Maloof Skateboarding have announced a three-year extension to bring the Maloof Money Cup World Skateboarding Championships back to Kimberley, South Africa.

The deal with the Northern Cape Provincial Government comes on the heels of a very successful 2011 event that drew thousands of skateboarding enthusiasts from around the world to Kimberley and the world-class skate park built specially for the contest. The new skate park, Maloof Cup Plaza, continues to provide economic benefits and promote the township as the new skateboarding destination for the entire region. The multi-year agreement brings Maloof Money Cup contests back to Kimberley each year until 2015.

 

“The Northern Cape government has been unbelievable with their support and passion for skateboarding. We are honored to have them as a partner through 2015,” said Joe Maloof, founder of Maloof Skateboarding. “This is an exciting day for the Maloof family. The future of skateboarding is global and since the South Africa contest, we’ve been overwhelmed at the acceptance of our brand on the international level. We’re focused on expanding Maloof Money Cup worldwide. We’re in negotiations with several countries, including Brazil and Mexico and are working diligently to bring contests to those communities. Skateboarding is growing so fast around the world. It’s exciting for us to bring international visibility to skateboarding and the brands that have supported our event.”

 

The custom skate park built for the first-ever Maloof Money Cup World Championships in South Africa, held last September, continues to be a magnet for skateboarders across the country. The skate park design pays tribute to Kimberley’s heritage, incorporating the famous Kimberley diamond into the design, as well as large areas of green space. The skate park is situated near “The Big Hole,” a former diamond mine that was once the world’s largest and considered the largest hand-dug excavation on earth when it was finally closed in 1914.

 

Local Kimberley skater Warrick Delport said, “As a skateboarder from Kimberley, South Africa, I believe that I speak on behalf of our country, when I say that the Maloof Money Cup World Championship Skateboarding competition has dawned a new light on our land. The way that skateboarding has been viewed and the way that skateboarders view the sport has now been permanently altered to encourage skateboarding in communities, as a form of discipline, sport and an alternative to negative aspects, such as drugs, crime and violence. The magnitude of the Maloof Money Cup has raised the bar for skill level, commitment and growth in skateboarding in South Africa. The Maloof Skate Plaza in Kimberley is now known as the “battleground” for all skateboarders to improve or showcase their skill and experience as well as a skateboarding destination for any skateboarder/enthusiast in South Africa. The Maloof family, along with all the helping hands, have managed to change the influence and standard of skateboarding in South Africa, by giving the people something to enjoy, love and cherish.”

 

In addition to the new skate park, the largest Maloof Cup park to date, the contest halfpipe was also left as a permanent structure. The championship-style halfpipe is the only one on the African continent. With a commitment to leaving a lasting legacy in each community that host its contests, the Maloof Money Cup World Championships were preceded by nine-months of skate demos, clinics and pro tours. More than 10,000 pairs of shoes and 5,000 skateboards were distributed to underprivileged and at-risk youth at events across the country that encouraged skateboarding as a healthy, positive activity.

 

“By highlighting skateboarding on a global basis, we showed South Africa and the world what a positive impact skateboarding can have among today’s youth,” said Gavin Maloof. “The Maloof Cup Plaza in Kimberley is an amazing thing to see. It’s become a worldwide tourist attraction and skate destination. Since 2008, our family has contributed more funds towards building skate parks, and leaving them to the communities that desperately need them, than any other entity and we look forward to continuing to do so in the future. The Maloof Cup is not just a three-day, world-class skateboarding contest, it’s a series of year-round events, and it’s a real investment in these communities. I was told that the media attention we brought to Kimberley was the highest in their history, and they had the World Cup in 2010. That’s a tribute to how powerful skateboarding is and the positive message it spreads within communities. It’s amazing what can happen when cities and governments get together with common interests. We’re excited for what the future holds.”

NFL’s Minnesota Vikings are looking into another site to build a new stadium.

The new plan would put the stadium just east of where the Metrodome now stands on what is currently a parking lot.

Earlier plans to build on the Metrodome site would require the Vikings to move elsewhere for as long as three years, likely to TCF Bank Stadium on the University of Minnesota campus.

Ted Mondale, chairman of the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission, said the plan, which is still being shaped could see a new stadium as much as three-fourths done before the Metrodome would have to be demolished. Mondale said in that scenario the Vikings could stay in the Metrodome through 2015, with a new stadium complete by 2016.

Lester Bagley, the Vikings’ vice president for stadium development and public affairs, said the goal is to cut down on the time the team plays at TCF Bank Stadium. Playing at the university stadium would also require about $50 million to make the facility NFL-ready.

