. This event, hosted by the World Baseball Softball Confederation, is scheduled for April 8–13, 2025, in Mexico City, Mexico, at Alfredo Harp Stadium. The tournament’s second edition, hosted by the Mexico City Diablos, will showcase six championship clubs from the highest professional baseball leagues in Cuba, Curaçao, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the United States/Canada.

During the 2025 regular season, the RYZ Sports Network will televise two games per week featuring teams from across the American Association. Following the conclusion of the regular season, RYZ will also broadcast the AAPB playoffs, where teams will compete for the coveted Miles Wolff Cup.

The RYZ Sports Network is a live 24/7 sports network that is currently available on Samsung Plus TV and will be available on Xumo Play on Google TV beginning on January 9th.

“This agreement extends the television reach of the American Association and significantly expands our viewership in the United States beyond our 12 home markets. This is a win for our players, our fans, and our sponsors,” said Joshua Schaub, AAPB Commissioner.

“The American Association of Professional Baseball embodies the essence and purity of America’s game, and we are thrilled to be showcasing them on RYZ Sports Network for years to come,” said Hammad Zaidi, Co-Founder and CEO of RYZ Sports Network.

Game On Sports & Performance Center Partners with 360 Hoops to Introduce a Revolutionary New Sport to Massachusetts

Game On Fitchburg is proud to announce a market-exclusive partnership with 360 Hoops™, being the first to bring the innovative game to New England.

Played on a circular court, 360 Hoops blends the spirit of traditional basketball with a dynamic twist. At the heart of the experience is the 360 Hoop, a patented three-in-one design that allows players to score on any of three baskets. The unique 3v3v3 format fosters teamwork, strategy, and endless fun. With easily adjustable hoop heights, every player can feel the thrill of a slam dunk — making the game accessible, exciting, and unforgettable for everyone.

“Partnering with 360 Hoops allows us to bring a first-of-its-kind experience to kids and families in the New England area,” said Dean Hirtle, Senior Vice President of Game On. “360 Hoops will bring a new level of energy to the complex, blending fun, teamwork, and friendly competition to create a truly unique and memorable experience.”

On February 7th, Game On Fitchburg will host a Ribbon Cutting Invitational to celebrate the new partnership with 360 Hoops and give the community an opportunity to experience the new game firsthand. The free event will run from 5 PM to 8 PM, with local youth athletes, parents, coaches, and teachers invited to join in the fun and play.

Two 3v3v3 Tournaments are scheduled for 2025 so far. The two-day events will be held on June 14-15 and July 19-20, with each player guaranteed 8 games across the tournament.

“We’re beyond thrilled to partner with Game On Fitchburg and their incredible team,” said Anthony Gomez, Co-Founder of 360 Hoops. “This partnership is a significant milestone as we build 360 Hoops across the country, starting with this amazing complex and Dean in the state of Massachusetts.”

The real game-changer? 360 Hoops transforms space like never before. A single traditional basketball court can be converted into up to five 360 Hoops courts, allowing up to 60 players to compete in the same area where standard basketball accommodates just 10. With its portable design and emphasis on inclusivity, 360 Hoops is redefining how sports facilities and communities engage with young athletes.

Beyond introducing the new game within the walls of its first-class facility, Game On and 360 Hoops have set a bold vision to bring the 360 Hoops Experience to every surrounding elementary and middle school in the area. Starting in the fall of 2025, each elementary and middle school will be invited to participate in the 360 Hoops Experience, where 360 Hoops will integrate into the school’s physical education classes and afterschool programs in two-week rotations. In those two weeks, each school will also have the opportunity to host an all day event fundraiser to raise funds for the school, or a charity of their choosing.

With this landmark partnership in place, 360 Hoops is set to announce further partnerships in select markets across the United States, bringing this first-of-its-kind experience to players everywhere.

360 Hoops Co-Founder, Coach Shane Brey, expressed his excitement about the future of 360 Hoops, adding, “Our goal is to make 360 Hoops a staple in youth sports, and this partnership with Game On Fitchburg is just the beginning. We are eager to see the positive impact it will bring to athletes and the community here in New England, and we’re excited for what’s to come.”

Green and Gold, Starring Craig T. Nelson and Presented by Fathom Events, Premieres Nationwide on January 31

Fathom proudly presents Green and Gold in theatres nationwide on January 31, 2025. Starring legendary and multiple EMMY and Golden Globes®-nominated actor Craig T. Nelson (Parenthood, Coach), Brandon Sklenar (It Ends with Us), Annabel Armour (Contagion), Madison Lawlor (Juniper), and the late M. Emmet Walsh in his final performance, Green and Gold tells the story of a fourth-generation dairy farmer fighting to preserve his family’s land and legacy against overwhelming odds. Featuring music by Jackson Browne and S. Carey, the film highlights the resilience of small-town America.

Foreclosure looms over Wisconsin dairy farmer Buck (Craig T. Nelson). With mounting debt and the land his family has cultivated for four generations at risk, Buck refuses to give up his legacy without a fight. Buck’s granddaughter (Madison Lawlor) works alongside him but dreams of a career in music. Her aspirations are fanned by an emerging friendship with a famous musician (Brandon Sklenar), but chasing her dreams might take her far from the farm. With time running out, Buck places a daring Super Bowl bet on his beloved Green Bay Packers, risking it all to save everything he holds dear.

Green and Gold highlights small-town farmers’ vital role as stewards of the land and pillars of their communities. Over the past 5 years alone, America has lost more than 140,000 family farms, but their resilient spirit endures. The film highlights hard work, love for the land, and commitment to preserving legacies for future generations.

Set against the backdrop of the 1990s, Green and Gold celebrates the enduring spirit of family, community, and football focusing on the heartwarming and triumphant journey of a small-town farmer.

Nelson remarked, “This story felt personal to me, I felt a real connection to it because the Nelson family farm has been a working farm in South Dakota since the Civil War, and my wife’s family were also farmers. Green and Gold captures the tenacity of small-town farmers and the strength of family and community. I was honored to play Buck and highlight the dreams defining many lives in America’s heartland.”

Director Anders Lindwall expressed, “Growing up just north of Green Bay as the grandson of a dairy farmer and die-hard Packers fans, my brother Davin and I poured our hearts into this film. It’s our tribute to small-town communities and the values they stand for.”

Ray Nutt, CEO at Fathom added, “Fathom is thrilled to bring Green and Gold to theatres nationwide. Audiences will soon discover how beautifully this film captures the drive in all of us to hold onto our dreams.”

This meaningful film is presented in collaboration with Culver’s and the Green Bay Packers, the nation’s only community-owned professional football team. Culver’s small-town Wisconsin roots give the restaurant franchise a true heart for agriculture and inspired the creation of its Thank You Farmers® Project, which has donated more than $6.5 million to ensure a sustainable food supply for the future.

As for the Green Bay Packers, this marks the team’s first time partnering with a feature film on this level, adding a unique depth to the story. “Green and Gold portrays the story of Packers fans’ devotion to legacy and community—it is a must-see. We are proud to be part of a story celebrating supporting one another and showcasing the critical role that family farms play across our great state of Wisconsin and beyond,” said Packers director of corporate partnership sales & activations, Justin Wolf.

