Shorts: Everton, Newco, Arsenal, Euros 2024
California-based security and networking company Aruba Networks has been named as an official supplier to the new Everton Stadium.
The multi-year agreement will see the Hewlett Packard Enterprise subsidiary install a ‘secure and intelligent networking infrastructure solution’ throughout the Premier League team’s new 52,888-capacity home ground.
Currently under construction on Bramley-Moore Dock in Liverpool, the new stadium is planned to open ahead of the 2025/26 football season.
Mark Weeks, director of UK & Ireland, HPE Aruba Networking, said, “We are proud to be joining the project to deliver a world-class venue and a world-class home for Everton.
“At HPE Aruba Networking, we know that technology is a key element to every fan experience, from the point when they enter the stadium, at times when they want to share their excitement with loved ones outside of the stadium, at half-time, when leveraging local services like restaurants and bars, and even after the match has ended.
“HPE Aruba Networking’s custom-designed and reliable network infrastructure enables Everton to stay connected with their fans throughout their matchday experience and beyond, helping the club create a modern, interactive matchday experience.”
Chelsea Women’s commercial director Zarah Al-Kudcy will join the leadership team of football’s NewCo this summer, according to The Guardian.
NewCo is the working name of the independent body formed in November 2023 which, starting with the 2024/25 football season, will take over from the Football Association in running professional women’s football in England.
According to The Guardian report, Al-Kudcy’s appointment to the role of Chief Revenue Officer follows an extensive recruitment process.
Prior to her role at Chelsea, Al-Kudcy previously served as Head of Commercial Partnerships at Formula One and has also held senior marketing roles at both the ECB and England Rugby 2015.
NewCo has also been recruiting for a Chief Football Officer and a Head of Communications, however, no appointments have been announced.
Arsenal Football Club has announced that Omar Mohammed Shaikh has been promoted to a new role of Global Partnerships & Ventures Director
Regarding the new role, Shaikh, who joined the Premier League club from rivals Liverpool in September 2023, said, “I’ve been at the Gunners for almost a year, and the progress we have made even in that time has been incredible. We all want to build on this and move forward, generating even more opportunities together with our partners and supporters. I can’t wait to continue this journey in my new role, supported by our world-class team here.”
15 million people tuned in to watch England’s win over Serbia in the team’s opening Euro 2024 match, according to The BBC.
That figure represents more than half of the nation’s television views on that evening.
England’s next game, against Denmark, will be shown on BBC One at 5pm on Thursday, 20th June.
Essex Cricket has revealed a new partnership with First Bus East of England.
As per the agreement, First Bus will feature prominently across Essex Cricket, including a new pitch-side advertising board which will highlight the £2 single fare now available in Essex.
Daryl Townson, Commercial Manager at Essex Cricket, said, “Partnering with one of the country’s best-loved transport operators is a really exciting time for the club.
“One element of our partnership will be the branded Essex Cricket bus that fans will be able to catch around Chelmsford in the very near future.
“As a club, we take sustainability very seriously and we are excited that First Bus are offering our fans free travel to our fixture on Thursday 20th June, which is also Clean Air Day. We want to encourage those visiting our ground to leave the car at home and use the bus instead.”
EFL League One club Stevenage FC has extended its partnership HG Construction as its back-of-shirt sponsor.
HG Construction has partnered with Stevenage FC since 2022/23 season and has sponsored numerous matches in the previous years.
Chris Benham, Executive Chairman and Founder of HG Construction (Holdings) Limited, said, “We have a long-standing relationship with Stevenage FC, and it has been a pleasure to see the club grow and expand just as HG Construction has undergone significant growth and transformation.
“We are proud to support such a hardworking and committed team, and it really is very exciting for us to be a key sponsor and see the HG logo in a prominent position on both the men’s and women’s shirts. Supporting local sports is a vital part of our community engagement programme and we look forward to continuing our partnership with Stevenage FC into the future”.
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