“It’s the dome site proposal but shifting it,” Bagley said. “The idea is to eliminate the three seasons we’re playing at the university.”

Bagley said the Vikings, city and state officials are looking to prepare a funding package for this newest proposal in the next week to 10 days. Bagley said the team isn’t convinced the new plan is affordable.

The Vikings have said their preferred site is the St. Paul suburb of Arden Hills, but the site’s been ruled out by Gov. Mark Dayton without any clear source of local government revenue. Another site near a historic church on the western edge of downtown Minneapolis has also been rejected.

Stadium bill sponsor Rep. Morrie Lanning, R-Moorhead, said a new proposal would have to be ready in the next couple of weeks for lawmakers to consider it this session.

The ISL files naming high-ranking FIFA officials who allegedly took bribes could be released at the end of January according to FIFA President Sepp Blatter.

Late last year FIFA was ordered by a Swiss court to release documents that could pave the way to finally naming those who are claimed to have taken millions of dollars in kickbacks from World Cup broadcast deals.

Football’s world governing body had previously said that it had been forced to delay publication of the eagerly awaited documentation relating to the collapse of its former marketing partner in 2001, with debts of $300 million (£188 million), because of legal objections.

Blatter himself has been accused of deliberately dragging his feet for fear of incriminating colleagues named in the dossier, understood to include Ricardo Teixeira, President of the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) and controversial head of Brazil 2014; former FIFA President João Havelange; Nicolás Leoz, boss of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL); and Confederation of African Football (CAF) chief Issa Hayatou.

But Blatter insists he is as frustrated as anyone that FIFA has still not been able to release the infamous files.

“I’ve been trying to release this exasperating ISL dossier for a long time,” he said.

“I’d be ready to do that today if only the court would allow it. If there are no new legal objections, it could happen at the end of January.”

Blatter admitted he knows much of what the files contain.

“I’m roughly aware of the contents, but I don’t know any of the legal details,” he said.

“But this is a fact: I’ve not received any payments of any sort, as confirmed by the court back in 2010.”

With FIFA continually under the spotlight for all the wrong reasons, Blatter said it was time to accentuate the positive, a tough ask given the constant drip-drip of corruption allegations emanating from Zurich.

“Unfortunately, in these turbulent times, it’s often the case that people forget the positive things about FIFA,” Blatter said.

“The game can build bridges, and bring people together, especially in countries affected by war. Football has been played continuously during the five-year occupation of Iraq. Football is played in Afghanistan and in Pakistan of course.

“They’re building up a women’s league in Palestine. Even during the revolution in Libya, the national team qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations.”

But he admitted there were still huge problems – not least when it comes to match fixing.

“Football has become a huge commercial machine,” Blatter said.

“And where there’s money involved, you’ll also find gamblers. Bringing these gamblers, these rogue players, under control isn’t easy.For that, we need honest, exemplary players who act as role models.

“That’s why, during the [recent] gala in Zurich, we called Italian player Simone Farina to the stage and honoured him for his courage in attempting to prevent a match fixing incident, and to uncover the mastermind behind it.

“The Gubbio defender had the courage to refuse €200,000 ($260,400) to throw a second division match, and to report the incident.

“If we had more Farinas, FIFA wouldn’t have to liaise with Interpol.”

Blatter insisted once again that FIFA’s four reform Task Forces, together with the new Governance Committee chaired by Swiss anti-corruption expert Professor Mark Pieth, would act independently.

A number of reforms, he says, will be tabled for initial agreement by the FIFA Congress in Budapest in May, to be completed a year later.

English-based sports equipment company Hi-Tec Sports has signed the world number one men’s squash player, Nick Matthew, to a long-term endorsement deal.

The 30-year-old will wear Hi-Tec’s latest product, the Hi-Tec S702, in all competitions and serve as a global endorsee for the Essex-based company’s range of performance squash footwear.

Matthew and Hi-Tec will also work together to develop a signature shoe.

Matthew said: “I have used Hi-Tec squash shoes since 1999 when i first turned professional and I am thrilled to be joining the world’s number one squash footwear brand. Hi-Tec is recognised for producing great squash shoes and the new Hi-Tec S702 is no exception and I’m looking forward to even more success with Hi-Tec over the next three years and hopefully beyond.”

Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Simon Bonham, Hi-Tec global marketing director, said: “Hi-Tec is extremely proud to add yet another world champion and world number one to our stable of players which already includes the incredible talented Amr Shabana.

