Shorts: Andy Murray, Salford City, Derby County

Sir Andy Murray’s plans to build a tennis centre in his hometown of Dunblane have been ditched due to planning issues and rising costs.

UK tennis legend Murray retired last month after competing in his last Olympic Games in Paris 2024.

The £20m legacy project, led by his mother Judy Murray, sought to build a community orientated, multi-sport facility at Park of Keir to exhibit the tennis legacy of the Murray family.

The Murray Play Foundation, founded by Judy Murray, said, it would no longer go ahead ‘with deep regret and sorrow.’

It has been reported by the BBC that the significant increases in energy and building costs alongside the prolonged planning process were among the reasons for ditching of the project.

Despite this, the charity has since expressed it would consider other initiatives to provide more individuals with opportunities to pursue physical activity and sport.

Salford City have extended their partnership with Fuel Hub.

First providing nutritional food boxes to the Ammies earlier this year, the UK based Fuel Hub have now penned an extension with EFL League Two club for the 2024/25 season.

Founded in 2019, the meal prep company now works with over 40 professional UK sports teams, including Manchester United, Chelsea and Fulham.

Salford City is owned by Project 92 Limited and is run by former Manchester United players known as the Class of 92.

James Parr, Head of Sport Science at Salford City said, “Because the meals are designed by nutritionists, they have the right balance of nutrients which is crucial for players to perform at their best and recover.”

Michelle Laithwaite, Co-Founder and CEO of Fuel Hub added, “We are proud to continue our partnership with Salford City for the 2024-25 season, providing them with premium, macro-controlled meals to fuel their performance.”

Derby County Women has signed Tonic Weight Loss Surgery as its new shirt sleeve sponsor.

The deal follows the announcement of Tonic Weight Loss Surgery as the men’s first team shirt sponsor. The UK weight loss surgery provider has now increased their collaboration with Derby County by becoming the women’s first team sleeve sponsor too.

The Ewe’s shirt for the 2024/25 campaign will feature Tonic’s logo on the sleeve, visible for the first time at their home fixture versus Wolverhampton Wanderers this Sunday.

Stephen Pearce, Derby County’s Chief Executive Officer said, “We have built up a strong connection with their team in a short period of time and we are really pleased to see them providing support to our Women’s side.”

Craig Chadwick, Commercial Director at Tonic Weight Loss Surgery said, “As a business, we strongly believe in empowering women both on and off the field and helping inspire the next generation of female athletes to reach new heights.”

Glamorgan Cricket has joined forces with Tixserve.

Digital ticket delivery company Tixserve new partnership with Glamorgan Cricket is its second major expansion into the cricketing world following the recent partnership with the Barmy Army.

Within this deal the new ‘Sophia Garden’s Ticketing’ app will be used for all cricket matches hosted at Glamorgan’s home ground in Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.

The new digital ticket system will include all general admission match tickets, hospitality events and member access.

With this deal, Glamorgan hope to enhance their fan base experience alongside increasing valuable insights into their customer base and allow for more personalised and engaging experiences for the Glamorgan fans.

Ed Rice, Commercial Director at Glamorgan Cricket said, “This partnership represents a significant step in modernising our ticketing operations and enhancing the matchday experience, while also supporting our sustainability efforts.”

Patrick Kirby, Managing Director of Tixserve added, “We look forward to contributing to Glamorgan’s mission of growing and securing the game for future generations.”

Croquet England has penned a three-year deal with Ambassador Cruise Line.

The deal sees Ambassador Cruise Line become the official cruise line partner of Croquet England until 2027 in a joint venture includes exclusive cruise offers for members of Croquet England, interactive fan engagement and brand exposure. Ambassador branding will also feature on the England team’s official kits for certain matches.

Gordan Nardini, Chief Marketing Officer at Ambassador Cruise Line said, “Here’s looking forward to welcoming all-comers on board for the ‘warmest welcome at sea’ in the months and years to come.”

Paul Hetherington, Marketing Director of Croquet England added, “Cruising is an attractive option for the croquet population, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure and camaraderie that complements the spirit of the sport.”

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