USA Women’s Rugby Steals Bronze Medal in Walk-Off Stunner

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By

Sean Tessler

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August 1, 2024

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GettyImages-2164466127-copy — Photo Cred: USA Today

U.S. Women’s Rugby Team Makes History with Dramatic Bronze Medal Win

Photo Cred: AP Photo/ Vadim Ghira

On Tuesday, the U.S. Women’s Rugby team achieved a historic milestone by securing the bronze medal in a thrilling match against Australia. The game, which was tied 7-7 with just 1:26 remaining, saw the Australian sister duo of Teagen Levi and Maddison Levi combine efforts to score a go-ahead try. However, Maddison Levi missed the subsequent conversion attempt, which ultimately became the turning point of the match.

With approximately 30 seconds left on the clock and the U.S. trailing 12-7, the American team was 90 yards away from the end zone, while Australia was poised to clinch victory with possession. But Alex “Spiff” Sedrick had other plans. After receiving a pass from Ariana Ramsey, Sedrick evaded a defender and powered through another, sprinting for 11 seconds to score a game-tying try as time expired. The game was not yet settled, though, as the U.S. needed a successful conversion to avoid overtime. Sedrick confidently nailed the kick right down the middle, securing her place in U.S. Olympic history and ensuring her team a spot on the podium.

Emotional Victory:

The day had begun with the U.S. Women’s Rugby team harboring dreams of gold. However, those aspirations were dashed by a decisive 24-12 loss to New Zealand, the eventual gold medalists. With only a few hours to regroup, Team USA focused on their final chance to earn an Olympic medal. The emotional victory was palpable, with many players hugging and crying tears of joy. The sentiment extended beyond the field, touching fans and announcers alike. This medal represented the culmination of years of rigorous training and preparation.

“I did this for my family because they knew what I went through last Olympics and how devastated I was after losing in the Quarterfinals,” said U.S. star player Ilona Maher. Another key factor in the team’s resilience was their core belief system. “Our values as a team are courage, selflessness, resilience, work ethic, and love,” said Alev Kelter. These principles, along with their relentless effort, played a crucial role in their historic achievement.

History-Making Medal:

Photo Cred:

The U.S. has long been a dominant force in the Summer Olympics, leading all nations in gold and total medals since the 1996 Atlanta Games. However, their success in Rugby has lagged behind. The dramatic win against Australia ended a century-long medal drought for American Rugby. The last time an American team won an Olympic Rugby medal was in 1924, when the U.S. men’s team claimed gold in Rugby Union.

This historic victory not only marks a significant achievement for the U.S. team but also brings Rugby into the American spotlight. The bronze medalists hope their success will inspire young girls to take up the sport. “If you’re playing soccer, basketball, or running track and think, ‘Hmm… I might be a little too aggressive for this sport,’ then come and give Rugby a try,” said Sammy Sullivan. The U.S. Women’s Rugby team’s victory could signal the beginning of a new era, positioning America as a rising force in the global Rugby arena.

Sony and National Football League Launch New Technology Partnership

By

Stephen Patrick

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July 31, 2024

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Sony Electronics Inc — Sony as a technology partner of the NFL

Broad-ranging partnership includes expansion of Sony’s Hawk-Eye Innovations’ sports technology, Sony as the official headphones of the NFL and more

New York and San Diego – July 31, 2024 – The National Football League and Sony announced today a partnership naming Sony as an official technology partner of the NFL, as well as the new official headphones of the NFL.

Through this partnership, Sony and the NFL will be working collaboratively with coaches, players, teams and leadership across the organization to transform the future of football. This includes an expansion of Sony’s sports technology through Hawk-Eye Innovations to support officiating and the development of on-field and sideline technologies, including a new coach’s sideline headset that will debut in the 2025 season.

The NFL and Sony will work closely to develop this new headset supporting coach-to-coach communication on the field. These will be powered by Verizon Business’ Managed Private Wireless Solution running on Verizon’s reliable 5G network.

