Sep, 27
2023
Alliances and Partnerships, Business, Free News Articles, Software, Sports and Activities

The New Jersey Youth Soccer Association Renews Partnership With Sports Connect To Drive the Youth Soccer Experience Forward

FREEHOLD, N.J. -- The New Jersey Youth Soccer Association (NJYSA), the Governing Body for the sport of soccer in New Jersey has announced a partnership renewal with Sports Connect, powered by Stack Sports. Sports Connect's partnership with NJYSA furthers the governing body's mission of providing quality opportunities for its members. The technology solutions offered through this partnership assist athletes, coaches, families, and volunteers.

"We are very excited to extend our relationship with Stack Sports. This partnership helps provide our members access to innovative technology with features that keep their seasons running smoothly year after year," said Evan Dabby, Executive Director of NJYSA. "With the Sports Connect platform serving as our official registration partner, we believe we are best positioned to serve our membership and grow the sport of soccer across the state."

As an official technology partner of New Jersey Youth Soccer, Sports Connect will serve as a participation growth platform for member clubs and leagues.

"We are proud to partner with New Jersey Youth Soccer, to help continue growing soccer participation in the great state of New Jersey," said Adam Abney, General Manager of Sports Connect. "NJYSA helps inspire its members to achieve their full athletic potential, and Sports Connect is beyond honored to help be an integral partner in this mission."

Affiliated clubs and leagues partnering with Sports Connect will have access to a full suite of features, including industry-leading retention insights tools, mobile-first registration, safety and compliance tracking, professional website designs, secure online payment processing, and much more.

The New Jersey Youth Soccer Association has long-term goals to continue to expand and serve its membership over the next few years and believes that Sports Connect is the conduit to help prime this advancement.

When your club or league is ready to take advantage of the benefits of this new exclusive partnership, contact the Sports Connect team at https://sportsconnect.com/njys/.

About New Jersey Youth Soccer Association:

The mission of NJYSA is to serve the youth soccer community by providing their members with programs, tools, education, training, and governance; promoting a positive, inclusive culture and safe environment; and encouraging the development of youth soccer players of all ages and skill levels. New Jersey has a long history of excellence far beyond its own boundaries. New Jersey ODP and club players can often move on to outstanding soccer careers at the collegiate, professional, and international levels.

About Stack Sports:

With nearly 50 million users in 35 countries, Stack Sports is a global technology leader in SaaS platform offerings for the sports industry. The company provides world-class software and services to support national governing bodies, youth sports associations, leagues, clubs, parents, coaches, and athletes. Some of the largest and most prominent sports organizations including the U.S. Soccer Federation, Little League Baseball and Softball, and Pop Warner Little Scholars rely on Stack Sports technology to run and manage their organizations. Stack Sports is headquartered in Dallas and is leading the industry one team at a time focusing on four key pillars - Grassroots Engagement, Participation Growth, Recruiting Pathways, and Elite Player Development.

To learn more about how Stack Sports is transforming the sports experience, please visit https://stacksports.com/.

Related link: https://stacksports.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Sep, 18
2023
Entertainment, Free News Articles, Sports and Activities

World Open Water Swimming Association’s Final Review: Nyad’s 2013 Cuba to Florida Swim Ratification Denied

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. -- The World Open Water Swimming Association's (WOWSA) Advisory Board reached a decision regarding Diana Nyad's submission for ratification for the Cuba to Florida swim in 2013.

Our decision is rooted in the following considerations:

Integrity in Sport: At the heart of any sport lies its integrity. The rules and regulations established by ratifying bodies, no matter how large or small, are designed to ensure a level playing field for all participants. When these rules are ill-defined or ignored, intentionally or otherwise, it disrespects the achievements that are made under strict adherence to the rules.

Precedent: This decision sets a standard for upcoming athletes and ratifying bodies. By not addressing the provision of ambiguous documents and the creation of an association lacking indicators of authenticity, we may inadvertently suggest that outcomes matter more than the means to achieve them. Such a stance could unintentionally prompt future athletes to stray from established norms, thinking their achievements might eclipse any irregularities.

Documentation and Procedural Failure: During our evaluation, we came across rules from an association whose existence at the time of the swim, or at any point, could not be verified. We found a document with rules that seemed to have been retroactively dated, and there were inconsistent statements from crew members. Observers who play a vital role in recording swim details and ensuring rule compliance, often holding more significance than GPS data, had missing entries for a span of over 9 hours.

In light of these factors, we've chosen to preserve the sport's integrity by denying the ratification of the swim. We've issued a supplementary report that delves deeper into the matter and highlights various inconsistencies and findings, all of which have been publicly shared to ensure transparency.

