Category: sports

VensureHR and American Association Celebrate Extension of Strategic Collaboration

March 21, 2025: Moorehead, MN – The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) and VensureHR are pleased to announce the extension of their partnership.

This three-year agreement continues VensureHR’s role as the exclusive and preferred supplier in the payroll category for the league.

VensureHR, a leading professional employer organization (PEO), provides comprehensive human resource solutions for businesses of all sizes. Committed to simplifying HR management complexities, VensureHR offers a wide range of services, including payroll administration, employee benefits, risk management, and compliance assistance. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and a team of seasoned HR professionals, VensureHR delivers tailored solutions to meet each client’s unique needs.

“We are excited to extend our alliance with VensureHR and utilize their payroll services. The American Association and our member clubs look forward to benefiting from their innovative products and solutions as we grow as a league. Their expertise in streamlining payroll, and HR administration, while managing worker benefits and minimizing employer risks is a perfect match for our league,” said American Association Commissioner Joshua Schaub.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the AAPB for years to come. Their commitment to excellence, passion for the game, and professionalism make them the right partner for our organization. The partnership has allowed us to reach new audiences and enhance our visibility, all while fostering a deeper connection to the baseball community,” said Joel Pearson, Area Vice President for VensureHR.

The partnership was brokered by SRS Partners, the exclusive sponsorship sales agency for the American Association.

VensureHR

VensureHR is a part of Vensure Employer Solutions, the largest privately held organization in HR technology, managed services, and global business process outsourcing (BPO). The company and its service providers collectively serve over 141,000 businesses and process over $158B in annual payroll. As a “One Employer Solution” headquarted in Chandler, Arizona, Vensure helps thousands of businesses streamline and grow their operations with custom strategies that benefit both employers and employees. Find out more by visiting vensure.com.

American Association

The American Association of Professional Baseball (www.aabaseball.com) and (www.aabaseball.tv) is a Major League Baseball Partner League that operates in nine states and one Canadian province. Formed in 2006, the league consists of twelve member clubs with many beginning play in 1993. Through the 2024 season, 450 player contracts have been transferred to MLB organizations. In addition, 57 AAPB alumni have reached the Majors, including 19 participating in 2024.

SRS Partners

SRS Partners was founded by Seth Frankenthal, and focuses on properties, brands, and rightsholder negotiations. As an exclusive agency of the AAPB, SRS Partners has led all league sponsorship since 2021. SRS Partners can be found at (www.srspartners.com) and all inquiries can be addressed to Sponsorship@srspartners.com or to Seth at Seth@srspartners.com.

Pierre Gasly Donates 2025 Race-Used Helmet for Charity Auction

March 19, 2025– F1® Authentics – the official F1® memorabilia platform run by Memento Exclusives under licence of Formula 1® – is running an exclusive auction on its platform, in collaboration with BWT Alpine Formula One® Team driver, Pierre Gasly. The auction features his race used fan-designed helmet, worn at the 2025 season opener in Melbourne, Australia, which will also be signed.

The helmet was created through a user-driven initiative with Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, where fans from around the world submitted their designs. The winning concept was then brought to life through a striking Melbourne mural by renowned street artist Matt Adnate, known for his impactful, large-scale cultural inspired works.

The Australian Grand Prix was rain-stricken, with intermittent downpours impacting the on-track action and team’s having to manage tyre strategies carefully. At multiple times throughout the 57-lap race, the lead changed hands and drivers moved up and down the points zone. Out of the 20 drivers who started, only 14 reached the finish line, making it a dramatic and exciting season-opener for fans. Gasly showed strong pace from behind the wheel of his A525 throughout the race. Now, one lucky collector will have the chance to own the very unique helmet, worn by Gasly during the Grand Prix.