Sony’s Hawk-Eye tracking services will be utilized to further enhance the accuracy of game-critical items like line-to-gain measurement. Additionally, Sony’s Beyond Sports and its expertise in real-time visualization provides an opportunity to help engage the next generation of NFL fans.

“Building upon a long-established relationship, the NFL looks forward to embracing prominent industry leader, Sony, as an official technology partner,” said Gary Brantley, chief information officer at the NFL. “Advancing technology on and off the field is a top priority for the NFL, and this partnership will fortify Sony’s role in the NFL’s ever-growing technology ecosystem, elevating various dimensions of our sport and bringing fans closer to game-day action. From broadening Sony’s Hawk-Eye technology within the game to utilizing Sony’s suite of advanced imaging products, to the deployment of new coaches’ headsets in 2025, the NFL will harness Sony’s expertise to drive innovation and further solidify the league’s status as a premier sports organization.”

The new partnership is the latest example of Sony’s deep integration throughout NFL games, ranging from sideline photography to broadcast cameras and production, to technology that supports officiating, enhancements for in-stadium fan experiences and more.

“We are committed to creating the future of sports with technology, and constantly driving innovation to positively impact the world of athletics for players, coaches and fans alike,” said Neal Manowitz, president and COO of Sony Electronics North America. “From best-in-class professional photography and the broadcast capture of the game to some of the world’s most advanced line-to-gain optical tracking, to upgraded in-stadium experiences and more, we remain focused on this commitment. This partnership stems from years of integration into the NFL across these many different areas, and we are excited to officially join forces and pursue our passions together with one of the largest sports organizations in the world.”

Sony’s extensive technology solutions capture some of the most memorable moments of the NFL, bringing fans the excitement and unpredictability of the game with world-class precision. Within the game itself, Hawk-Eye’s technology has supported the NFL Officiating Department to review and make critical rulings on plays. For the coming seasons, Hawk-Eye and the NFL will collaborate in the development of a next-generation officiating technology leveraging Hawk-Eye’s state-of-art line-to-gain optical tracking technology to review and make critical ruling on plays, helping to achieve the highest level of integrity for the game. Additionally, the technology and data captured by Hawk-Eye paired with player tracking data from the NFL’s Next Gen Stats powered by AWS and Sony’s Beyond Sports’ visualization technology will create new avenues for real-time content creation like ESPN, Disney and the NFL’s Emmy-award winning “Toy Story Funday Football” alternate game presentation during the 2023 season, which brought a younger and more global audience to the game and is the biggest live event to date on Disney+.

Since 2020, Sony has been the exclusive imaging products and support provider for The Associated Press, a trusted global news organization and the definitive source for NFL imagery. Sony’s imaging ecosystem has been AP’s exclusive camera choice for all NFL coverage, producing many incredible images of the league’s most defining moments over the course of the last four years.

Sony cameras have also been used by NFL broadcast partners including CBS Sports, ESPN, FOX Sports and NBC Sports for decades, including coverage of the league’s biggest games and the Super Bowl.

Sony products and technologies are also used extensively in many NFL stadiums across the country, with opportunities to expand further as teams and organizations continue to evolve their in-game experiences for fans. Additionally, the new NFL Network studios in Inglewood, California have recently shifted many of their key operations and cameras over to Sony technology. These studios are used as the primary production location for many NFL Network shows including “Good Morning Football,” as well as “NFL GameDay Morning” and “The Insiders.” Sony Pictures Television handles U.S. distribution for “GMFB: Overtime,” a new extension of NFL Network’s Emmy Award-winning “Good Morning Football,” currently streaming on The Roku Channel Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. – noon ET and airing in syndication on local TV stations beginning Sept. 2.

With this new partnership, the NFL and Sony will continue to work together to create new opportunities within football through the power of technology and remain committed to evolving the game to maximize engagement and enjoyment for fans, coaches and players alike.

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Media Contacts: Mara Redican, mara.redican@sony.com, Liana Bailey, liana.bailey@nfl.com

About Sony Corporation

Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the mission to “create the future of entertainment through the power of technology together with creators,” we aim to continue to deliver Kando* to people around the world.