Green and Gold is directed by Anders Lindwall and produced by Davin Lindwall and Aaron Boyd. Dan Visser, Darren Moorman, Scott Pomeroy, Craig Cheek, and Brooks Malberg executive produce the feature film. The screenplay was written by Steven Shafer, Michael Graf, Missy Mareau Garcia, and Anders Lindwall.

Green and Gold was named an Official Selection and Audience Award Winner at the 2024 Austin Film Festival. The film received Official Selection and Audience Choice at the Heartland Film Festival for its compelling storytelling and emotional depth.

For more information, visit greenandgoldmovie.com and on social IG, FB @greenandgoldmovie

Global Fight League Announces Initial Funding and Sets Launch Plan for New Team-Based MMA Property

The Global Fight League, a new team-based MMA property, today announced that it has successfully closed a multi-million-dollar seed round and is set to launch its first season in April 2025. The league will hold a virtual selection process to determine the fighters on each team on January 24, the details of which will be released in the coming weeks.

The GFL will combine team and city-based competition with a new level of empowerment for male and female fighters across all stages of their career, offering profit sharing on all events from the very start.

“Our new league is a logical evolution for MMA,” said Darren Owen, longtime global MMA event promoter, entrepreneur, and Founder of the Global Fight League. “Our mission is to embrace fighters as true equitable partners from inception and, together, create a format that can be understood by any sports fan. I’ve had hundreds of conversations with MMA legends and rising stars and our business plan is an extension of what I have heard from fighters who want a new way to compete and excel in the world’s fastest growing sport.”

Many of the sport’s most notable fighters have been assembled to compete in the inaugural GFL season including: Tyron Woodley, Luke Rockhold, Wanderlei Silva, Anthony Pettis, Fabricio Werdum, Junior Dos Santos, Andrei Arlovski, Frank Mir, Benson Henderson, Gegard Mousasi, Alexander Gustafsson, Hector Lombard, Kevin Lee, Abubakar Nurmagomedov, Hannah Goldy and Marlon Moraes, who will serve as the Head of the GFL’s Athlete Association.

The GFL is pioneering a 50% event-specific revenue share model that ensures athletes benefit from the league’s success. This revolutionary structure prioritizes fighters’ financial security and professional well-being.

The GFL is committed to providing unparalleled financial benefits while prioritizing fighter health and safety. Additionally, the league will actively work to eliminate extreme weight-cutting practices to foster a healthier and more sustainable environment for athletes. This initiative reflects the league’s commitment to protecting its athletes and promoting longevity in their careers.

The league will launch with six teams based in major global markets. Competitions will span the world, culminating in a playoff and a championship that will establish the GFL’s position as a world-class experience for athletes and fans alike. Teams will be coached by some of MMA’s most respected figures, including Rafael Cordeiro, with team managers such as Lyoto Machida bringing exceptional expertise.

Marlon Moraes, Head of the GFL Athlete Association, remarked, “This is a new chapter for fighters. The GFL is built on fairness, respect, and opportunity. Fighters now have a voice and a stake in the sport’s future.”

With MMA’s undeniable global popularity, the GFL is the natural progression of a sport that transcends borders. By combining a historically proven team-based league model with a commitment to athlete equity, the GFL aims to help the MMA industry innovate and set a new gold standard in professional sports.

Moonshot and CTH Advisors Join Forces to Leverage National Security Tech to Protect Sports Executives, Athletes, Events and Organizations

Moonshot, one of the fastest growing companies in the national security space, and CTH Advisors, an investment banking and advisory firm specializing in sports, media and entertainment, have announced a strategic partnership to combat the rising digital threats in the sports industry.

Moonshot has secured over $20 million in U.S. government contracts to protect schools, national infrastructure, and public figures from terrorism. This initiative will leverage that technology to deliver best-in-class national security solutions to elite athletes, officials, and sports organizations.

Moonshot’s technology is already being used by major sports institutions, including the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Moonshot is responsible for protecting all Team USA athletes from online threats on behalf of USOPC.

As digital threats become more sophisticated, from AI-generated deepfakes to coordinated doxxing, the sports industry is increasingly vulnerable to both reputational and physical harm. One in five players at major international sporting events, such as the Women’s World Cup, experience significant online abuse. Female athletes face disproportionate volumes of online threats, much like the national security space where Moonshot has found that 92% of women in public life experience abuse online.

This is not just about protecting the mental health and wellbeing of athletes. What happens online doesn’t stay online. This is even more pronounced in cases of stalking and fixated persons, where offline action is more likely to take place. Major events and venues are also increasingly targeted by terrorists—this summer, Taylor Swift canceled her Vienna concerts due to terrorist threats.

Moonshot’s origins in the national security sector make them uniquely primed to protect the sports industry from a wide array of threats. Moonshot have developed a unique AI model, specially trained in advanced detection and threat assessment across several harm types: threats to life, terrorism, stalking and fixated persons, intimate image abuse, AI-generated deepfakes, conspiracy theories, and abuse.

They also take action. They offer an end-to-end service—the same service deployed by the U.S. government to disrupt terror attacks—which will be deployed to proactively mitigate threats to the sports industry. Already in 2024, Moonshot has:

Taken action on over 200 cases of intimate image abuse against athletes, including deepfake pornography.
Escalated over 20 threats to life against athletes directly to law enforcement.
Removed impersonator accounts for commissioners, athletes, and agents, within 24 hours, by leveraging their unique partnerships with major platforms.
Achieved a platform removal rate for abuse content 5x higher than average.
Worked with law enforcement to disrupt one terrorist plot.

This critical initiative will address the growing dangers the sports industry faces from online threats and misinformation, and their impact on sport integrity and athlete mental health.

“Athletes and officials deserve the best-in-class technology to ensure their safety. We deploy the same technology to protect elite athletes as we do to protect the nation on behalf of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security,” said Vidhya Ramalingam, CEO of Moonshot. “Through our partnership with CTH Advisors we are bringing these critical tools into the sporting world, just in time—as the online threat environment becomes even more complex.”

Moonshot will provide the sports industry with:

Threat Monitoring: Utilizing Moonshot’s proven technologies to monitor online abuse, criminal activity, and threats of offline violence across a wide range of digital platforms.
Threat Mitigation: Developing a holistic strategy to address and proactively mitigate those threats online. As part of that strategy, Moonshot will take action through its unique partnerships with social media platforms.
Digital Security Training: Equipping athletes, teams, and sports executives with the knowledge and tools to minimize their exposure to digital threats through comprehensive digital security training.

“Like many others, we are dismayed by the constant news of cyberbullying, doxxing, and other threats against organizations and athletes. CTH Advisors is thrilled to work alongside Moonshot on this critical initiative,” said Andy Brusman, CEO of CTH Advisors. “Together, we aim to provide the sports industry with a comprehensive framework to tackle the digital challenges of today, ensuring a safer and more resilient environment for athletes and fans alike.”

This collaboration will help sports organizations, leagues, and clubs better navigate the rapidly changing digital landscape while maintaining a strong focus on safeguarding their most important assets—their athletes. With Moonshot’s expertise in protecting high-profile events such as the Paris 2024 Summer Games and organizations like the SEC, along with CTH Advisors’ extensive experience advising leading sports businesses, this partnership is set to redefine how the sports industry approaches security and growth.