All proceeds of the auction will be donated to CROW Youth Boxing, a charity working to empower First Nations youth through sport and community programmes. CROW stands for Courageous, Resilient, Original, Warrior, which are qualities that the charity encourages and promotes.
F1® Authentics’ auction of the race used helmet, which will be signed by Gasly, will close on 8th April 2025, giving fans and collectors time to place their bids for a chance to secure history. With this helmet coming from the first race of the season it offers a phenomenal opportunity to own history in the making.

BWT Alpine Formula One® Team driver, Pierre Gasly commented:

“This is my second helmet design collaboration with Binance and I always enjoy how their users create unique, fan-driven concepts. The number of designs received for this Australian GP helmet was overwhelming and I truly love the winning design, which highlights Australia’s diverse arts and culture. It will be auctioned to raise funds for CROW Youth Boxing, a local charity doing amazing work to empower First Nations youth through sports and community programs. It’s a true honor to support such a meaningful cause.”

Nikita Rose Rotumah, Founder at CROW Boxing said:

“At CROW Youth Boxing, we empower First Nations youth through sport, using boxing as a tool to teach resilience, discipline, and self-determination. CROW stands for Courageous, Resilient, Original, Warrior – qualities we encouraged young people embrace both in the gym and in life. The funds raised will provide essential boxing gear, healthy meals, and comprehensive support for First Nations youth who are often marginalized. We deeply appreciate the support from Pierre and Binance in championing our mission, supporting positive change for First Nation youth and believing in the potential of our young warriors”.

Sarah Dale, Global Brand Partnerships, Binance, said:

“It’s amazing to see this project bring together sport, art, and community in a unique way. The user-designed helmet is a true celebration of creativity and partnership – and auctioning it for CROW Youth Boxing makes it even more meaningful. They do incredible work supporting First Nations youth, and Binance is proud to be part of this initiative alongside Pierre to help contribute to their mission.”

Barry Gough, Founder & CEO of Memento Exclusives (F1® Authentics) commented:

“We are proud to be supporting this incredible charity and the important work they do, in collaboration with Pierre Gasly. There has been so much anticipation for the new season and so we’re thrilled to be able to offer a genuine piece of history from the very first race.”

Globalsports India Athletes Triumph at Asia Pickleball Open in Pattaya, Securing Major Medals

Pattaya, Thailand – March 19th, 2025: The Asia Pickleball Open, a prestigious event in the World Pickleball Series, recently concluded in Pattaya, Thailand. The tournament featured three competitive levels—Intermediate (3.5), Advanced (4.5), and Professional (5.0)—attracting top talent from across Asia.Athletes from Globalsports India, including Himanshu Deveskar, Mihika Yadav, and Shraddha Damani, delivered an outstanding performance, securing multiple medals across various categories. Competing against elite international players, they showcased their exceptional skills and reaffirmed India’s growing dominance in pickleball, particularly in the 4.5 and 5.0 levels.

Globalsports India has been instrumental in developing and promoting pickleball in the country, focusing on athlete training, international exposure, and competitive excellence. The organization’s dedication to advancing the sport is evident in its athletes’ consistent success on global platforms. With this remarkable showing at the Asia Pickleball Open, India continues to cement its place as a rising powerhouse in the sport.

Medal-Winning Performances by Globalsports Athletes:

Himanshu Deveskar

One of India’s top-ranked players in the 35+ category, Himanshu has consistently secured podium finishes in major domestic tournaments and won medals for India at the USA Open Pickleball Championships 2024.

• Gold – 35+ Open Men’s Doubles (Partner: Ign Alit, Indonesia) | Score: 21/4
•  Gold – 35+ Open Men’s Singles | Score: 21/15

Mihika Yadav

A former Tennis National Champion and Asian Junior Champion, Mihika has represented India at the Junior Fed Cup and competed in all four Junior Grand Slams—Australian Open, Wimbledon, French Open, and US Open.

•  Silver – 19+ Open Women’s Singles | Score: 17/21

Shraddha Damani

A former India No. 4 in U-16 tennis and world-ranked ITF Junior player, Shraddha’s transition to pickleball has been nothing short of spectacular.