For more information, visit: http://www.sony.net/

*Kando is a Japanese word that roughly translates to the sense of awe and emotion you feel when experiencing something beautiful and amazing for the first time.

About Sony Electronics Inc.

Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment. Visit http://www.sony.com/news for more information.

About Hawk-Eye Innovations

Hawk-Eye Innovations has been at the forefront of sports officiating and broadcast enhancement technology since 2001. The world’s biggest sporting events trust Hawk-Eye to make the right call, when it matters most. Hawk-Eye’s vision-processing, video replay and creative graphic technologies make sport fairer, safer, more engaging and better informed. Our innovations are constantly changing the face of sports officiating, production, content management, fan engagement in every sport.

Hawk-Eye Innovations, a Sony Group company, has the mission to unlock the power and emotion of sport. We focus on delivering best-in-class officiating, broadcast and digital solutions to the sports world.

Website: https://www.hawkeyeinnovations.com/

Follow Hawk-Eye on Twitter: www.twitter.com/hawkeye_view

Follow Hawk-Eye on Instagram: www.instagram.com/hawkeyeinnovations

About Beyond Sports

Beyond Sports is an AI-based data analysis and visualization company that offers a new way of experiencing sports. Our Emmy Award winning visualization platform enables real-time digital sports engagement solutions for leagues, broadcasters, brands and ultimately the consumers. We deliver never before seen sports content spreading from traditional media all the way to the Metaverse. Beyond Sports is one of Sony’s sports businesses aimed at innovating the industry through data and content.

Website: https://www.beyondsports.nl/ ⎸ Instagram: @beyondsports ⎸ TikTok: @lifeofblocky

For more from NFL Communications, visit NFLCommunications.com and follow @NFL345.

Simone Biles: The Unmatched GOAT of Gymnastics?

By

Stephen Patrick

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July 31, 2024

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Simone Biles stands as one of the most extraordinary Olympians of all time. She’s titan in gymnastics and her impact extends beyond the sport. Her skills are characterized by a breathtaking skill set and collection of medals. With a remarkable total of eight Olympic medals to her name she has six golds from the 2019 World Championships. She has 30 World Championship medals, she is the most decorated gymnast in history. She is the fifth-most decorated female Olympic gymnast, and has the most Olympic medals earned by a U.S. gymnast.

Photo Cred: Paris 2024

Some have dubbed her the GOAT in gymnastics. Biles’s reputation is built on her consistent performances and remarkable longevity. Her feats include performing moves that no other gymnast have thought of, such as the Yurchenko double pike and the Biles which is a floor exercise move named after her. Each of these innovations has set new standards for what is possible in gymnastics. As of now, Biles’s has eight total Olympic medals, which include five golds, one silver, and two bronze. This includes the 2024 team medal. Biles’s achievements make her part of an exclusive group of gymnasts who have amassed eight or more medals.

She’s half way to breaking the all time gymnast women’s record and is only 27. Biles is slated to compete in four more events. She could have double digits by the end of the Paris games. If she performs at her best, she could potentially rise to the second position on the all-time list for women’s Olympic gymnastics medals.

Olympic 2024: Simone Biles makes spectacular return in Paris | RNZ News

Photo Cred: RNZ

Currently she’s in a select group of women who have achieved multiple Olympic medals on the balance beam, alongside Shannon Miller and others. Biles has the potential to become the first gymnast to win three Olympic medals on the balance beam. Her continued dominance and groundbreaking achievements serve as a testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication, solidifying her place in the annals of gymnastics history. After the Paris Olympic can she solidify her safe as the GOAT?

The 2020 Quarterback Draft Class Explodes the QB Market

By

Stephen Patrick

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July 29, 2024

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Is the NFL QB market getting out of hand or is the class of 2020 just that good? The top quarterbacks from the 2020 NFL Draft class have secured eye opening extensions in less than 16 months. Five QBs have collectively surpassed $1.2 billion in salary. The latest deals included Tua Tagovailoa and Jordan Love joining the ranks of high-paid quarterbacks. Joe Burrow, Jalen Hurts, Justin Herbert, Love, and Tagovalioa have a combined 139- 97-1 regular season record. Hurts and Burrow each have made it to the playoffs. Tagovalioa has led the Dolphins to back playoff appearances, Love won beat the Cowboys in his playoff debut, while Herbert lost his only appearance.