Moving forward, to ensure the integrity of our sport and prevent such incidents in the future, we commit to the following actions:

* Ensure rules are declared prior to any swim attempt.

* Require strict adherence to established rules and standards in the course of any open water swim attempt.

* Require documentation of adherence to established rules and standards in the course of any open water swim attempt.

* Mandate strict pre-swim planning procedures for all record attempts.

* Collaborate with the community to define clear criteria for legitimate associations in our sport.

* Enhance support for those who share concerns or observations.

* Offer training and ethical guidelines for officials, observers, and participants.

The following members of the WOWSA Advisory Board have reviewed the matter:

:: RULES & REGULATIONS COMMITTEE

Quinn Fitzgerald (WOWSA CEO)

Julie Ridge (English Channel, First person to swim two laps around Manhattan)

Phyllis Quinn (Chair, Pacific Masters Swimming, USMS Long Distance Committee)

Anita Sood-Mankar (Elite Marathon Swimmer)

Cameron Bellamy (Oceans Seven)

Christopher Rushman (Coach, ASCA Life Member)

Dan Simonelli (Marathon Swimmer & Coach)

Edith van Dijk (Olympian, World Champion, IMSHOF Honor Swimmer)

Fergal Somerville (Original Triple Crown, Ice Swimmer)

Ger Kennedy (Ice Miler)

Hanna Bakuniak (Iron IceWoman)

Mark Hamilton (North Channel Swimming Association Founding Member)

Pat Gallant-Charette (IMSHOF Honor Swimmer)

Paul Georgescu (Marathon Swimmer, Ice Swimming World Champion)

Rohan More (Oceans Seven)

Sarah Wiseman (Coach, Ice Swimming Official)

Kate Steels (Ice Swimming Hall of Fame, Triple Crown)

:: SAFETY & RISK MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Jorge Pereira (Race Director, Swim Challenge Cascais)

Kathleen Wilson (Triple Crown, Founder Swim Around Charleston)

Jonty Warneken (Guinness World Record Holder)

Attila Mányoki (Oceans Seven, IMSHOF Honor Swimmer)

José Eduardo Ferreira (Guinness World Record Holder)

:: COACHING & EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Jacques Tuset (IMSHOF Honor Swimmer)

Shannon Keegan (Open Water Swimmer, Coach, Podcaster)

Jose Luis Larrosa (Ultramarathon Swimmer - Oceanman)

Bill McCracken (Race Director Del Valle Open Water Festival)

Mads Claussen (Elite Swim Coach & Mentor)

Glen Christiansen (Olympian)

Mohamed Marouf (IMSHOF Honor Swimmer)

Guila Muir (Coach, open water swimmer)

:: COMMUNICATIONS & OUTREACH COMMITTEE

David Rich (Marathon Swimmer with Olympic Club, Dolphin Club, Serpentine Swim Club)

Jaime Lomelin (IMSHOF Honor Swimmer)

Erika Gliebe (Round Trip Angel Island record, 2021 South End Rowing Club Swimmer of the Year)

Elaine Burrows Dillane (Original Triple Crown)

Aby Ortega (Triple Crown)

Lucas Rivet (Asociación Cruce a Nado Río de la Plata)

:: ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE

Hans Henrik H. Heming (Ocean steward, long-distance swimmer, and economist)

:: INCLUSION & DIVERSITY COMMITTEE

Christine Coppola (Triathlete, open water swimmer, HR executive)

REPORT:

For the full report press release see Official Statement on the Denial of Ratification for Diana Nyad's Swim https://www.openwaterswimming.com/wowsa-advisory-boards-decision-on-diana-nyads-2013-cuba-to-florida-swim/

About The World Open Water Swimming Association:

World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) supports a global community of open water swimmers committed to safety, sportsmanship, and adventure. Our platform serves as a go-to resource for swimmers and coaches seeking events, community, and education.

Press Contact:

Quinn Fitzgerald

Phone: 925-219-2107

Email: contact@openwaterswimming.com

Website: https://www.openwaterswimming.com/

Resources:

Supplementary Report on the Diana Nyad Cuba-Florida Swim (2013) Issues Index September 2023.

https://www.openwaterswimming.com/report-on-the-cuba-florida-swim-2013-issues-index/

The Diana Nyad Cuba-Florida Swim 2013 Report August 2022.

https://www.openwaterswimming.com/the-diana-nyad-cuba-florida-swim-2013-report-2022/

Related link: https://www.openwaterswimming.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Sep, 18
2023
Business, Free News Articles, Sports and Activities

Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) Receives Congressional Support to Allow Visas for Foreign Players

ONTARIO, Calif. -- The Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) received support from the U.S. House of Representatives Soccer Caucus this week to help highly talented players be granted visas to play in the United States. Professional soccer players from around the world are currently being denied entry into the United States despite the clear intention of Congress to make sure professional athletes are able to enter the country.