Third Annual Coach Knapp Campaign Returns With Joint Stair Climb Prior To Thursday Night Football

Thursday night at MetLife Stadium, the New York Jets and Houston Texans will combine efforts for this season’s first join stair climb, taking place at approximately 5:30 PM. Then on Sunday prior to their game at Nissan Stadium against the New England Patriots, the Tennessee Titans will join this year’s participants. The week will end on Monday, with the Boston College Eagles running the steps of Alumni Stadium in Newton, Mass. as part of their return to play week when the face another Knapp Stair Climb participant, Syracuse University.

Nearly half of the NFL and over a dozen NCAA teams are participating in this fall’s “Coach Knapp Stair Climb,” the largest number in the brief three-year history of the event.

In honor of Coach Knapp, NFL coaches, players, executives and alumni will participate in raising funds and awareness at each NFL stadium prior to team warmups. Teams confirmed to participate in the stair climb include: Packers, Colts, Titans, Rams, Jets, Browns, Texans, 49ers, Commanders, Falcons. Participating NCAA teams include: Boston College, Oregon State University, Georgia State University, University of Oregon, University of Houston, Syracuse University, Sacramento State, Boston College, Butler University, East Carolina University, Ripon College, Rice University, and the University of Utah.

Over 500 coaches, players and staff will be participating in various forms on game days, easily eclipsing the goal of 20+ participating teams.

The fund, which has raised over $250,000 to date already, was created by Greg’s wife, Charlotte, and close friend and agent, Jeff Sperbeck, to honor the legacy of Greg Knapp who tragically passed away in July 2021 after being hit by a distracted driver while he was bicycling. Coach Knapp was known for climbing the stadium stairs before every single NFL game he coached over his 25 season career. All will be tagged #knappstairclimb on social platforms.

At the time of his passing, Knapp was recently named Passing Game Coordinator of the New York Jets under head coach Robert Saleh, after serving as an assistant coach for over a quarter of a century.

Los Angeles Edges New York In Seven In Strat-O-Matic Simulation

Tommy Edman had a series-best .435 average, hit two home runs and drove in six runs, Teoscar Hernandez plated seven and Mookie Betts had 10 hits as Los Angeles topped New York, four games to three, as Strat-O-Matic (@strat-o-matic), the market leader in sports simulation games, simulated the championship series which begins tonight.

In the decisive Game Seven, Hernandez’s single plated Betts with the go-ahead run that gave L.A. a 2-1 edge. The hosts would add another in the bottom of the sixth on a solo home run by Will Smith, and on a bullpen day, Blake Treinen pitched two perfect innings, fanning four, as the last of eight Los Angeles pitchers in the game, for his third save of the series.

Los Angeles rallied from a 3-1 series deficit, getting five-inning starts from Jack Flaherty and Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Games Five and Six to send it to the winner-take-all contest in L.A.

Betts hit .370 in the seven games with a home run and seven RBI. In the battle between probable league MVPs, New York’s Aaron Judge (.346, two home runs, three RBI) and Shohei Ohtani (.231, two HR, six RBI) were fairly even, while Giancarlo Stanton had three home runs and drove in six in the series.

Game 1

New York……. 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 – 3 6 4

Los Angeles…. 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 – 4 7 0

WP: Vesia; LP: Hill; SV: Treinen

HR: Soto, Stanton

Game 2

New York……. 0 3 2 1 4 1 0 0 2 – 13 15 0

Los Angeles…. 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 – 4 8 0

WP: Leiter; LP: Yamamoto

HR: Wells, Chisholm, Volpe, Rizzo, T. Hernandez

Game 3

Los Angeles…. 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 – 4 7 0

New York……. 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 – 5 8 0

WP: Weaver; LP: Kopech

HR: Edman, Judge

Game 4

Los Angeles…. 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 – 1 4 2

New York……. 2 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 – 7 7 0

WP: Gil; LP: Brasier

HR: T. Hernandez, Soto

Game 5

Los Angeles…. 0 0 2 0 3 0 0 0 0 – 5 8 0

New York……. 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 – 4 5 1

WP: Flaherty; LP: Cole; SV: Treinen

HR: Ohtani 2, Wells 2, Stanton

Game 6

New York……. 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 – 1 8 0

Los Angeles…. 3 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 – 7 11 0

WP: Yamamoto; LP: Rodon

HR: Stanton, Betts, Edman

Game 7

New York……. 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 – 1 2 0

Los Angeles…. 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 – 3 7 0

WP: Banda; LP: Schmidt; SV: Treinen

HR: Judge, Smith

American Association 2025 Season Highlights: May 8 Opening Night, All-Star Game, Expanded Playoffs

The American Association of Professional Baseball, North America’s premier MLB Professional Partner League has released the 2025 regular season schedule.

The American Association’s 100-game season will open on Thursday, May 8 with a pair of games featuring the Miles Wolff Cup Champion Kane County Cougars hosting the Sioux City Explorers and the Cleburne Railroaders hosting the Winnipeg Goldeyes. The remainder of the league will open play on Friday, May 9 with a full slate of six games.

All games in 2025 will be free for fans to view live on the league’s streaming platform, American Association TV. In 2024, the league dropped the paywall for live games and saw viewership nearly double across all platforms. In addition to the league’s streaming platform, in 2025 fans will be able to watch an expanded slate of games via Gray Media local and regional affiliates and nationally on Fubo Sports and other national carriers.

The Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks will host the American Association All-Star Game and festivities at Newman Outdoor Field on July 21-22, and the season will conclude with the league’s traditional Labor Day games on September 1.

Following the 100-game regular season, the top four clubs in each division will vie for the Miles Wolff Cup starting September 3. In 2025, the Division Championship Series will expand to a best-of-five series. The playoffs will culminate with a best-of-five Wolff Cup Final series starting on September 15.

The American Association remains split into the East Division and West Division for the 2025 season. The East Division is comprised of the Chicago Dogs, Cleburne, Gary SouthShore RailCats, Kane County, Lake Country DockHounds and Milwaukee Milkmen. The West Division members are the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks, Kansas City, Lincoln Saltdogs, Sioux City, Sioux Falls Canaries and Winnipeg.

“After another year of growth in terms of attendance and revenues across the league, we are looking forward to another tremendous schedule for our fans and clubs in 2025,” said American Association Commissioner Joshua Schaub. “The American Association continues to stand out among MLB Professional Partner Leagues as the place for players and fans to enjoy America’s Pastime in our beautiful facilities. For the second consecutive season, our league lead all MLB Partner Leagues in attendance. We can’t wait to see everyone back at the ballpark in May.”

NFL, College Teams Continue to Expand The Lineup For Third Annual Coach Knapp Stair Climb Campaign

The Coach Knapp Memorial Fund, named in honor of veteran NFL assistant coach Greg Knapp, dedicated to educating drivers on the dangers of distracted driving, reduce the number of distracted driving related deaths, and promote distracted driving awareness reform, today announced its expanded lineup of nearly half of the NFL and over a dozen NCAA teams participating in this fall’s “Coach Knapp Stair Climb.” This coming weekend, two new Universities, The University of Houston (October 12) and Syracuse University (October 14) will be the latest additions to the roster. The next NFL team to take to the stairs will be the L.A. Rams on October 20, prior to their game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

In honor of Coach Knapp, NFL coaches, players, executives and alumni will participate in raising funds and awareness at each NFL stadium prior to team warm ups. Teams confirmed to participate in the stair climb include: Packers, Colts, Titans, Rams, Jets, Browns, Texans, 49ers, Commanders, Falcons. Participating NCAA teams include: Oregon State University, Georgia State University, University of Oregon, University of Houston, Syracuse University, Sacramento State, Boston College, Butler University, East Carolina University, Ripon College, Rice University, University of Utah.