FirstSportz NFL on X: "2020 QB draft class has a projected earning of $861 million with 2 Super Bowl appearances... The best QB class in the NFL? Joe Burrow Tua Tagovailoa Justin

Photo Cred: First Sportz

Joe Burrow, the No. 1 overall pick was the first to sign a big contract with a historic five-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. His deal was worth $275 million with a $40 million signing bonus. It became the richest contract for a quarterback at that time. Shortly the Los Angeles Chargers extended a five-year, $262.5 million contract to Justin Herbert. He was the No. 6 pick. Of all the quarterbacks he has the least success with a 30-32 record and playoff lost in one appearance. It begs the question are quarterbacks being overvalued based on the position or are they really that good?

Jalen Hurts was selected 53rd overall in the second round, he was the first of the elite 2020 group to receive a major extension. The Philadelphia Eagles rewarded Hurts with a five-year, $255 million contract after he led the team to a Super Bowl appearance. After a down year some were worried the Eagles jumped the gun on paying Hurts a big contract.

The recent extensions for Tagovailoa and Love cap off a series of high-profile contracts that highlight the significant investments teams are making in their young quarterbacks. Tagovailoa to new 4-year, $212M contract extension. In 2022, he became the youngest NFL quarterback to lead the league in passer rating (105.5) since Dan Marino in 1984. Green Bay is signing Love to a four-year, $220 million contract extension that puts him in a tie for the highest-paid player in NFL history.

Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes reacts to massive Jordan Love, Tua Tagovailoa contracts

Photo Cred: Clutch Points

History has shown us that QBs make that make a little less tend to win championships. Only three of the top 10 paid QBs have made the Super Bowl. Patrick Mahomes makes $45 million a year. Mahomes is ranked 11th. It shows how the QB market has skyrocked in just a few years.

Brock Purdy: The 49ers’ Game-Changer and Future MVP

By

Iliyan Lakhani

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July 29, 2024

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In every NFL draft, franchises meticulously scout for prospective stars capable of transforming their fortunes on the field. As each round progresses, the pool of available talent shrinks. The likelihood of finding a diamond in the rough diminishes. It’s a high-stakes game where teams invest millions into players who might never secure a second contract in the league. However, the San Francisco 49ers bucked this trend in 2022, discovering Brock Purdy with the draft’s final pick.

Photo Cred: NBC Sports

Today, he stands as the linchpin quarterback for one of the NFC‘s most formidable teams. Purdy’s path to NFL stardom has become a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes worldwide. While luck played a part, his journey from a three-star recruit to NFL starter underscores his undeniable talent. Initially slated behind Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo on the depth chart in 2022, Purdy’s fortunes changed dramatically when fate intervened with injuries to both quarterbacks.

His debut as a starter saw him seize the opportunity with 25 completions, 210 passing yards, and two touchdowns. It ignited the 49ers to a resounding 16-point victory over Miami. From there, Purdy’s momentum only grew, culminating in five consecutive wins that propelled San Francisco into the playoffs. Despite a heartbreaking loss in the conference championship against the Eagles, Purdy’s impact was undeniable. He clinched a remarkable third-place finish in the Offensive Rookie of the Year race—an extraordinary achievement for the draft’s final selection.

Photo Cred: CNN

In the subsequent season, Purdy’s prowess as a former Iowa State standout shone brightly. Across 16 games as the starting quarterback, he amassed 4,424 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, leading the league in touchdown percentage, passer rating, and quarterback rating. His stellar performance, coupled with the 49ers’ impressive 12-win campaign, thrust him into the MVP conversation and sparked debates about his potential as an all-pro player.