In 2019 the MASL had 76 players with active P1 Visas competing and contributing to the overall competitive caliber of the league, today there are only eight players with active P1 Visas. With this shift many talented individuals have had to return to their native countries, many after establishing themselves as esteemed members of their communities.

The MASL represents the highest level of professional indoor soccer in the world and therefore draws top-tier players from across the globe including many stars of international play. Teams need to be able to recruit the very best the soccer world has in order to maintain the fast-paced, technical and exciting games fans and sponsors love.

The U.S. House of Representatives Soccer Caucus and co-chairs Darin LaHood (R-IL 18th District), Rick Larsen (D-WA 2nd District), Don Bacon (R-NE 2nd District), and Kathy Castor (D-FL 14th District) have stepped in and are urging the Department of Homeland Security to fix the problem. The Caucus has sent a letter to Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging Homeland Security take immediate action to fix this issue.

This problem is causing havoc for professional soccer players and their families as many of them count on this income to be able to not only support themselves in the United States but be able to send money back to their families in their own country. In addition, many of these players have been in the United States previously under visas and were great citizens on and off the field. Many of these professional soccer players give back to their communities in the form of visits to hospitals, schools and teaching soccer clinics to young and under privileged children.

Claysson Azevedo De Lima, a Brazilian national, has been in the United States on P1A status since first signing with the Ontario Fury (now Empire Strykers) before the 2017-18 MASL season. After leading Ontario Fury to the Ron Newman Cup Finals during the 2020-21 season, Claysson was named "Goalkeeper of the Year." In August of 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) renewed Claysson's P1A status as an internationally recognized athlete, however, in June 2023, that status was revoked by USCIS and Claysson currently finds himself unable to play professional soccer in the United States.

Specifically, USCIS determined that the MASL is not a "major sports league," and therefore Claysson is no longer deemed to be an internationally recognized athlete coming to the United States to participate in competitions with distinguished reputation(s).

The MASL joins members of the U.S. House of Representatives Soccer Caucus in calling on Homeland Security Secretary Mayorcas to help with this situation. Our league, its fans, coaches, ownership and most importantly our players from around the world are just looking for the same protection to MASL players that has been extended to players in other major sports leagues.

About Major Arena Soccer League:

The Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) is the highest level of professional indoor soccer, featuring teams stretching across North America, from coast to coast in the United States and Mexico. The MASL's players originate from over 30 nations, representing the best talent from across the globe. Learn more at: https://www.maslsoccer.com/

Related link: https://www.maslsoccer.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Sep, 14
2023
Alliances and Partnerships, Business, Free News Articles, Software, Sports and Activities

Minnesota Youth Soccer Association Announces Five-Year Renewal of Partnership with Sports Connect

EAGAN, Minn. -- Stack Sports, the largest and fastest-growing global provider of sports technology, announced today that it has extended its partnership with The Minnesota Youth Soccer Association, Inc. (MYSA), which will leverage the Sports Connect platform for its state and member club management for another five-year span. As strategic partners, both organizations are committed to supporting the members of Minnesota Youth Soccer to make soccer easy for volunteers, administrators, coaches, and parents.

"We are honored to continue our partnership with Sports Connect. Our relationship has proven that Sports Connect is the best platform capable of servicing our members and providing industry-leading technology solutions to support volunteers, coaches, and administrators across the state," said Ayla Lokkesmoe, Chief Executive Officer of Minnesota Youth Soccer. "Several Minnesota Youth Soccer programs already trust Sports Connect with their club management needs, and we are confident that our continued partnership will guarantee clubs the most innovative solution on the market along with unmatched support for the volunteers and administrators that make each season possible."

Member clubs partnering with Sports Connect have access to a full suite of features, including Mobile-First Registration, a connected mobile app experience via Stack Team App, seamless data integration, exclusive website designs, secure online payment processing, and much more.

"Minnesota Youth Soccer has been a valued partner of Sports Connect and we are honored to extend our long-standing relationship," said Adam Abney, General Manager of Sports Connect. "At the forefront of Minnesota Youth Soccer's mission and core values has been their support and efforts of making soccer the preeminent sport for all children and creating a lifelong passion for the game. Our partnership perfectly aligns and prospers continued innovation and resources that will serve our shared mission of giving more young players the opportunity to play sports."