•  Gold – 35+ Women’s Singles (Advanced Category 4.5) | Score: 21/3
•  Bronze – 35+ Open Women’s Singles (Professional Category 5.0) | Score: 11/8
•  Gold – 35+ Mixed Doubles (Advanced Category 4.5) (Partner: Hemal Jain) | Score: 21/9

Speaking about the victory, Himanshu Deveskar said, “Winning two golds at such a prestigious tournament is an incredible feeling. Competing alongside and against some of the best in the region has been an enriching experience.”

Shraddha Damani, who secured three medals, added, “This tournament has been a great platform to showcase the growing strength of Indian pickleball. The competition was fierce, but we were determined to make our country proud.”

Hemal Jain, Founder of Globalsports Pickleball, emphasized the organization’s vision, stating, “At Globalsports, our goal has always been to put India on the world map for pickleball. These remarkable performances by our athletes highlight the immense potential we have as a nation in this sport. We remain committed to nurturing talent and providing them with the platform to excel globally.”

Globalsports’ athletes continue to elevate Indian pickleball, setting new benchmarks in international tournaments. With this outstanding performance at the Asia Pickleball Open, India has further strengthened its position as a rising powerhouse in the sport.

TECNO’s SignalJeetKa Campaign Hits the Pitch with Kolkata Knight Riders

New Delhi, March 19, 2025: Hold on to your seats, cricket fans! TECNO, the innovative tech brand that’s all about embracing India’s unstoppable energy, has teamed up with the iconic Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). This electrifying partnership is all about celebrating the passion of India’s youth and cricket enthusiasts, and it’s going to be bigger, bolder, and more exciting than ever!

Cricket in India isn’t just a sport—it’s a heartbeat, a celebration, and a way of life. TECNO has always been at the forefront of keeping fans connected to the action with its sleek, powerful smartphones, designed to provide seamless signal and connectivity experience. And now, with #SignalJeetKa, TECNO is stepping up its game to ensure you never miss a single boundary, wicket, or super over.

Mr. Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of TECNO Mobile India, shared, “We’re excited to partner with Kolkata Knight Riders. Cricket is an emotion that unites millions, and it aligns perfectly with TECNO’s mission to empower India’s youth. Through our #SignalJeetKa initiative, we aim to ensure fans stay connected and never miss a moment of the thrilling action. Just as KKR gives their all on the field, we’re committed to delivering the best technology to keep fans at the heart of the game.”

KKR’s #KorboLorboJeetbo motto mirrors TECNO’s “Stop At Nothing” ethos, championing relentless hustle, teamwork, and the vibrant culture of cricket. This partnership reflects TECNO’s ongoing efforts to engage with India’s youth—a generation passionate about both technology and sports. By leveraging advanced products and unparalleled signal connectivity, TECNO reinforces its position as a brand that champions performance, excellence, and seamless connectivity in every aspect of life.

Binda Day, CMO, Knight Riders Sports, stated, “Technology is at the forefront of cricket’s growth, especially in India. Our partnership with TECNO is an opportunity to promote a seamless collaboration in this respect. At the Knight Riders, we believe in creating an immersive experience for our fans by bringing them closer to the game we love and that will be our aim through this partnership.”

BBL Season 2 Finale Welcomes High-Octane Action as One7sports Elevates Corporate Cricket

March 18th, 2025:  ONE7 Sports – north India’s largest, privately owned sports park, spread across 24 acres of land, strategically located in the heart of Gurgaon City proudly unveiled Big Boys League (BBL) Season 2 in the month of Dec 2024. It is a one-of-a-kind T20 cricket league where corporate professionals swap their boardroom suits for cricket jerseys. This unique platform brings together players from prominent organizations showcasing exceptional cricketing talent from Delhi NCR.

In a nail-biting final showdown of the Big Boys League (BBL) Season 2 – organised by One7 sports, Orange Horses emerged victorious over Black Dogs by 14 runs, claiming the championship title in an electrifying contest that had fans on the edge of their seats. The high-octane match showcased incredible talent, resilience, and sportsmanship, marking a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable season. The Orange Horses displayed an all-around performance, holding their nerves under pressure to secure the well-deserved win. Their consistent teamwork and strategic play ensured their dominance in the final match.