Though narrowly missing out on these coveted titles, Purdy’s determination remains steadfast, embodying resilience and a relentless drive to succeed. Bolstered by the 49ers’ elite roster, Purdy is now poised to challenge for the NFL’s most valuable player award. With an unwavering commitment to strategic preparation and a leadership role in the locker room, he possesses the potential to elevate his team to unprecedented heights.

Purdy’s capabilities position him to have an outstanding season. As he continues to hone his skills and lead the charge for San Francisco, Brock Purdy stands on the precipice of defining himself as one of the league’s premier quarterbacks in contemporary football lore. Is this the year that the 49ers finally win a Super Bowl?

Who will win the Rookie of the Year Race Between Clark and Reese?

By

Iliyan Lakhani

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July 27, 2024

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Over the past decade, the WNBA has seen its fair share of basketball icons, from Sue Bird to Diana Taurasi, captivating fans with their skills. Now, a new era of talent is emerging. It’s led by two rising superstars: Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. These young players have made significant impacts in the NCAA and have continued to shine since being drafted in the first round, sparking a thrilling debate over the Rookie of the Year title as the season progresses.

Caitlin Clark, known for her scoring prowess at Iowa, entered the WNBA with high expectations. She’s a versatile player who can score at all three levels. Clark has showcased her talent in her rookie season. Through 26 games, she’s averaged an impressive 17.1 points, 8.2 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game. Her achievements include setting a single-game assist record and earning an All-Star selection—a remarkable feat for a rookie.

Photo Cred: CNN

Meanwhile, Angel Reese has been a dominant presence in the paint for the Chicago Sky. Like Clark, Reese has made her mark with strong performances and record-breaking achievements. In 24 games, the former LSU standout has averaged 13.5 points and an impressive 11.9 rebounds per game. Her standout performance against the Fever in late June, where she scored 25 points and grabbed 16 rebounds in a crucial victory, highlighted her impact on both ends of the court.

Despite Reese’s formidable campaign, Caitlin Clark is poised to secure the 2024 Rookie of the Year award. Clark has been a standout performer for the Indiana Fever, leading her team with exceptional playmaking and scoring ability. Her ability to create space and score effortlessly has made her a nightmare for opposing defenses. It has solidified her status as a generational talent in women’s sports. However, Clark’s potential accolade should not overshadow Reese’s impressive season with the Chicago Sky.

Photo Cred: Fox News

Reese has been instrumental in her team’s push for a playoff spot, demonstrating her potential as a future franchise cornerstone. Her development into a key player for Chicago underscores her promise as a leader and contributor to future championship aspirations. As both Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese continue to excel in their rookie seasons, they represent the future of women’s basketball at its highest level. Their talents and contributions on the court ensure that fans can look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success in the WNBA for years to come.

Mariners Trade for Rays OF Randy Arozarena in Major Deal

By

Sean Tessler

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July 27, 2024

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MLB: Los Angeles Angels at Tampa Bay Rays — Sep 19, 2023; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays left fielder Randy Arozarena (56) celebrates after hitting a home run against the Los Angeles Angels during the first inning at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

The Seattle Mariners and Tampa Bay Rays recently finalized a significant deal, sending outfielder Randy Arozarena to Seattle. In return, the Rays will receive two promising minor league prospects: 22-year-old pitcher Brody Hopkins and 20-year-old outfielder Aidan Smith. The addition of Arozarena comes at a critical time for the Mariners, who are currently grappling with offensive challenges that have undermined their season.

Photo Cred: Drays Bay

With a starting rotation batting average of just .216—the lowest in the league—the Mariners have struggled to maintain their early-season momentum, surrendering a ten-game division lead they held in June. Presently, the team holds a 53-51 record, trailing the Astros by just one game for the top spot in the division. Despite a relatively modest .211 batting average this season, Arozarena has shown flashes of brilliance in recent months.

Notably, he boasted a .291 batting average in June and has continued to perform strongly with a .288 average in July. His addition promises to inject much-needed offensive firepower into the Mariners’ lineup, potentially making him one of the team’s most impactful hitters. Arozarena’s 15 home runs this season already rank him second on the Mariners, behind only Cal Raleigh who has hit 20 home runs.