With the expansion of its partnership with Minnesota Youth Soccer, Sports Connect now functions as an official registration and technology provider for affiliated MYSA soccer clubs and leagues. With over 20 years of partner-first service, Sports Connect provides unprecedented scale and best-in-class technology with the goal of increasing sports participation and transforming the sports experience.

To learn more about Sports Connect features for Minnesota Youth Soccer, visit https://sportsconnect.com/minnesota-youth-soccer/.

About The Minnesota Youth Soccer Association:

For more than 50 years, MYSA has been helping member clubs provide a safe and meaningful soccer experience for Minnesota youth. They were founded in 1969 as the Minnesota Junior Soccer League and incorporated in 1987 as the Minnesota Youth Soccer Association. MYSA is a non-profit organization and a member of US Youth Soccer and U.S. Soccer. The governing body's mission is to be a partner, build a strong foundation, and unite the Minnesota soccer community.

About Stack Sports:

With nearly 50 million users in 35 countries, Stack Sports is a global technology leader in SaaS platform offerings for the sports industry. The company provides world-class software and services to support national governing bodies, youth sports associations, leagues, clubs, parents, coaches, and athletes. Some of the largest and most prominent sports organizations including the U.S. Soccer Federation, Little League Baseball and Softball, and Pop Warner Little Scholars rely on Stack Sports technology to run and manage their organizations.

Stack Sports is headquartered in Dallas and is leading the industry one team at a time focusing on four key pillars - Grassroots Engagement, Participation Growth, Recruiting Pathways, and Elite Player Development. To learn more about how Stack Sports is transforming the sports experience, please visit https://stacksports.com/.

Related link: https://stacksports.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Sep, 13
2023
Alliances and Partnerships, Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles, Sports and Activities

Toyota and Hang Media Partner to Offer a Grand New and Connected Way to Watch The HBCU NY Classic From MetLife Stadium

NEW YORK, N.Y -- Toyota, whose first‐ever 2024 Grand Highlander SUV touts "the best views from every row," will be offering fans the best viewing experience when Morehouse College faces Albany State University in the 2nd annual HBCU NY Classic football game at MetLife Stadium on Saturday, September 16. Teaming with HANG, the leading fan-athlete community, Toyota will be hosting a virtual watch party in which fans will mingle with athletes and celebrities in a video chat room while watching the action on TV. Howard University Class of '22 graduate and multiple Emmy nominee Anthony Anderson, and Morehouse alums Isaac Keys, the actor and former NFL star and Edwin Moses, the renowned track and field champion, will watch from a Toyota suite at the game.

Anderson will be flipping the coin at the start of the game, which Toyota is sponsoring for the second straight year. He'll then head up to a skybox to socialize with fellow alums for what will be his fourth HANG party, following two HBCU Celebration Bowl HANGS as well as the Kentucky Derby. Isaac Keys- an ex‐linebacker who appreciates every inch of extra space-will be showcasing the roomier‐than‐ever 2024 Grand Highlander at Toyota's pre‐game YardFest at MetLife.

Joining Anderson, Keys and Moses virtually will be HBCU legend Aeneas Williams (NFL Hall of Famer and Southern University alum) as well as current NFL standouts Grover Stewart (Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle and Albany State graduate), Joshua Williams (Kansas City Chiefs cornerback and Fayetteville State alum) and University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff graduates Terron Armstead (Miami Dolphins four‐time Pro Bowl left tackle) and his protégé, Mark Evans II (New Orleans Saints rookie offensive tackle).

Hundreds of thousands of HBCU supporters are expected to join the HANG either on camera, via text thread or by watching the live stream on YouTube, Facebook Live or Twitch.

"Toyota and HANG are a natural fit," said William Moore, VP/Media Director with Burrell Communications Group. "HANG watch parties create a comfortable space for the whole family to enjoy an amazing experience-just like the new Grand Highlander does. We're thrilled to be hosting an HBCU 'family reunion' where committed alumni, students and parents across the country can join the HBCU NY Classic without ever leaving home, while asking questions and swapping stories with legendary classmates and heroes. There's room to spare in a HANG, and in a Grand Highlander."

"The entire media industry is eager to engage audiences directly, and HANG has been ahead of the pack in understanding the power of eliminating the middleman," said Jon Klein, HANG's co‐founder and CEO and the former president of CNN/US. "We've learned that the glue connecting athletes, fans and brands is love-the fans' love of their teams and favorite players; the athletes' love of getting out from under the helmet to reveal the fully‐formed person inside and everyone's love of products that make their lives easier and more fun."