This fall marks the third annual Coach Knapp Stair Climb, with this year’s initiative starting even earlier with participation kicking off with Georgia State University and Oregon State University participating in the preseason this past August. Over 500 coaches, players and staff will be participating in various forms on game days, easily eclipsing the goal of 20+ participating teams.

“I was with Coach Knapp in Denver in 2013, and he was somebody that was really influential for me as a young coach,” said Colts Offensive Coordinator Jim Bob Cooter, who participated in the Knapp Stair Climb last month alongside the coaching staff of the Green Bay Packers. “He actually got me started running the stadium stairs before games, which is a habit that I have held onto. Coach Knapp was such a beloved figure in the coaching community, and I’m blessed to have the opportunity to help honor his legacy.”

At the time of his passing, Knapp was recently named Passing Game Coordinator of the New York Jets under head coach Robert Saleh, after serving as an assistant coach for over a quarter of a century with the Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, Oakland (now Las Vegas) Raiders, Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers. Known as a “quarterback whisperer,” Greg coached some of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history helping chart the careers of many young athletes with kindness, humor and trust.

Additional participants will be announced in the coming weeks.

Fans, athletes, and coaches at any level can also participate wherever is most convenient to them across the country, such as apartment building stairs or a high school sports stadium. Images will be shared on various social channels.

To learn more on how you can get involved, details can be found at https://www.knappmemorial.org/stairclimb

AXIA Time Partners with Heisman Trophy Trust

AXIA Time, creator of ultra-custom Swiss Made timepieces, gets another huge deal over the goal line as the Official Timepiece of the Heisman Trophy. To celebrate this win, AXIA Time has innovated a new design called the DIASIMOS with a version exclusively for the Heisman Trophy finalists and honorees in collaboration with the Heisman Trophy Trust. This unique, heirloom-quality timepiece will be presented as part of the Heisman Trophy Weekend beginning on December 13, 2024.

Adding the Heisman Trophy to the list of awards for which AXIA Time has partnered establishes the brand as the go-to watchmaker for celebrating life’s greatest accomplishments. For the past three years, AXIA Time has served as the Official Timepiece of the Tewaaraton Awards for college lacrosse. Earlier this year AXIA Time was named the Official Timepiece of the Naismith Award for college basketball, and the Official Timepiece of the College Football Playoff (CFP). The partnership with the Heisman Trophy Trust is another big play for AXIA Time, which has created personalized timepieces of exceptional quality at an affordable price to commemorate life’s biggest achievements and unforgettable moments since 2018.

THE HEISMAN DIASIMOS BY AXIA TIME

Evocative of the iconic trophy, the Heisman DIASIMOS by AXIA Time is an eye-catching study in black and bronze powered by renowned Swiss brand Sellita’s SW300 Elaboré, a 31-jewel self-winding, automatic movement which operates at a frequency of 28,800 VpH (4Hz) and has a power reserve of 56 hours. At 40.5 mm, the watch’s striking bronze-plated titanium #5 case with DLC coating features a split coin-edge bezel and a fine-tooth crown adorned with the iconic Heisman logo. The piece’s sapphire crystal caseback displays the SW300 Elaboré movement with its unique custom rotor as well as an engraving ring which provides dedicated space to honor the individual player. To ensure stylish comfort and the ease of use necessary for daily wear, the watch is presented on an American-made, black square-scale alligator strap with contrast stitching which closes via a bronze-plated deployant buckle embellished with the Heisman logo. Reminiscent of the trophy base, the Heisman DIASIMOS by AXIA Time comes in a custom, solid walnut display box.

“We are excited to include AXIA Time among our family of sponsors as the Official Timepiece of the Heisman Trophy,” stated Michael Comerford, President of the Heisman Trophy Trust. “We are grateful to AXIA Time and its founder, John Kanaras, for their focus on honoring all of our finalists and honorees AXIA’s exquisite timepieces and ultra-custom designs offer a special way for our finalists and honorees to commemorate this unforgettable time in their lives.”

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Heisman Trophy Trust to celebrate all of their honorees,” said AXIA Time founder John Kanaras. “As with the Tewaaraton and Naismith Awards, AXIA Time believes that being named a finalist is an incredible achievement that deserves to be celebrated. We hope that our timepieces will quickly become family heirlooms that will be cherished by each athlete.”

With the Heisman DIASIMOS, AXIA Time has created more than just a watch: it’s also a time machine that will instantly transport these elite athletes back to the moment of being named Heisman Trophy finalists, for the rest of their lives. These AXIA timepieces are a symbol of their exceptional sportsmanship and performance that they can cherish for a lifetime.

AXIA timepieces are designed in the U.S. and handcrafted in Switzerland by master watchmakers, using the same components and engineers as luxury Swiss brands, at a much more accessible price point. Although this collection is not for sale to the general public, the new AXIA Time Heisman timepieces are stylish and functional, meant to be worn every day, and passed on from generation to generation. As with all AXIA timepieces, crisp and elegant custom design centers what’s important to the wearer above all else: vividly capturing memories of joy and success on the field in this milestone moment.

FE Enters the Sports Culture Space with Limited-Edition Fashion Line Featuring Hockey Hall of Famers

FE, one of the leading brands focused on sustainability in the apparel business, today formally announced their entrance into the growing space of ‘sports culture,’ with The Legends of the Game Collection, a limited-edition line of collectible reversible bomber jackets that pay tribute to some of the greatest players in hockey history. This exclusive collection, in collaboration with the NHL Alumni Association (NHLAA), the National Hockey League and Getty Images, honors the careers of NHL Legends Mark Messier, Wayne Gretzky, Martin Brodeur and more with a unique blend of style, nostalgia, and craftsmanship. Only 99 pieces of each legend’s jacket have been created, with each style individually numbered from 1 to 99 – making them a rare and coveted addition to any fan’s wardrobe. The jacket is the first style in a growing line that will also include hoodies, each designed to blend the culture and heritage of hockey with contemporary, cutting-edge fashion trends. The jackets are available on the FE Website and at the NHL Shop NYC store in Manhattan.
“The Legends of the Game Collection gives fans the opportunity to honor their hockey heroes in a stylish and sustainable way,” said Bill Chang, CEO at FE. “This collection celebrates remarkable achievements by exceptional players and offers a chance to wear a piece of sports history.”

“Our goal every day at the NHL Alumni Association is to ‘Honour the Past’ by making tomorrow better than today for all NHL Alumni and their families. Through these specially designed jackets, FE is furthering this mission and allowing fans to honour the legacy of iconic hockey heroes,” said Glenn Healy, President and Executive Director of the NHL Alumni Association.

