Shorts: DP World Tour, RFU, Blackpool

The DP World Tour has revealed Clere Golf as its official supplier until the end of 2026.

The digital communications and graphics company, which specialises in tailored solutions for the golf industry, will become the tour’s official yardage book supplier.

The European golf circuit will also use the ClereGolfHub surveying and geo-spatial mapping solution as a part of tournament planning and preparation.

“With the ClereGolfHub, the Tour has an online portal to manage every aspect of a tournament venue and share vital set-up information with staff, contractors, venues and partners,” said David Garland, Director of Tour Operations at the DP World Tour.

“The data available is extremely rich in insight and enables the business to make informed decision making. Our players will also benefit from an enhanced yardage book product and service which will help them plot their strategy whilst playing.”

Clere Golf supports more than 2000 golf venues, and 160 professional golf tournaments.

The RFU has appointed Francesca Pierce as the national rugby union body’s Chief Financial Officer.

Pierce will join the organisation in early 2025 from SkyShowtime, a streaming platform owned by Sky/Comcast and Paramount, where she currently serves as Chief Strategy Officer.

Pierce previously held various leadership roles, including Chief Financial Officer, during a 15-year tenure at Sky.

In her new role, Pierce will oversee finance, technology, and people, while playing a key role in executing transformational initiatives, including the Men’s Professional Game Partnership, the Community Game Future programme, the organisation-wide digital transformation, investments in women’s and girls’ rugby, and the stadium masterplan.

She will also contribute to revenue plans for the Six Nations and Nations Cup, focusing on financial management, revenue growth, and cost efficiency.

“[Pierce] brings a wealth of commercial and financial experience and will be instrumental to us successfully delivering on our transformational, strategic growth projects which are being undertaken to ensure the RFU is not just keeping pace but leading the way and setting the stage for a new and exciting era for rugby in England,” said Bill Sweeney, CEO of the RFU.

“We look forward to welcoming her to the RFU early in the New Year.”

Blackpool have extended their partnership with Fuel Hub, which will remain as the League One club’s first team food supplier for the 2024/25 season.

The UK nutrition provider, which first partnered with the Seasiders in 2022, provides sports teams, athletes, and health-conscious individuals with high protein, ready-to-eat, calorie-controlled meals.

The company additionally sponsors Premier League clubs Chelsea, Watford, Fulham and Brentford.

Fuel Hub Directors James and Michelle Laithwaite said, “Fuel Hub have been powering The Seasiders with premium, macro-controlled meals for a number of seasons now, ensuring the players are fuelled both on and off the field. 

“We’re looking forward to fuelling the squad for the 2024/25 season.”

Sports marketing collective WeAreNinety has been appointed as the retained agency for British outdoor clothing manufacturer Craghoppers.

The London-based agency will be tasked with leading on sports marketing strategy and activation for Craghopper’s new golf range.

Charlotte Jackson, Head of Marketing at Craghoppers, said, “As we embark on this exciting journey into golf, we needed a partner with sports experience that understands not just our brand values but also how to resonate with today’s active, environmentally conscious consumer. We’re excited to be working with WeAreNinety who will help us define our strategy and bring our new golf range to market.”

Charlie Weir, Founder of WeAreNinety, added, “We are thrilled to be working with Craghoppers at such a pivotal moment in the brand’s evolution. Golf is a growing sport where marginal gains can make all the difference, and we believe Craghoppers’ new range will appeal to golfers who demand performance without compromising on sustainability. We are looking forward to bringing our sports marketing smarts to the outdoor & adventure clothing leaders.”

Bloomsbury Football has introduced a new girls’ strategy grassroots initiative, which will aim to empower 10,000 young girls through football by 2028.

In addition, the charity revealed its documentary, Show Up, which is set to debut early next year.

The film challenges stereotypes in girls’ football, encouraging more young girls to step onto the pitch. Featuring two years of footage and interviews with women’s football talent, it captures the progress following the Lionesses’ triumph at the UEFA Women’s Euro in 2022.

Bloomsbury Football has also detailed key strategies to help tackle some of the biggest  participation barriers. These include making period products available at all sessions, promoting sports bra education, and providing targeted coaching support on issues specific to girls. 

The organisation continues to work with 1,500 girls weekly in London, with female coaches leading its inclusive sessions.

Founded in 2018, Bloomsbury Football remains dedicated to fostering a supportive and accessible environment in its Girls Programmes, ensuring all girls feel encouraged to participate, regardless of ability.

“The launch of the Girls’ Strategy was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate all we’ve accomplished in making football more accessible for young girls, while also looking ahead and setting ambitious goals for the future,” said Charlie Hyman, Founder and CEO of Bloomsbury Football.

The evening was filled with valuable insights and meaningful discussions, fostering a real sense of belief that, together, we can enhance the football experience for young girls and ensure Bloomsbury Football continues to lead the way in breaking down participation barriers.”

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