“Our rich history in the sport of squash is matched by our relentless desire and unrivalled passion to ensure we make the very best shoes for all players whether it be Nick or the squash mad amateur. We look forward to having a very close working relationship with Nick is his role as Hi-Tec’s global ambassador, player and product developer.”

The International Rugby Board (IRB) has confirmed that all but one of the Pacific Nations Cup 2011 matches will be moved from Japan to Fiji following the devastating earthquake and Tsunami that hit the north-east coast of the nation last month.

The decision was taken jointly with the Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) and follows a detailed review of the logistical, cough administrative and operational requirements for hosting four international teams and six Test matches. The relocation will now enable the JRFU to fully focus on its core business and Rugby World Cup 2011 preparations as Japan starts the extensive rebuilding process.

The opening match between Japan and Samoa on July 2 will remain in Tokyo with the five remaining matches relocated to Lautoka and Suva for the tournament, free order which runs until July 13.

IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “This has been a hard decision for everyone involved, given that the Japan Rugby Football Union has shown great enthusiasm for hosting the IRB Pacific Nations Cup this year, but all stakeholders agreed that it is in the best interests of the Union, the nation and the tournament.

“The thoughts of the global Rugby family continue to be with the people of Japan and everyone affected by the earthquake and Tsunami as they focus on the rebuilding process across the country. We will continue to give the Japan Rugby Football Union our support and assistance.”

IRB Regional General Manager for Oceania and Tournament Director William Glenwright added: “An international event of this magnitude, which was broadcast in over 150 countries in 2010, requires a considerable amount of detailed logistical and operational planning and preparation.

“The Japan Rugby Football Union, like everyone in Japan, has been acutely affected by the earthquake and Tsunami and their focus, quite rightly, is on continuing to give the Japanese Rugby community the best support they can as well as preparing for their participation at Rugby World Cup 2011 in less than five months time.”

“The Japan Rugby Football Union has been incredibly supportive throughout this difficult process and the IRB is committed to ensuring that they remain central to a tournament that they have worked so hard on hosting. It is therefore fitting that Samoa, who experienced the devastating impact of a Tsunami in 2009, will play their match against Japan in Tokyo as scheduled in a show of solidarity and support.”

While disappointed that the event has moved, the Japan Rugby Football Union recognised that the decision to relocate was the appropriate action to take and are committed to continuing to play their part to ensure that the tournament is a success, with Chairman Tatsuzo Yabe saying: “The relocation of matches was a difficult decision to take for the Japan Rugby Football Union and the IRB. It was a great disappointment, given our commitment to delivering an outstanding tournament, but it was the logical decision.

“However, we are pleased that we will be playing Samoa in Tokyo as scheduled and will use the match as a sign of support for the Japan Rugby community, while showing our ability to deliver a superb Test match.”

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Fiji Rugby Union for stepping up to host at short notice and we give our full support and blessing to the Union.”

Lotus F1 have announced the appointment of Federico Gastaldi as the new Deputy Team Principal.

Promoted from within the team, denture | Gastaldi has worked for Lotus F1 Team since 2010 as Director of Business Development as the most recent role in a long relationship with Enstone.

The Argentinian starts his new position immediately at this weekend’s opening Grand Prix of the 2014 F1 season in Melbourne.

Gerard Lopez, pills Co-Chairman & Team Principal: “We are pleased to announce our new Deputy Team Principal.

“His Enstone history dates back to the Benetton days. He also works with Genii on a number of projects in South America. For Lotus F1 Team, Federico was instrumental in nurturing our relationship with PDVSA and he continues to be a vital link for us with Venezuela.

“In the paddock, Federico’s contact base is exceptional. As a figurehead, no-one better embodies the Lotus F1 Team spirit. His understanding of the sport as a whole is impressive. Federico will work closely with myself and the rest of the Genii and Enstone family and we’re confident of a very positive future for all.”

Gastaldi added: “It’s a great honour and I’m looking forward to it. I have a long history with Enstone with my previous role of Director of Business Development and then before that in the Benetton days. The team is an exceptional place to be and the depth of talent is amazing. My approach will be to ensure we get the most out of every aspect of Enstone and harness every talent housed there.”

The International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation have announced that they will stage the 10th World Junior Games at Stoke Mandeville Sports Stadium in the UK between the 3rd to the 8th August 2014.

It is anticipated that 500 athletes from 50 countries will compete in Athletics, buy Table Tennis, ailment Powerlifting and Archery.

