Weekly Newsletter 12/28
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INNOVATION IN ACTION
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF SPORT
One of the premier sports brands in the industry made a big step to invest in the future. Nike announced its first name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal with University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) sophomore soccer sensation Reilyn Turner. Turner, the first collegiate athlete to receive a NIL sponsorship from Nike, was named Pac-12 Freshman of the Year for 2020-21. Nike chose the 19-year-old as their first athlete because apart from being a standout on the field, she also demonstrates a desire to give back by supporting nonprofit organizations that create opportunities for youth soccer players and other female athletes. We know that Fluid Fans cheer with their values, and Nike is empowering a young leader whose values align with the values of the brand. There has been major momentum for the game of women’s soccer, and Nike’s deal with Turner further validates the business case for women’s sports.
Sports Innovation Lab Events
2021: A TURNING POINT IN SPORTS
Our CEO and Co-Founder, Angela Ruggiero, is peeling the pages back on a tumultuous year in the sports industry. Leagues returned from "bubbles", fans returned to the stands in full force, and disruptors like NFTs and crypto made a big splash. Check out part one of a new mini-series Angela will be featured in with Forbes, and see how the industry worked to rebound in 2021 and be better than ever in 2022.
The Fan Project Spotlight
TRADING UP IN THE CARD GAME
Upper Deck and the Premier Hockey Federation announced a multi-year agreement that will lead to the production of the first-ever professional women’s hockey trading cards. The exclusive license, which will begin in the 2022-23 season, will include both physical and digital trading cards. This is a huge step for the evolving league and its athletes. Fluid Fans want to be able to collect and own a piece of their favorite athletes and these physical and digital trading cards offer the PHF fans an opportunity they have never had before. If you want to be a part of our continued push to empower and build investment into the women's sports market while making your company better, then visit our website or thefanproject.co to find out how you can work with us.