Top Performers of BBL Season 2

• Man of the Series – Rohit Rathi (Orange Horses)
• Bowler of the Series – Sunil Chauhan (Black Dogs)
• Batsman of the Series – Gaurav Gautam (Grey Elephant)

Each of these exceptional players showcased outstanding skills throughout the tournament, earning accolades for their stellar performances.

Speaking on the success of BBL Season 2, Mr. Ajay Chhangani Co- Founder and CEO – ONE7 Sports expressed gratitude to the teams, players, and fans for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. This season has been a testament to the spirit of the game. We witnessed some extraordinary performances and intense competition. Congratulations to Orange Horses on their well-earned victory, and hats off to all teams for making this season a spectacular one.”

With BBL Season 2 setting new benchmarks, One7sports looks forward to continuing its commitment to fostering competitive cricket and delivering high-quality sporting events.

ParX by Filium Takes Over Lady Golf with Exclusive Coachella Valley Pop-Up!

Coachella Valley, CA (March 18, 2025)– Filium is making waves in the world of high-performance apparel with the launch of its exclusive Filium-activated ParX pop-up at the renowned Lady Golf the Fashion House boutique in Coachella Valley, the mecca of the golf world. The pop-up is now open and will run through the end of April, offering golf enthusiasts and fashion-forward consumers a firsthand look at the cutting-edge technology and sustainable innovation behind ParX apparel.

Filium-activated ParX technology represents the future of fabric innovation—combining performance, sustainability, and effortless wearability. Designed for active lifestyles, Filium-activated apparel repels liquids, resists odors, and remains breathable, all while maintaining the natural feel of premium fabrics. This innovative treatment enhances garments without sacrificing comfort, style, or environmental responsibility, making them an ideal choice for golf, leisure, and travel.

The pop-up is hosted at Lady Golf the Fashion House– The Fashion House, an exclusive women’s sportswear boutique known for its curation of high-end, one-of-a-kind collections from across the globe. Located in the heart of Coachella Valley in Palm Desert, home to world-famous music festivals and elite golf events, Lady Golf the Fashion House has been a premier destination for sophisticated, performance-driven apparel for over two decades.

Princess Karen Cantrell, founder of Lady Golf the Fashion House, is a pioneer in luxury retail, women’s sportswear, and philanthropy. With decades in high-end fashion and sports, she established Lady Golf the Fashion House in Palm Desert, California, as a premier destination for sophisticated, performance-driven apparel. A former Director of Couture at Saks Fifth Avenue, she has elevated women’s golf and equestrian fashion, bringing exclusive European and American designer labels to a global audience. Beyond retail, she champions women’s empowerment in sports and business, earning honors like the President Call to Service Lifetime Achievement Award. She also serves as Chairman of the United Nations Association of the Coachella Valley, furthering her commitment to global advocacy and community engagement. Through her leadership, Lady Golf the Fashion House continues to redefine luxury performance wear.

“ParX is the first brand to bring to the golf industry high-performance, all-natural, and versatile apparel with a high level of sustainability, thanks to its exclusive Filium technology,” said Princess Karen Cantrell, Founder of Lady Golf the Fashion House. “Filium takes natural fabrics and turns them supernatural—creating apparel that’s odor-resistant, stain- and liquid-repellent, and thermoregulated for better breathability. These features aren’t just innovative; they redefine what high-performance apparel can be. I’ve never seen one material technology provide so many benefits in a single collection. We live in a world today where we need clothing technology that can meet ever changing climate and that is what Filium provides with ParX apparel.”

The Filium-activated ParX pop-up at Lady Golf offers an exclusive selection of apparel, designed to elevate performance, withstand the elements, and maintain effortless style. Guests will have the opportunity to experience this groundbreaking technology firsthand and discover how ParX apparel seamlessly integrates into both sport and everyday life.