The Age group is under 23 and the Games will provide valuable competition for all up and coming youngsters and 2016 Rio Paralympic prospects and will take place just before the IPC European Athletic Championships that will be staged in Swansea, UK.

“IWAS is pleased that we can return to Stoke Mandeville in 2014 where the 10th IWAS World Junior Games will revive the ‘Spirit’ of the International Stoke Mandeville Games.” was the statement from IWAS Games Committee Chairperson, Dina Sotiriadi.

The success of the Stoke Mandeville bid means that some of the World’s best young athletes will have the opportunity to compete at an elite level of sport at the home of the Paralympic movement and will take place nine years after the first ever World Junior Games held at Stoke Mandeville.

A number of current London 2012 Paralympians will be expected to compete and past youngsters including Marcel Hug (SUI), Nathan Stephens (GBR) and Madison De Rozario (AUS) first major competition was at previous World Junior Games.

It will also provide the British public with an opportunity once again to show their support to some of the World best Paralympic athletes. In his response the IWAS President Paul DePace said “IWAS is fortunate to be able to build on the legacy of London 2012 by the renewed interest and especially so in Buckinghamshire – the birthplace of the Paralympic Movement.”

This year in Puerto Rico the 9th World Junior Games will take place between 6th to 15th August and sports will include Athletics, Swimming, Archery and Paratriathlon (which will be a new sport at the 2016 Paralympics in Rio).

The first junior games were held here at Stoke in July 2005.

Sport Ngin announced today that it has been selected by USA Hockey to develop and manage all USA Hockey online properties and that it will also become the “Preferred Technology Provider of USA Hockey”.

Sport Ngin is currently in the process of a complete redesign of USAHockey.com, sickness which is anticipated to be completed in full by the end of August. In addition to design, allergy maintenance and on-going technology development and enhancement, pills Sport Ngin will also handle all customer service related to the website for USA Hockey.

“Sport Ngin provides us an opportunity to seamlessly connect our online and mobile properties,” said Dave Ogrean, executive director of at USA Hockey. “In the end, the Sport Ngin platform will provide greater capability for those throughout our organization and also help to better serve our fans and marketing partners.”

“We’re extremely pleased that USA Hockey has entrusted us as its preferred technology provider” said Justin Kaufenberg, co-founder and chief executive officer of Sport Ngin. “We’re confident that our platform will help USA Hockey in its efforts to deliver the best possible service to its members, and will help attract more players and fans to the sport.”

A world-class technology innovator, Minneapolis-based Sport Ngin specializes in the execution of digital sports content strategy, design, and marketing. With more than 200,000 sports organizations, teams, leagues, clubs, associations, and tournaments currently using its proprietary software platform, also known as Sport Ngin, the company is one of the largest privately held sports technology companies in North America. Sport Ngin is used by hockey teams, leagues, clubs, associations and tournamentsacross the United States and Canada.

“We’re excited about this partnership with Sport Ngin for many reasons,” said Mike Bertsch, assistant executive director of marketing, communications and events for USA Hockey. “Not only do they provide a robust platform with cutting-edge technology, but they’re also committed to assisting us in generating new revenue to support initiatives throughout our organization.”

Corporate sponsorship and marketing consulting group Boss Global Media (BGM) has signed an agreement with Blue Giraffe Sports (BGS) to develop sponsorship and endorsement opportunities for the management agency’s stable of high-profile professional golfers and athletes.

“We are excited to work with Blue Giraffe to offer our expertise and resources for the benefit of their clientele,” says BGM VP Hayden Trepeck. “We share Blue Giraffe’s commitment to their clients and individual brands.”

Founded in 2004 by CEO Bobby Kreusler and Executive VP Matt Judy, Blue Giraffe Sports has become one of the Top Agencies in Golf with over 30 clients. BGS currently represents many prominent professional golfers throughout the world, including a dozen from the PGA TOUR.

Blue Giraffe’s list of top golf pros includes such prestigious names as 2011 Bob Hope Classic winner Jhonattan Vegas, 9-time PGA TOUR winner Stuart Appleby and 17 year old, Lexi Thompson, who is the youngest ever to win on the LPGA Tour. “Blue Giraffe looks forward to working with BGM to strengthen our growing company, while capitalizing on opportunities BGS and Boss Global Media can create together for our clients,” said BGS CEO Bobby Kreusler.

A Worldwide Leader in Athletic and Entertainment Sponsorship

BGM works to partner athletes and entertainers with corporate sponsors. BGM is committed to serving its athletes, corporations, organizations and businesses through sponsorship, media, and entertainment marketing services with the goal of increasing the bottom line for all of its clients.