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next‐generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 48,000 people in North America, who have contributed to the design, engineering and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota's 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 20 electrified options, with more in showrooms later this year.

Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic and governmental organizations to address our society's most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

About HANG

Hang Media, winner of the 2023 Cynopsis Sports Award for best production innovation, is the leading celebrity‐fan community, with nearly one million views of each virtual watch party around majors ports events including pro and college football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Since HANG's founding in September 2021, nearly 20 million sports fans have come face to face with their idols ‐ star athletes, performers, and influencers - while everyone watches the game on their own TV's. It's a dream come true for sports lovers, who get to have fun and frank conversations with their heroes about life on and off the field, play trivia contests, and sample products delivered by top sponsors including Coca‐Cola, Wells Fargo, MolsonCoors, Dave & Busters, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Pernod Ricard, and others.

Join the fun at https://letshang.live

MEDIA CONTACT:

LeslieAnne Wade

Hang Media

Lwade@wademediamanagment.com

917-751-7693

Related link: https://letshang.live/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Sep, 13
2023
Education and Schools, Free News Articles, Sports and Activities

From Classroom to Career: Two We Are G.A.M.E. Alumni Kickstart Their Professional Lives

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Graduating from college and embarking on a professional career is a rite of passage for young adults. This summer, two talented alumni from We Are G.A.M.E. have made that important leap: Bailey Wong and Hannah Walker. Their stories serve as an inspiration for aspiring student-athletes and highlight the power of education and mentorship.

Bailey Wong is a shining example of how hard work and determination can pay off. After graduating summa cum laude from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona's College of Environmental Design, Bailey's passion for urban and regional planning, social justice, and community development found the perfect outlet. She took internships at organizations like Eco Rapid Transit, where she created alignment maps, and Strategic Action for a Just Economy (SAJE), where she researched vacant public-owned properties in Los Angeles.

These internships honed her skills and enabled her to land a position as a Data Analyst and Community Engagement Coordinator at Murakawa Communications right after graduation. Now, she gets to use her degree and focus on community development every day in her new role.

Hannah Walker's journey from student-athlete to a career in marketing and communications showcases the value of pursuing your dreams. While completing her Master of Business Administration (MBA) at California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB), Hannah also worked with CSUB Athletics as a Marketing and Fan Experience Graduate Assistant. She was able to complete her bachelor's degree debt-free, thanks to a full-ride track and field scholarship, paving the way for her master's degree. Now, she's channeled her experiences into a role as the program's Communication and Marketing Specialist, where she is responsible for developing and executing marketing plans and advertising campaigns to support CSUB Athletics.

Both Bailey and Hannah have benefitted greatly from the support they received from their We Are G.A.M.E. mentors. By empowering them with the tools and skills needed to excel in the world of college athletics and academics, We Are G.A.M.E. has helped these two incredible student-athletes transition into successful careers. They have not only navigated higher education successfully but have also been set up for long-term success in their chosen fields.

Empowering the Next Generation of Student-Athletes

We Are G.A.M.E., Inc., stands for "Those Empowering Athletes by Mentoring" (T.E.A.M.), and is comprised of community members committed to supporting student-athletes. The nonprofit focuses on helping young athletes achieve their full potential, both on and off the field, by providing mentorship, support, advice, and life guidance.

By identifying student-athletes as early as ninth grade, We Are G.A.M.E. aims to positively impact their lives. The organization's mentors work with students and their parents to develop game plans that prioritize both academic excellence and athletic success. By encouraging a strong focus on education, We Are G.A.M.E. ensures that young athletes are equipped to thrive in their future careers.

To learn more about We Are G.A.M.E. and the incredible work they do for student-athletes, visit their website at https://www.wearegame.org/.

Contact information:

Allen Thigpen

wearegame3@gmail.com

800-576-0413 x 103

424-294-1248

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/WeAreGAMEinc

DJ Reed on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3Ulhpa7fsc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAGamePlan

Related link: https://www.wearegame.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Aug, 31
2023
Alliances and Partnerships, Business, Free News Articles, Software, Sports and Activities

The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association, Inc. Extends Long-Standing Partnership with Sports Connect

LEOMINSTER, Mass. -- Stack Sports, the largest and fastest-growing global provider of sports technology, announced today that it has extended its partnership with The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association, Inc. (Mass Youth Soccer), which will leverage the Sports Connect platform for its state and member club management. As strategic partners, both organizations are committed to supporting the members of Mass Youth Soccer to make soccer easy for volunteers, administrators, coaches, and parents.