The Legends of the Game Collection is meticulously designed to celebrate the legacy of hockey icons. Each bomber jacket showcases the legendary player’s jersey number, most iconic photos, career stats and team logo. Crafted in the player’s team colors, the jackets capture the essence of these hockey greats with a tribute that’s both striking and meaningful. The jackets are also reversible, providing two distinct looks in one garment. Fans can choose to display their favorite legend’s images on one side or choose a sleek, minimalist design on the reverse.

Craftsmanship is a key focus at FE. After the fabric is printed using state-of-the-art digital printing technology, every panel on each jacket is hand-pinned before cutting for precise placement and every seam is matched perfectly. This dedication to detail ensures a high-quality product that truly honors the legacy of these hockey icons. The jackets are also made from 100% recycled fabric, combining sustainability with performance. The fabric is water-repellent and anti-microbial, offering durability and comfort.

Deborah Hull, wife of the late Chicago Blackhawks legend Bobby Hull, expressed her admiration for the collection: “It is just amazing…Bobby would have loved it! It’s an honor to have this piece of memorabilia for the family to cherish for a long time. I know he would be so proud of the NHL Alumni and what you are achieving. Best of luck on all the Alumni endeavors.”

The initial launch features: Jean Beliveau (Montreal Canadiens), Ray Bourque (Boston Bruins), Martin Brodeur (New Jersey Devils), Paul Coffey (Edmonton Oilers), Marcel Dionne (Los Angeles Kings), Peter Forsberg (Colorado Avalanche), Wayne Gretzky (Edmonton Oilers), Gordie Howe (Detroit Red Wings), Bobby Hull (Chicago Blackhawks), Brett Hull (St. Louis Blues), Nicklas Lidstrom (Detroit Red Wings), Mark Messier (New York Rangers), Stan Mikita (Chicago Blackhawks), Denis Potvin (New York Islanders), Maurice Richard (Montreal Canadiens), Larry Robinson (Montreal Canadiens), Patrick Roy (Colorado Avalanche), Joe Sakic (Colorado Avalanche), Teemu Selanne (Winnipeg Jets) and Steve Yzerman (Detroit Red Wings).

The Legends of the Game Collection is now available for purchase exclusively on the FE website (www.fe-apparel.com) and at the NHL Shop NYC store in Manhattan. With only 99 jackets for each legend available, fans are encouraged to act quickly to secure their piece of hockey history.

GSE Worldwide Acquires Net Results Marketing

GSE Worldwide (“GSE”), a premier sports and entertainment marketing and management company, is pleased to announce it acquired Net Results Marketing (“Net Results”), a leading sports, culinary and entertainment marketing company. Industry veteran and Net Results Founder and President Jeremy Steindecker, along with his team, will join GSE.

The deal comes on the heels of a strategic investment in GSE from BC Partners Credit, which enables the company to execute on its ambitious growth plan to expand and enhance its impressive talent practice and bolster its capabilities in brand services as well as property ownership and representation. The acquisition of Net Results is the initial step in GSE’s aggressive multi-pronged strategy.

Through Net Results, GSE is adding corporate hospitality, property sales and activation, along with event management capabilities. Additionally, the transaction further expands GSE’s footprint in talent representation through the management and marketing of a number of award-winning and nationally renowned chefs, including James Beard award-winning chefs Michael Solomonov, Gregory Gourdet, Valerie Chang and Nok Suntaranon.

Net Results Marketing specializes in creating custom hospitality and event marketing programming for Fortune 100 companies and other corporate partners. Net Results also currently represents some of the most prestigious art fairs in the world for sponsorship sales and activation. The company recently showcased their extensive tennis industry experience to produce special events for the WTA Tour’s 50th anniversary and the Cincinnati Open’s 125th anniversary.

GSE is as a leading sports agency, representing over 275 top athletes across golf, tennis and NFL, including two-time U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau, American tennis stars Tommy Paul and Jessica Pegula, and Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. Its extensive experience with brand consulting and athlete talent marketing combine to create the most unique marketing opportunities available. As GSE continues to grow and look for strategic opportunities, Net Results offers yet another avenue of growth in a market heretofore untapped by GSE.

“GSE Worldwide is thrilled to add Jeremy – one of the most respected veterans in his space – and Net Results’ capabilities to our own, as our combined offering amplifies the scope and breadth of service we can provide to our clients and further diversify into new, but complimentary, lines of business,” said Michael Principe, CEO, GSE Worldwide. “Bringing Jeremy and Net Results into the fold marks an exciting time for us as we pursue our aggressive growth strategy with the continued support of Gatemore Capital Management and BC Partners Credit’s recent investment.

After 35 years of building my company, I am excited about this new chapter of expansion and growth with GSE Worldwide,” said Steindecker. “My commitment to delivering superior creativity, attention to detail, and exceptional customer service will be further strengthened by GSE Worldwide’s reputation and scope, creating elevated opportunities for our valued clients.

U.S. Watchmaker AXIA Time Makes Major Play In Latest Launch With College Football Playoff

AXIA Time, creator of ultra-custom Swiss Made timepieces, has been named the Official Timepiece of the College Football Playoff (CFP). Deepening its long-standing relationship with the CFP to now become an Official Sponsor, AXIA Time will be launching a series of limited edition, ultra-custom watches to honor all 12 teams competing for the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship. The College Football Playoff Collection by AXIA Time is a special series of unique, heirloom-quality timepieces with styles exclusively for the players competing in the College Football Playoff and styles for the fans. The Players’ style features a unique sunray dial with a subtle yet striking etched football pattern that radiates out from the dial’s center. The timepieces for fans will be released in multiple drops throughout the 2024-25 season, offered in the 12 colorways specific to the 12 football programs that make the Playoff.

Since 2018, AXIA Time has scored with consumers by creating personalized timepieces of exceptional quality at an affordable price to commemorate life’s biggest achievements and unforgettable moments – including championship victories. No rookie in the sports world, AXIA Time has cheered on the greatness of student athletes in college football in collaboration with the CFP starting with the 2021 National Championship watch for the Georgia Bulldogs. Every season, AXIA Time works closely with the CFP to create premium custom wristwatches, including the 2023 National Champions Timepiece for the undefeated Michigan Wolverines. Now AXIA Time is once again joining forces with the CFP to create a unique design that will only be available to players competing in the CFP: a timepiece cherished for a lifetime that recognizes their extraordinary talent and drive at the peak of their college football careers.

AXIA timepieces are designed in the U.S. and handcrafted in Switzerland by master watchmakers, using the same components and engineers as luxury Swiss brands, at a much more accessible price point. The new AXIA Time commemorative CFP watches are stylish and functional, meant to be worn every day, and passed on from generation to generation. As with all AXIA timepieces, crisp and elegant custom design centers what’s important to the wearer above all else: vividly capturing memories of joy and success on the field in this milestone moment.

The College Football Playoff (CFP) ARGOS is powered by renowned Swiss brand Sellita’s SW200, a 26-jewel, highly decorated, self-winding automatic movement that operates at a frequency of 28,000 VpH (4 Hz) and boasts a power reserve of 38 hours. It is water resistant to 300 meters (30 ATM) and features gold-plated steel hands and applied indexes filled with X1 Super-Luminova, the highest performing grade of photoluminescent material used in watchmaking today and presented on a solid three-link 316L stainless steel bracelet with micro-adjustable buckle and DLC coating.