Photo Cred: The Seattle Teams

While Arozarena’s current season statistics represent a downturn from his stellar AL Rookie of the Year campaign in 2021, where he posted a .274 batting average, 20 home runs, and an OPS of .815, the Mariners remain optimistic about his ability to replicate and even surpass these numbers. The acquisition of Arozarena comes amidst other roster adjustments for the Mariners, including designating Ty France for assignment and placing J.P. Crawford and Julio Rodriguez on the injured list. As the July 30th trade deadline approaches, speculation remains about whether Seattle will make further moves to strengthen their roster.

Nevertheless, the Mariners are banking on Arozarena’s potential to bolster their offensive output and propel them back to the top of the competitive AL West division. The addition of Randy Arozarena represents a strategic move by the Mariners to fortify their lineup and address pressing offensive deficiencies. With his proven ability to impact games with both his bat and speed, Arozarena holds the key to Seattle’s aspirations of securing a postseason berth and competing at the highest levels of Major League Baseball.

League Initiative Helps Recognize Trailblazing Latino Youth Football Players Across NFL Club Markets

By

Stephen Patrick

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July 27, 2024

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League Initiative Helps Recognize Trailblazing Latino Youth Football Players Across NFL Club Markets

NEW YORK — July 24, 2024 — The National Football League and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) along with Procter & Gamble are proud to announce the second annual ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ recognizing outstanding high school tackle and flag football athletes from around the country for their academic and athletic excellence. Procter & Gamble will serve as presenting sponsor of the Latino Youth Honors.

The NFL and the HHF have highlighted impactful Latinos for many years, but this program is fully focused on honoring outstanding Latino youth football players. This initiative celebrates high school seniors across NFL club markets who excel in the classroom and on the football field. Thanks to Procter & Gamble’s commitment to the program, eight high school seniors will each receive a grant award that can be used for college, including $25,000 grants for both the male and female national winners and $5,000 grants for each of the six other finalists.

“The NFL and Hispanic Heritage Foundation have a rich history of celebrating excellence within Latino communities and the ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ program is the perfect way to commemorate Latino students and their inspiring stories, as well as motivate future fans and athletes of this great sport,” said Marissa Solis, NFL senior vice president of global brand & consumer marketing. “The program was a huge success in its inaugural season a year ago and with Procter & Gamble’s participation, we will elevate the ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ to new heights.”

All 32 NFL teams are invited to select a male and female high school senior football player to represent their team and submit these exemplary student-athletes to be considered for this year’s program. The selection criteria for the “NFL Latino Youth Honors” program includes:

Being a Latino/Hispanic high school senior
A flag or tackle football player
Based in or near the 32 NFL team markets
Be in good academic standing (minimum GPA 3.0)
Must demonstrate commitment to his/her community
Verifiable football stats (season and career), with designation of tackle or flag

This selection process will bring forth 64 remarkable student-athletes who will be nominated for the 2024 NFL Latino Youth Honors. Once the NFL and HHF receive all nominations, a panel will convene to choose eight outstanding finalists — each representing one of the NFL’s eight divisions.

“Procter & Gamble has a long history of collaborating with the NFL to create programs that enhance our ability to reach and serve more consumers and enrich communities,” said Janet Fletcher, senior director of sports marketing at P&G. “We are proud to be this year’s presenting sponsor of the Latino Youth Awards and, together with the NFL and HHF, celebrate the outstanding achievements of Latino youth football players in the classroom, on the field of play, and in their communities.”

The eight finalists will each receive a grant award that can be used for college and are set to participate in a variety of special events taking place in New Orleans during Super Bowl LIX Week. Activities will be designed to provide mentorship, guidance and resources to pursue careers in professional sports and all eight finalists will attend the Super Bowl. During that week, a male and female national winner will be announced at NFL Honors, with the recipients receiving an invitation to HHF’s National Youth Awards ceremony later in 2025.