"We are excited to continue to partner with Sports Connect. Our relationship has proven that Sports Connect is the best platform capable of managing our unique compliance needs and the most prepared to help our members," said Rob Holliday, Executive Director of Mass Youth Soccer. "Many Mass Youth Soccer programs already trust Sports Connect with their club management needs, and we are confident that our continued partnership will guarantee clubs the most innovative solution on the market along with unmatched support for the volunteers and administrators that make each season possible."

Member clubs partnering with Sports Connect have access to a full suite of features, including Mobile-First Registration, seamless data integration, exclusive website designs, secure online payment processing, and much more.

"Mass Youth Soccer has been a long-standing partner of Sports Connect and we are honored to extend the relationship," said Adam Abney, General Manager of Sports Connect. "For years, Mass Youth Soccer has supported US Soccer's efforts to make soccer the preeminent sport for all children, creating a lifelong passion and love for the game. Our partnership allows for continued innovation and resources that will serve our shared mission of giving more young players the opportunity to play sports."

With the expansion of its partnership with Mass Youth Soccer, Sports Connect now powers more than 20,000 sports clubs and leagues, and two million teams. Managing over $1 billion in payments annually, Sports Connect provides unprecedented scale and best-in-class technology with the goal of increasing sports participation and transforming the sports experience.

To learn more about Sports Connect features for Mass Youth Soccer, visit: https://sportsconnect.com/massachusetts-youth-soccer/.

About The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association, Inc.:

Mass Youth Soccer, a nonprofit educational and service organization, is dedicated to the equitable and ongoing development of youth soccer players, coaches, referees, clubs, and leagues in an inclusive, unbiased, safe, affordable, and fun environment. To learn more about Mass Youth Soccer go to https://www.mayouthsoccer.org/.

About Stack Sports:

With nearly 50 million users in 35 countries, Stack Sports is a global technology leader in SaaS platform offerings for the sports industry. The company provides world-class software and services to support national governing bodies, youth sports associations, leagues, clubs, parents, coaches, and athletes. Some of the largest and most prominent sports organizations including the U.S. Soccer Federation, Little League Baseball and Softball, and Pop Warner Little Scholars rely on Stack Sports technology to run and manage their organizations.

Stack Sports is headquartered in Dallas and is leading the industry one team at a time focusing on four key pillars - Grassroots Engagement, Participation Growth, Recruiting Pathways, and Elite Player Development. To learn more about how Stack Sports is transforming the sports experience, please visit https://stacksports.com/.

Related link: https://stacksports.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Aug, 22
2023
Entertainment, Free News Articles, Sports and Activities

WOWSA Statement on ‘Nyad’ Movie on Netflix – The Swim, The Scandal, The Silence

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. -- Having received Diana Nyad's submissions for official swim ratification twice, the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) would like to provide perspective on Netflix's upcoming film "Nyad" featuring Annette Bening and Jodie Foster. It is important for viewers to understand that this film is based on Diana Nyad's book, which has not been rigorously fact-checked [1]. There is a potential risk that audiences might perceive this docudrama as a fully factual account of Nyad's swim from Cuba to Florida.

Steven Munatones, former owner, and founder of WOWSA was a consultant for the screenplay. He has played varying roles in the marathon swimming community, from promoter/blogger to ratifying body founder. His shifting roles have contributed to a decade-long controversy surrounding Nyad's swim [2]. Munatones is no longer affiliated with WOWSA.

After her arrival at Smathers Beach in Key West, Florida, Nyad declared her record in a press conference. She improvised rules, was engulfed in media attention, and finally wrote a book with inconsistencies. She later came to the realization that her swim lacked official ratification. Munatones redirected her towards the Halls of Fame, which don't ratify swims. As it stands, her swim remains unratified [2].

Promises made by both Nyad and Munatones in a 2013 press conference to release observer logs and GPS data went unfulfilled. The comprehensive details of the swim only surfaced with the 2022 Nyad report. A significant gap in the records, particularly during a period when Nyad's condition shifted dramatically, calls for further expert analysis [2].

Munatones admitted to not ratifying any swims he promoted, leading to controversies like the Nejib Belhedi scandal. He also introduced phantom governing bodies and ambiguously framed Nyad's ratification over the years [2].

Nyad's refusal to accept offers for an 'assisted' ratification review, despite her swim falling under this category, raises eyebrows. Her portrayal of the endeavor as her "dream swim" achieved by her "Xtreme Dream Team" prompts the question: Why decline an official ratification, especially on the eve of the movie's release [2].

Guinness World Records (GWR) initially recognized the achievement based on the recommendation of their then open water swimming consultant, Steven Munatones. However, in light of recent findings by WOWSA, GWR has confirmed they no longer recognize Nyad's swim as record-breaking [3].