“Signing on as the Official Timepiece of College Football Playoff is a tremendous milestone for our company,” said AXIA Time founder John Kanaras. “Since the very start of AXIA Time, we have taken great pride in creating timepieces whose style and quality match the significance of the events they commemorate. Through our expanded partnership with CFP, and for the first time ever, we have created an exquisite, heirloom-quality timepiece that is exclusively available for the student athletes competing for the National Championship. For many, this will be the pinnacle of their athletic careers, and I am thrilled that we are able to produce a timepiece that aligns with their accomplishments and the memories of this special time in their lives.”

“We are thrilled to include AXIA Time among our family of sponsors as the Official Timepiece of the College Football Playoff,” said Ryan Allen Hall, Senior Director of Public Events and Sponsorships at the CFP. “We are grateful for our long-standing relationship with AXIA Time and its founder, John Kanaras. John’s focus on honoring the student-athlete experience aligns perfectly with our mission and we are excited to have them as part of the 2025 College Football Playoff.”

Most AXIA timepieces are available for under $1,000. Team-specific designs will be available to fans at axiatime.com. They will also be on sale at the CFP’s Playoff Fan Central in Atlanta from January 18-20, 2025, leading up to the national championship game.

AXIA Time will be kicking off a series of product drops and events in November that will include opportunities to win tickets to the 2025 national championship game. Sign up at AXIA Time for email updates and follow AXIA Time on social media for alerts.

Scheffler, Moss, Kamara, Headline High Profile Team Owners as Sport Fishing Championship Announces New Competitive Format Set to Debut in ‘25

Sport Fishing Championship (SFC) announced today a star-studded lineup of high-profile team owners in the saltwater fishing league’s 16-team new competitive format that will debut in Spring 2025.

World No. 1 Golfer and Olympic Gold Medalist Scottie Scheffler, coming off one of golf’s most successful seasons in history, headlines a group of team owners betting on the growth of competitive fishing. The Texas native purchased sole ownership of the Texas Lone Stars Angling Club, with an exclusive rights territory that includes Dallas, Austin, San Antonio and the coastal markets of South Padre Island and Corpus Christi.

NFL Legend Randy Moss, New Orleans Saints 5X Pro Bowl RB Alvin Kamara, Charlotte Hornets star PF Grant Williams and Grammy Award winning country star Brian Kelley are amongst a wave of team owners competing in SFC’s new championship format.

“Today is a milestone date for competitive fishing,” said Mark Neifeld, CEO & Commissioner of SFC. “SFC has always been determined to serve as leaders for competitive angling, and through the league’s new championship format and continuous innovation of our product, we are now better equipped to serve our fans across the globe.”

The league announced the formation of 16 teams representing 16 regions across North America, which will compete week-to-week in a “closed” format designed to showcase offshore fishing’s top competitors and create regional fan bases across the continent. The 16 team names announced include:

· Texas Lone Stars Angling Club (Central Texas & South Texas Coast)

· Third Coast Renegades Angling Club (Houston/ Galveston Region)

· Louisiana Canyons Angling Club

· Mississippi Blues Angling Club

· Alabama RAZRS Angling Club

· Gulf Coast Cowboys Angling Club (Florida Panhandle Region)

· West Florida Black Flags Angling Club (Tampa/ Clearwater Region)

· South Florida Sails Angling Club (Fort Lauderdale/ Miami Region)

· North Florida Kings Angling Club (Jacksonville/ Savannah Region)

· Carolina Sabals Angling Club (South Carolina)

· North Carolina Flare Angling Club

· Chesapeake Chessies Angling Club (Virginia/ Maryland/ Delaware Region)

· New Jersey Sea Birds Angling Club

· New York Granders Angling Club

· Lights Out Boston Angling Club (New England Region)

· International Angling Club Commodores

“I love this sport, I love what SFC continues to represent, and I believe the future is very bright for this league,” said Brian Kelley. Kelley, known to many as the “Beach Cowboy,” infused his country music superstardom and love for his home city of Grayton Beach (FL) into the name of his pro team – Gulf Coast Cowboys AC.

Lifeline Sportfishing (Panama City Beach), who currently sits atop the SFC’s 2024 Standings, jumped at the chance to team up with the Kelley in a joint venture. “Unity is powerful and alignment with the right team members is key,” said Dino McDowell, team owner. “Brian’s passion for the sport matches our own, and working with BK gives our team an advantage off the water with introducing the Gulf Coast Cowboys to new fans and corporate partners.”

Alvin Kamara, who also serves as NASCAR’s Growth and Engagement Advisor, developed an interest in competitive fishing after participating in SFC’s Celebrity Tournament, “The Catch powered by Verizon.” His involvement in NASCAR has allowed him to experience the business of numerous high-level sports environments and his passion for outdoor activities naturally expanded into fishing.

“When I got the chance to compete in The Catch tournament, the thrill of the sport and the sense of community it brings was incredible,” said Kamara. “When the opportunity came to dive deeper into it, I knew I couldn’t pass it up.”

Since the league’s first season in 2022, SFC has operated an “open” format, allowing competitors of all skill levels the opportunity to compete in its SFC Billfish Championship. In this new competitive format, SFC will now showcase the same teams week-to-week as they travel on an international tour competing in the top fishing locations and tournaments from April through August annually.

“The top sports leagues in the world have superstars and strong, regional fan bases,” said Neifeld. “Our sport (offshore fishing) is geographically positioned to showcase its historic fishing towns and competitions, and we believe this new championship format allows SFC the opportunity to better serve our fanatical fishing communities.”

Team sales began in June, and SFC has already sold ownership rights to more than half of the teams made available in the initial expansion offering. The league is in advanced negotiations with a number of prospective team owners, with exclusive territory rights in markets like Boston, New York and South Florida in high demand.

SFC’s unique team charter ownership model is a blend of the hand-selected best practices inspired by leagues like LIV Golf, Formula 1 and NASCAR. In this initial offering, the league introduced new team rights through leveraging A.I. and more sophisticated digital technologies.

In July 2023, SFC announced the formation of Sport Fishing Championship Angler’s Association, a non-profit organization designed to increase the league and its corporate partners’ ability to invest in conservation, competition and community events year-round at the local level. Each of the new 16 teams will carry the “Angling Club” moniker, to strengthen community support for the sport while also supporting existing fishing clubs within its geographical region.

SFC’s league office is in early discussions for its upcoming 2025 media rights offering, after its first three seasons were distributed internationally on CBS and CBS Sports Network.

On October 18, SFC will launch SFC+, the league’s first direct-to-consumer OTT streaming platform that will carry SFC’s competitions, original programing, syndicated entertainment shows and podcasts, and will showcase the top fishing content creators in the “SFC+ Community.”

SFC’s 2024 Billfish Championship Season concludes at the Zane Grey Championship Playoffs in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, October 19-21.

360 Hoops to Launch Proprietary Three-in-One Basketball Product This Fall, Transforming Youth Sports

360 Hoops, a sports innovation company with dual patents for its three-in-one basketball hoop and 3v3v3 gameplay format, will make its debut this fall in Texas.