“Our partnership with the NFL has always focused on highlighting impactful Latinos and the ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ program does exactly that, celebrating the many talents and achievements of young Latinos who are outstanding student-athletes on the field and in the classroom, as well as leaders in their community,” said Jose Antonio Tijerino, President and CEO of HHF. “We look forward to another year of honoring these inspiring Latinos from the league’s 32 club markets while motivating the next generation of Latino talent to aspire for a brighter future.”

About Procter & Gamble
P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Always®, Ambi Pur®, Ariel®, Bounty®, Charmin®, Crest®, Dawn®, Downy®, Fairy®, Febreze®, Gain®, Gillette®, Head & Shoulders®, Lenor®, Olay®, Oral-B®, Pampers®, Pantene®, SK-II®, Tide®, Vicks®, and Whisper®. The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide. Please visit https://www.pg.com for the latest news and information about P&G and its brands. For other P&G news, visit us at https://www.pg.com/news.

About the Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF)
HHF is a national nonprofit organization focused on education, workforce, social innovation and culture through the lens of leadership. For more information, visit www.hispanicheritage.org and follow the Hispanic Heritage Foundation on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok. Listen to the HHF podcast Fritanga on your favorite streaming service and HHF YouTube channel.

Media Contacts
David Villavicencio for NFL, dvillavicencio@chemistryagency.com
Sammi Liang, sammi.liang@nfl.com

Top Sports to Watch at the 2024 Olympics

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By

Arnav Sarkar

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July 26, 2024

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The Paris 2024 Olympics are eagerly anticipated, poised to ignite the world with a celebration of unity, national pride, and an extraordinary display of both traditional and innovative sports. This year’s Summer Games promise to captivate audiences worldwide with a thrilling array of events that showcase the pinnacle of athletic achievement and human potential.

Swimming: Swimming stands as a cornerstone of the Olympics, offering electrifying sprints, endurance tests, and gripping relay races. The United States, renowned for its prowess in the pool, fields a star-studded lineup including the likes of Katie Ledecky, Caeleb Dressel, Lilly King, and Regan Smith. Look for the USA team to make waves and win many medals while enjoying the thrill of the sport at its highest level this summer, with swimming dominating the first week of primetime coverage.

Photo Cred: Paris 2024 Olympics

Track & Field: Track and field encompasses a vast spectrum of disciplines, from lightning-fast sprints to technical field events like javelin and pole vaulting. American athletes such as Noah Lyles, Sha’Carri Richardson, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, and Tara Davis-Woodhall headline a formidable roster prepared to shine on the global stage. The second week of competition promises to showcase their remarkable displays of speed, strength, and agility, captivating audiences worldwide. Look for the U.S. to win many medals in one of the game’s biggest sports, with track and field set to dominate the primetime slate in the second week of the games.

Photo Cred: EssentiallySports

Diving: One of the most impressive sports in the Olympics is diving. Diving captivates with its blend of aerial acrobatics and precision. Events like the 3m springboard and 10m platform, along with synchronized competitions, guarantee moments of high drama as athletes execute complex dives under the watchful eyes of judges, promising a breathtaking spectacle for spectators. Divers are judged on a scale of 1-10 by multiple judges on the degree of difficulty and artistic elements of their dives, with the highest scores winning in the end.

Photo Cred: Reuters

Water Polo: Water polo demands athleticism, strategy, and endurance, with the U.S. women’s team eyeing an unprecedented fourth consecutive Olympic gold. The competition will feature intense matches as teams vie for supremacy in the pool, delivering thrilling moments throughout the Games. The women’s team is coming off three consecutive gold medals and is looking to win their fourth consecutive Olympic gold in Paris.

Photo Cred: WGCU

Basketball: Basketball at the Olympics transcends national leagues, showcasing global talent and fierce competition. The U.S. men’s team features superstars including LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Anthony Davis, while the women’s team boasts WNBA luminaries like A’ja Wilson and Diana Taurasi. Anticipate high-stakes games and the fast-paced excitement of 3×3 basketball captivating audiences worldwide. The 3×3 men tournaments should be intriguing as well, with former college stars Jimmer Fredette and Canyon Barry highlighting the men’s team while WNBA players Rhyne Howard and Dearica Hamby join college star Hailey Van Lith and veteran Cierra Burdick as the women’s 3×3 team looks to defend their gold medal in Tokyo.