Netflix, alerted to the controversies just weeks before the release, was advised by WOWSA to include a disclaimer emphasizing the film's dramatized nature.

Marathon swimming, like any sport, operates under established rules ensuring fairness, safety, and authenticity. Ratification verifies an achievement.

As audiences dive into Netflix's portrayal of Nyad's journey, it's essential to watch with discernment, keeping in mind the discrepancies surrounding the swim.

For the full report, see The Diana Nyad Cuba-Florida Swim 2013 Report [2].

About The World Open Water Swimming Association:

World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) supports a global community of open water swimmers committed to safety, sportsmanship, and adventure. Our platform serves as a go-to resource for swimmers and coaches seeking events, community, and education.

Website: https://www.openwaterswimming.com/

PRESS CONTACT:

Quinn Fitzgerald

Phone: 925-219-2107

Email: contact@openwaterswimming.com

REFERENCES:

[1]
D. Nyad, Find a Way, Knopf, 2015.

[2]
T. Vlasto, "The Diana Nyad Cuba-Florida Swim 2013 Report," 2022. [Online]. Available: https://www.openwaterswimming.com/the-diana-nyad-cuba-florida-swim-2013-report-2022/.

[3]
Guinness Book of World Records, "Guinness Book of World Records," August 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/115501-first-person-to-swim-from-cuba-to-florida-without-a-shark-cage-or-fins.

Related link: https://www.openwaterswimming.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Aug, 10
2023
Environment and Ecology, Free News Articles, Government, NonProfit and Charities, Sports and Activities

California’s Sacramento River Trail and Rail Trail Inducted into Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s Hall of Fame

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nation's largest trails advocacy organization, today announced that California's Sacramento River Rail Trail and Sacramento River Trail will be inducted to its iconic Hall of Fame.

Nestled beneath the Cascade and Trinity mountains, the trails provide 21 miles of transportation and recreation along California's largest river. The trail pair was selected for outstanding merits, including RTC's expanded eligibility criteria this year, which prioritizes multiuse trails that deliver exceptional accessibility and user experience, and contributions to the connectivity of regional trail and active transportation systems.

"Across the country, connected trail systems are proving their significance as essential community assets-creating safe space for people to be active outside, connecting neighbors and neighborhoods, and creating more transportation and mobility options for entire regions," said Ryan Chao, president of RTC. "This year's Hall of Fame nominees were examples of exceptional trails that are fundamental to our vision of a future where trails connect everyone, everywhere. The Sacramento River Rail Trail and Trail stand out by illustrating the impact of connecting trails in ways that provide opportunities for recreation, transportation and intimate connections to the history and nature steeped in place."

Once serving as a travel and trade route for indigenous peoples, then later by a subsidiary of the Central Pacific Railroad, the Sacramento River Rail Trail and Sacramento River Trail provide opportunities for the community to be active, access the outdoors, and connect to neighborhoods and destinations in and around the City of Redding, including the Shasta Lake Recreation Area and the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. The trails also serve as a backbone for a developing regional trail system that encompasses more than 250 miles and will eventually stretch from the Shasta Dam to Redding's southern neighbor, Anderson, and beyond.

"We are excited to share with the world that the Sacramento River Rail Trail and Trail are indeed Hall of Fame worthy. We are grateful for our many partners who have collaborated on the development and expansion of the trails and our many users and support organizations who make the trails better every day. We invite you to visit and experience these world-class trails and scenic river," said Kimberly Niemer, director of community services for the City of Redding.

The trails are home to the Sundial Bridge, an awe-inspiring feature that links both sides of the Upper Sacramento River. The 700-foot-long, cable-stayed, glass and steel working sundial spanning the Sacramento River attracts an estimated 100,000 global visitors each year.

The bridge, park and Redding's vast network of trails-built in phases over the past three decades - have helped transform the region. The vast regional system of trails is a product of a partnership managed by the City of Redding, the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service with the support of local groups, foundations, other agencies and community members.

"We are proud to partner with the City of Redding and other groups in managing these trails that improve the quality of life for residents of our area, while offering destination-worthy opportunities for outdoor recreation," said Jennifer Mata, manager of the BLM's Redding Field Office.

The trail pair was among three nominees voted on by the public between Jul. 31 and Aug. 7, 2023, securing nearly 48% of the vote. The Sacramento River Rail Trail and Trail duo is the 37th inductee in RTC's Hall of Fame, joining an exemplary list of trails recognized for their outstanding scenic value, use, amenities, historical significance and community benefit. More than 30,000 votes were cast in the 2023 Hall of Fame contest. The other nominees were the Hennepin Canal State Trail in Illinois and the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail network in South Carolina.