The unique three-in-one basket, combined with a 3v3v3 ‘king of the court’ style gameplay, offers an unparalleled experience that maximizes speed, teamwork, and player involvement. With the bold tagline “Changing the Shape of the Game,” 360 Hoops seeks to revolutionize youth sports by creating a versatile and dynamic experience for all players. Following the Texas launch, 360 Hoops will roll out across several key markets throughout the United States.

“We created 360 Hoops with the goal of helping more kids stay active in a fun environment that encourages them to get off the sidelines and into the game,” said Co-Founder Shane Brey, a veteran youth basketball coach and brother of Mike Brey, the winningest Head Coach in Notre Dame men’s basketball history.

CEO and Co-Founder Anthony Gomez, a seasoned entrepreneur with 30 years of experience in business operations said, “Via the 360 Hoops Experience, we will partner with reputable, best-in-class sports complexes and coaches to deliver 360 Hoops to every elementary, middle and high school student in the country.”

At launch, each partner complex will host a series of open-play tournaments for boys and girls, showcasing 360 Hoops to a range of age groups. As the company scales, 360 Hoops aims to become a household game in physical education classes in every market. Details of markets, complex partnerships, and launch tournaments will be announced as they become available.

Additionally, Anthony Gomez has appointed Patrick Donnelly as Vice President of Strategic Development of 360 Hoops. Donnelly will drive the brand’s growth through marketing, business development, and partnerships.

“With a proven track record in sports and entertainment, Patrick’s vision and creativity will be crucial as we roll out 360 Hoops across the country,” said Gomez. “His background in sports marketing and passion for the brand will be invaluable in our launch and future endeavors.”

360 Hoops is the brainchild of Gomez and Brey inspired by watching their sons play the game they love, they envisioned a fun new addition to a sport that already has a special place in people’s hearts.

What started as a “back of the napkin” idea has evolved into a transformative opportunity in youth athletics, offering more hoops, more participation, and more action with shots going up every 3-5 seconds.

“This concept is a game-changer,” said Mike Brey. “It brings a fresh, exciting approach to basketball that keeps players engaged and constantly moving. Shane’s vision for 360 Hoops is going to inspire the next generation of athletes, and bring a whole new level of energy to the game.”

The 3v3v3 game is played in a 30-foot circle with the 360 Hoop in the center. Players can score on any of the three hoops, promoting constant movement and engagement from ALL players.

Visit play360hoops.com for updates and follow the company on social media @play360hoops.

2024 ACL Pro Teams Championship Airing on CBS Sunday, September 1st

The American Cornhole League (ACL) is excited to announce that the California Slingers and Carolina Coasters, after a season of intense competition with 16 teams across two divisions and four regions, will compete head-to-head to determine the 2024 ACL Pro Teams Championship and the $100,000 grand prize. The California Slingers came out of the National Division in the West Region, while the Carolina Coasters emerged from the American Division in the South Region. The 2024 ACL Pro Teams Championship will be broadcast on Sunday, September 1^st from 1:00-2:00pm EST on CBS, allowing viewers to tune in and catch all of the action.

Since launching in 2016 the ACL has become one of the fastest growing sports in the world. The league’s

tagline “Anyone can play, anyone can win,” along with its ability to be played anywhere, has the league

on a fast track for success. The ACL hosts a variety of pro and amateur events. The ACL’s strong sponsor

support includes Corn Nuts, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Pit Boss Grills and Beard Guyz and

“We’re thrilled for both the California Slingers and Carolina Coasters – they’ve been through a number of ups and downs throughout the season but came out on top and now we get to see who is going to take home the ultimate prize of the Championship and $100,000,” said Stacey Moore, Commissioner and Founder of the American Cornhole League. “We’re also delighted to partner with CBS to bring viewers at home all of the action, so they don’t miss a single toss.”

The American Cornhole League hosts competition and tournaments across the amateur, collegiate, and pro ranks with thousands of players taking part every year. For additional information on how to participate visit iplaycornhole.com.

AKTIV Against Cancer Honors Tennis Legend James Blake and Team Casper Ruud at 2024 Benefit

AKTIV Against Cancer, the organization co-founded by legendary runner Grete Waitz and Helle Aanesen, announced today that veteran tennis star, entrepreneur and philanthropist James Blake will be this year’s honoree at the tenth annual awards dinner, which will take place on August 22 at NeueHouse Madison Square, the Thursday prior to this year’s US Open. The event has generated over $500,000 in donations in the first nine years it has been held. This year’s event will be hosted by award winning broadcaster Andrew Krasny.

“James Blake is not just a world class athlete, he is a world class individual who always puts others before himself, and he embodies all we are doing with AKTIV Against Cancer,” Aanesen added. “We are honored to welcome him and his team as this year’s honoree.”

Blake won 10 titles on the ATP Tour, reaching a career-high singles ranking of world No. 4. His career highlights included reaching the final of the 2006 Tennis Masters Cup, the semifinals of the 2008 Beijing Olympics (beating world No. 1 Roger Federer en route), the quarterfinals of the 2008 Australian Open and 2005 and 2006 US Opens, two titles at the Hopman Cup (in 2003 and 2004) and being the American No. 1 in men’s singles. James was also a key performer for the victorious United States 2007 Davis Cup team, winning both his matches in the championship tie against Russia. In 2008, Blake was named the Arthur Ashe Humanitarian of the Year and retired from professional tennis at the 2013 US Open.

On the philanthropic side, The James Blake Foundation has long been dedicated to raising awareness and funding for cancer research, having donated $1.16M to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) in 2019 in memory of James’ father, Thomas Blake. The James Blake Discovery Fund, under the direction of physician-scientist Ross Levine, MD, at MSK, will support cutting-edge research initiatives aimed at identifying innovative approaches to cancer prevention and early detection. With an initial pledge of $1M from the James Blake Foundation, the fund will provide crucial resources to fuel groundbreaking research in this critical area.

The James Blake Foundation recently announced a groundbreaking $1M donation to MSK aimed at advancing cancer research and prevention. Through the establishment of the James Blake Discovery Fund in Prevention and Early Interception, the two organizations are uniting their efforts to combat cancer and improve patient outcomes. Through this partnership, the James Blake Foundation and MSK are poised to drive meaningful progress in cancer prevention and interception research, bringing hope to patients and families affected by this devastating disease.

AKTIV AGAINST CANCER TO PRESENT GABE GRUNEWALD INSPIRATION AWARD TO TEAM RUUD

AKTIV is thrilled to present the Gabe Grunewald Inspiration Award to Norwegian professional tennis player Casper Ruud and Team Ruud. Ruud is the first Norwegian to break into the top 10 of the ATP rankings, reaching both the French Open and US Open final in 2022. “We are proud to honor Casper and Team Ruud for their commitment to excellence and for their continuous efforts to support and promote our cause.” Helle expressed.

The Gabriele Grunewald Inspiration Award was established in 2017, when AKTIV Against Cancer paid homage to the indomitable spirit of Gabriele Grunewald. A professional runner who continued her journey despite battling cancer. Her courage has inspired many to embrace physical exercise throughout their own cancer journeys. To commemorate her legacy, AKTIV established the Gabe Grunewald Inspiration Award, recognizing her unwavering mindset and advocacy in exercise oncology.