“At Filium, we believe in pushing the boundaries of performance fashion while staying true to sustainability,” said Raj Shah Co-Founder and CEO at Filium. “Partnering with Lady Golf to bring ParX to Coachella Valley is a testament to how innovation and luxury can coexist. Golfers and active individuals no longer have to compromise between style and function—ParX delivers both with unmatched technology and design.”

This collaboration marks a new era in sustainable performance fashion, where advanced fabric technology meets timeless design—all in the heart of Coachella Valley.

Women’s Cricket League 2025: A Grand Success at Ryan International Academy, Hinjawadi

Hinjawadi, March 17, 2024: The Women’s Cricket League 2024, hosted by Ryan International Academy, Hinjawadi, on March 1st and 8th, emerged as a resounding success, celebrating talent, teamwork, and the growing enthusiasm for women’s sports in the community.

The tournament witnessed participation from 128 women aged 18 to 50 years, representing 16 teams from various residential societies, including Yashwin, Tinsel County, Megapolis, Tinsel Town, High Mont, and Melange. The competition was intense, with Tinsel Town, High Mont, Melange, Eon Homes, and Life Republic securing their places in the semi-finals. In a thrilling final match, Eon Homes clinched the championship, while Tinsel Town finished as the runner-up. The event also saw the active involvement of parents, with approximately 30-40 mothers participating. The tournament received an overwhelmingly positive response from local communities, reinforcing the importance of women’s sports.

Eon Homes, who won the tournament, were honored with a trophy, gold medals, and participation certificates, while the runner-up team, Tinsel Town, received silver medal and participation certificates. Apart from the facilitation of winner and runner up teams respectively,other teams were also recognized with participation certificates.

Promoting Women’s Sports & Empowerment

The Women’s Cricket League 2025 served as an opportunity for women to not only display their sporting talent, but also aid in the development of confidence, friendship, and inclusivity in the sporting world. By fostering, and actively encouraging participation while breaking stereotypes, the event was able to make a positive impact in the community causing an increase of women wanting to partake in competitive sports.

This venture solely commissioned by Ryan International Academy, Hinjawadi, with no tie-up to residential societies, reinforces the regard the institution has on nurturing talent and setting women empowerment to greater heights in and out of the sports world.

Airo and Aether 2025: Mahindra University’s Sports and Cultural Fests Attract Citywide Participation

Hyderabad/New Delhi, 12th March 2025: Airo and Aether 2025, the annual sports and cultural fests of Mahindra University witnessed an overwhelming response, bringing together students, athletes, and performers in a celebration of talent, teamwork, and creativity.

Airo featured an exhilarating lineup of 16 sports, including cricket, kabaddi, basketball, football, tennis, and badminton and more. Students from institutions such as BITS Pilani, IIT Hyderabad, CBIT, Woxsen University and more participated.

Mahindra University secured the first place in cricket, throwball, volleyball, basketball (women’s), kabaddi (women’s), men’s tennis, and yoga. The university also earned runner-up positions in multiple categories, reaffirming its commitment to athletic excellence and sportsmanship.

AIRO 2025 announced the addition of new sports, including yoga, swimming, men’s throwball, women’s kabaddi, and women’s Kho Kho reinforcing the festival’s inclusivity and commitment to providing a broader platform for students to showcase their athletic abilities. The runner up for cricket was CBIT, BITS in women’s basketball and volleyball, Malla Reddy University in men’s volleyball, TKRES in men’s and women’s throwball, CMRIT in men’s Kho Kho and Little Flower in men’s tennis.

Aether 2025 captivated audiences with its “Wonderland” theme, transforming the campus into a realm of magic and wonder. The fest featured a diverse array of events, including the Battle of Brands, Mehfil, Photo Treasure Hunt, Street Photography talk, Terrarium Tales, Disco Royale, Squid Games 2.0, Cultural Night, Battle of Beats, BOB and BOV (Battle of Bands and Battle of Vocals), and many more.

Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice Chancellor of Mahindra University, emphasized that “We are proud to host our flagship student events Airo and Aether which offer excellent opportunities for students to showcase their talent and skills, practise collaboration and communication, and build lasting memories of the fun and excitement. The festival fosters a spirit of mutual appreciation and builds peer networks amongst the student community. We are grateful for the excellent participation and look forward to witnessing new talent as it grows.”

The event concluded with electrifying performances by Band Raag and PROJECT 91, which had the audience in high spirits.

Ambience Public School Welcomes Young Athletes to Its New Sports Excellence Centre

Gurugram, 11th March 2025: Ambience Public School, Sector 43, Gurgaon recently opened ‘Centre of Sports Excellence by Ambience, a premier facility designed to nurture young athletes across multiple discipline. With a structured approach to sports education, the centre is committed to empowering students to excel in their chosen fields and compete at higher levels.

Equipped with world-class infrastructure, including an Olympic-size swimming pool, professional tennis and badminton courts, a basketball arena, cricket and athletics tracks, shooting ranges, gymnastics facilities, and table tennis, the centre aims to provide top-tier training and mentorship. The New Centre of Sports Excellence distinguishes itself through its team of highly qualified coaches, who bring extensive experience in professional sports training. By focusing on skill development, discipline, and competitive preparedness, the centre has already produced students who have excelled in state and national-level competitions.

Ms. Garima Pandey, the Principal at Ambience Public School, said, “We believe that sports is not just about competition but about building character, resilience, and teamwork. The Centre of Sports Excellence by Ambience is a step towards providing students with the best-in-class training and infrastructure, helping them unlock their true potential and excel in their chosen sports. Our vision is to create an environment where young athletes can develop skills that will serve them both on and off the field.”

With its top-notch facilities and proven track record, the New Centre of Sports Excellence by Ambience Public School is rapidly gaining popularity among parents and students. By offering world-class training, expert coaching, and a supportive environment, the school continues to reinforce its commitment to holistic education and sports excellence. The increasing number of registrations reflects the growing trust and enthusiasm among parents and students, reinforcing the school’s reputation as a hub for sporting excellence.

KONAMI’s eFootball Celebrates Holi with Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

KONAMI’s eFootball™ teams up with Indian football captain Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Jonathan Gaming to celebrate Holi in India

INDIA, March 3, 2025: Konami Digital Entertainment, B.V. (KONAMI) is bringing the vibrant spirit of Holi to flagship football sim eFootball™ with a special campaign featuring Indian football captain Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, and professional esports player Jonathan Gaming. Running from 1st March to 26th March 2025, the campaign will spotlight India’s thriving eFootball™ community and feature top gaming personalities, such as Gamerfleet, Sharkshe, RK Reddy, Snax, and Eagle Gaming.

Bridging mainstream football and esports, this will offer players unique ways to connect with the game and their favourite athletes. Spearheading the campaign as brand ambassadors, Indian esports star Jonathan Gaming will be core to community engagement, while Gurpreet Singh Sandhu will reveal a special announcement during the campaign.

At the heart of the campaign is the “Goal Ke Rang” eFootball™ tournament, where players will compete for the title of India’s eFootball™ champion and a €1000 prize pool. Additional in-game campaigns exclusive to India will also be available soon.

Indian football captain Gurpreet Singh Sandhu shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying: “Football and gaming both demand skill, strategy, and passion – values that unite players on and off the pitch. Being part of this campaign is a chance to celebrate Holi with fans in a whole new way and bring that competitive spirit to eFootball™.”

KONAMI’s eFootball™ General Producer Makoto Igarashi added: “This campaign is all about bringing people who love football and gaming together – whether through competition, collaboration, or simply the shared love of the beautiful game. India’s eFootball™ community is booming and KONAMI hopes that partnering with Gurpreet, Jonathan, and some of India’s biggest gaming voices makes this Holi celebration one to remember.”