For more information about the Hall of Fame, visit railstotrails.org.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is the nation's largest trails organization - with a grassroots community more than 1 million strong - dedicated to building a nation connected by trails, reimagining public spaces to create safe ways for everyone to walk, bike and be active outdoors.

Connect with RTC at https://www.railstotrails.org and @railstotrails on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT: Patricia Brooks, Patricia@matchmapmedia.com, 202.351.1757

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/y6U-Re1nKRM

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.traillink.com/trail/sacramento-river-rail-trail/

https://www.cityofredding.org/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks

https://www.railstotrails.org/trailblog/2013/september/12/the-road-to-a-thousand-wonders/

https://www.railstotrails.org/our-work/trail-promotion/rail-trail-hall-of-fame/

Related link: https://www.railstotrails.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Aug, 10
2023
Business, Free News Articles, Product Launches, Software, Sports and Activities

Meridix Transforms into Stack Streaming After Joining Forces with Stack Sports

PLANO, Texas -- Meridix, a leading provider of cutting-edge live streaming solutions, is proud to unveil its new identity as Stack Streaming, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth. This relaunch comes after the successful acquisition earlier this year of Meridix by Stack Sports, a prominent sports technology company. The strategic move promises to leverage the synergies between the two entities to enhance the live streaming experience for sports enthusiasts worldwide.

With a shared mission to transform the sports experience and elevate fan engagement through innovative media solutions, the strategic decision to relaunch as Stack Streaming embodies the united spirit and collaborative drive of these merged entities. This relaunch marks a significant step towards expanding the reach of live events and fostering active participation, further enriching the way sports are experienced and enjoyed.

Stack Streaming has seamlessly integrated into the Stack Sports ecosystem, further solidifying its position as a vital component within the sports technology conglomerate. As part of this integration, Stack Streaming has taken center stage in powering the "Area Code Games," a prominent Stack Sports event. The seamless integration demonstrates the commitment to elevate sports experiences and engagement to unprecedented heights.

Stack Streaming will continue to build upon Meridix's strong foundation as a pioneer in live streaming services, offering a diverse range of solutions tailored to meet the needs of sports organizations, schools, teams, and broadcasters. Customers can expect even greater levels of service, reliability, and innovation as Stack Sports and Stack Streaming work together to optimize the live streaming experience.

"We are thrilled to announce our rebranding as Stack Streaming and becoming a full services asset in the Stack Sports ecosystem," said Tyler Feret, GM of Digital Media. "This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our journey. By joining forces with Stack Sports, we aim to transform the sports streaming landscape and deliver unparalleled experiences to fans, athletes, and coaches around the world."

Stack Streaming's advanced technology ensures seamless, high-quality live streaming of sporting events across various platforms and devices. With a user-friendly interface, interactive features, and robust analytics capabilities, Stack Streaming empowers sports organizations to engage with their audiences on a whole new level.

"We see tremendous potential in Stack Streaming and see this step forward as a way to solidify our commitment to revolutionizing sports media," said Brandon Shangraw, Vice President of Marketing and Innovation at Stack Sports. "Together, we will create an ecosystem that increases participation and transforms the sports experience for all stakeholders - from athletes and coaches to fans and broadcasters."

Stack Streaming's rebranding comes with a new look and feel to better reflect its integration into the stack sports ecosystem while preserving its commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer-centricity.

For more information about Stack Streaming's live streaming solutions, please visit https://www.stackstreaming.com/.

About Stack Streaming:

Stack Streaming, formerly known as Meridix, is a leading provider of live streaming solutions for the sports industry. With a history of excellence in technology and customer satisfaction, Stack Streaming is committed to revolutionizing sports media and enhancing the live streaming experience for fans, athletes, and coaches worldwide.

About Stack Sports:

With nearly 50 million users in 35 countries, Stack Sports is a global technology leader in SaaS platform offerings for the sports industry. The company provides world-class software and services to support national governing bodies, youth sports associations, leagues, clubs, parents, coaches, and athletes. Some of the largest and most prominent sports organizations including the U.S. Soccer Federation, Little League Baseball and Softball, and Pop Warner Little Scholars rely on Stack Sports technology to run and manage their organizations. Stack Sports is headquartered in Dallas and is leading the industry one team at a time focusing on four key pillars - Grassroots Engagement, Participation Growth, Recruiting Pathways, and Elite Player Development. To learn more about how Stack Sports is transforming the sports experience, please visit https://stacksports.com/.

Related link: https://stacksports.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

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