“We are deeply honored to receive this award. This recognition fuels the commitment to pushing boundaries and serving as a positive role model for others,” said Team Ruud.

For more information about AKTIV Against Cancer please visit www.aktivagainstcancer.org

$2 Million Ruth ‘Called Shot’ Jersey Heads New Auction

There have been historic Sports auctions, legendary Sports auctions, landmark Sports auctions. But there has never been anything like Heritage’s August 23-25 Summer Platinum Night Sports Auction, which could become the biggest Sports auction ever.

There have already been countless headlines about its centerpiece: the New York Yankees jersey Babe Ruth wore when he called his shot (or not?) against the Chicago Cubs in Game 3 of the 1932 World Series. The jersey, photo-matched more than any ever worn during a mythic moment, is even scheduled to return to Wrigley Field on July 23. The jersey’s $30 million estimate garners as many knowing nods as wide eyes. As Heritage’s Director of Sports, Chris Ivy, said this spring, when the jersey’s auction was first announced, “Ruth’s World Series jersey is the most significant piece of American sports memorabilia to be offered at auction in decades.”

Collectors wholeheartedly agree: Bids crossed the $10 million mark just hours after the auction opened for bidding Saturday.

But this auction’s highlights are seemingly endless, spanning jerseys worn by titans, bats swung by legends, balls smashed (and signed) by folk heroes, even the bases trodden by baseball’s home-run record-setter and an authenticated Yankees cap The Babe wore during the early 1930s. Every piece tells a story behind a statistic, conjures a memory of a milestone moment and shares its place in history with the heroes of diamonds, hardwood and gridiron.

Where even to begin? Perhaps with the virtual visit to Monument Park and the Murderers’ Row of jerseys worn by legendary Yankees — Gehrig, Mantle and DiMaggio joining Ruth — during history-making moments.

Gehrig shares this auction’s spotlight with Ruth, with whom he played more than 1,300 regular-season games. Heritage is honored to present a road Yankees jersey photo-matched to the 1938 season, which was toward the end of Gehrig’s 2,130 consecutive games-played streak.

During the back half of that year, The Iron Horse was noticeably and admittedly weakened by his yet-undiagnosed ALS. “I don’t know why,” he said toward the season’s end, “but I just couldn’t get going again.” Wrote biographer Jonathan Eig, “Though he played the entire 1938 season and helped the Yankees win the World Series, he knew something was wrong.” About a month into the 1939 season, Gehrig benched himself, never to return to the field until his immortal farewell at Yankee Stadium on July 4, 1939.

This jersey has been matched to three photos from The Iron Horse’s final full season.

Harlem Globetrotters Open First-Ever Pop Up Retail Location As Part of American Dream Residency

The Harlem Globetrotters today announced the launch of their first-ever brick and mortar retail location, a pop up store at American Dream in East Rutherford, New Jersey to coincide with the organizations historic residency in the state-of-the art entertainment center. The store will officially open on Friday August 9, and will be open through the Globetrotters residency, which begin Friday August 16 and goes through August 25.

The store will showcase historic memorabilia and pictures featuring moments over the decades whilst offering fans the opportunity to purchase uniform replica collections and basketballs from both our past through to our present, a range of apparel items for kids & adults, accessories synonymous with the iconic brand as well as some special, limited edition items including autographed basketballs and other items. It will be located on the first floor adjacent to the court, which is being installed by American Dream’s hockey rink. In addition to the memorabilia and traditional items, the store will also showcase a limited edition tee shirt designed by their own Maxwell ‘Hops’ Pearce, a Globies veteran, world record holder and native of Tuckahoe, NY and SUNY-Purchase College.

“This retail location is another key move to expand the reach of the Globetrotters brand as we head towards our centennial in 2026,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters and Herschend Entertainment Studios. “The first-ever residency of a sports organization continues to open new doors for us to engage with fans and widen the footprint of every aspect of our business, be it clinics and games, the first live broadcast in over 35 years (August 18 on Gray Television), or retail partnerships. We are setting a new standard for our business that will bring global opportunities well into the future.”

The Globetrotters will be playing daily during the residency as well as hosting clinics and other special events. One of the highlights of the stay will be the first broadcast in over 35 years, produced by Gray TV’s Raycom Sports, a national leader in sports production and syndication with deep roots in college basketball, football, and pro sports. That game will be broadcast live on Sunday night August 18 at 7:00 PM.

This Year’s White Sox Fall to ‘62 Mets In Strat-O-Matic ‘Worst Team Ever’ Simulation

A current 21-game losing streak has put this year’s Chicago White Sox (27-88, .235 winning percentage through Monday) on a pace for an even poorer record than the famed 1962 New York Mets, who at 40-120 (.250) are acknowledged by many as the worst team in modern Major League Baseball history. So how would the 2024 ChiSox fare against Marvelous Marv Throneberry, Felix Mantilla and the rest of Casey Stengel’s expansion Amazins?

Strat-O-Matic (@strat-o-matic), the market leader in sports simulation games, decided to put that to the test today, simulating a seven-game series between the two lowly squads. And the battle came down to Game 7, where Jay Hook pitched a complete game and Sammy Taylor hit a grand slam in the fourth inning for a 7-5 Mets win.

The 2024 White Sox, further depleted by trade deadline deals that sent away Michael Kopech, Tommy Pham, Eloy Jimenez, Tanner Banks and Paul DeJong, all starters or key “contributors,” are on a pace to finish 38-124 based on their record to date. But Strat-O-Matic also decided to simulate the rest of this season with their current roster, and has the final record tabbed at 41-121.

In the ‘62 Mets series simulation, Chicago pitching, which has recorded an A.L.-worst 4.88 ERA, allowing the most walks (451), second most home runs (147) and fourth most hits (977) in actual MLB play to date, permitted 60 runs in the seven games for a 7.28 ERA that included 13 home runs and 41 walks. The ChiSox’s top hitter against New York was Luis Robert Jr., who hit .448 with two home runs and four RBI. Andrew Benintendi checked in at .316 with a home run and six RBI in the series.

Chicago won the first two games of the series and led, three games to two, but lost, 18-3 and 7-5 in the last two contests in New York.

Game 1

Chicago……. 2 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 – 7 14 2

New York…… 0 1 0 4 0 0 0 1 0 0 – 6 9 1

WP: Ellard; LP: Daviault; SV: Kuhl

HR: Robert Jr., Vaughn, Thomas

Game 2

Chicago……. 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 5 0 – 8 11 1

New York…… 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 – 6 8 0

WP: Anderson; LP: Jackson; SV: Kuhl

HR: Vargas, Mantilla, Thomas 2, Hickman

Game 3

New York…… 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 – 6 11 2

Chicago……. 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 0 0 – 5 8 0

WP: Mackenzie; LP: Brebbia

HR: Fletcher

Game 4

New York…… 1 0 0 0 3 1 2 0 0 – 7 9 3

Chicago……. 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 – 3 7 2

WP: Miller; LP: Martin

HR: Mantilla

Game 5

New York…… 0 7 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 – 10 12 0

Chicago……. 2 0 0 6 0 0 3 4 – 15 14 2

WP: Shuster; LP: Mackenzie

HR: Hodges, Robert Jr., Sosa