Photo Cred: USA Basketball

Gymnastics: Gymnastics mesmerizes with its astonishing displays of athleticism through captivating floor routines, vaults, bars, and balance beam performances. The U.S. women’s gymnastic teams have been among the top in the world, winning gold in 2012 and 2016 before a silver in the 2021 Games in Tokyo. Led by the legendary Simone Biles, the U.S. women’s team promises to dazzle with their unparalleled skill and artistry, continuing their legacy of dominance on the global stage. Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey, Hezley Rivera, and Sunisa Lee makes this team another fearsome five.

Photo Cred: The New York Times

Rugby Sevens: Rugby Sevens delivers rapid-fire action with modified rules emphasizing speed, agility, and strategic play. Both the U.S. men’s and women’s teams are set to fiercely compete against formidable international opponents, ensuring exhilarating matches that highlight the sport’s dynamic intensity. The format is shortened to two seven-minute halves, and the team with the highest score at the end wins. The United States qualified both their men’s and women’s teams and will go against some of the best sides in the world as they chase Olympic medals in each.

Photo Cred: Team USA

Surfing, Skateboarding, Breakdancing: Surfing will be held in Tahiti, far from Paris, at the famed Teahupo’o spot known for its awe-inspiring yet daunting waves. American favorites Carissa Moore and Caroline Marks are top contenders in the women’s competition, while Hawaii’s John John Florence aims to add Olympic gold to his impressive record, which includes two world championships. Skateboarding, a hit in Tokyo, returns with American star Nyjah Huston and British sensation Sky Brown set to shine in Paris. Breakdancing, the newest Olympic addition, known as breaking, will feature one-on-one battles judged on technique, creativity, execution, musicality, and originality. Originating in the Bronx and deeply rooted in hip-hop culture, the U.S. team of Jeffrey Louis, Logan Edra, Sunny Choi, and Victor Montalvo seeks medals while inspiring future generations in this dynamic sport.

Photo Cred: CNN

The Paris 2024 Olympics promise unforgettable moments, the emergence of new champions, and unparalleled displays of athleticism across a diverse range of sports. Whether you’re drawn to the grace of diving, the intensity of track and field, or the skill of gymnastics and basketball, these Games are set to deliver exhilarating experiences. Stay tuned for updates and highlights as athletes from around the globe vie for Olympic glory on the grand stage in Paris.

2024 NFL Fan of the Year Contest Presented by Captain Morgan Opens Saturday, July 27

By

Stephen Patrick

-

July 25, 2024

0

Contest Celebrates Local and International Fans Who Inspire with Their Love of Football

NEW YORK — July 25, 2024 — The NFL Fan of the Year presented by Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum will launch on Saturday, July 27 in concurrence with Training Camp: Back Together Weekend presented by YouTube TV. Returning for the fourth year, the annual contest celebrates extraordinary fans who spice up the game through their love of football and have been a positive influence and rallying force across their family, friends and community.

Beginning Saturday, July 27, fans can nominate themselves or another deserving fan for consideration to become their team’s Fan of the Year at nfl.com/fanoftheyear.

“We’re thrilled to highlight our amazing fans through the NFL Fan of the Year contest presented by Captain Morgan, as we celebrate those who serve as an inspiration to others through their fandom,” said Bobby Gallo, NFL senior vice president of club business development. “Our fans consistently elevate the sport with their energy and passion, demonstrating unwavering support for their favorite team, and the international component, which will open in the coming weeks, underscores the universal power of football fandom locally and internationally.

Each team will select a Fan of the Year to represent their Club at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans on February 9, 2025. The Ultimate Fan of the Year will be named at NFL Honors, the NFL’s primetime award special, which will take place during Super Bowl week in New Orleans.

“Every NFL season, we can’t wait to meet the next class of die-hard fans from across the country. Win or lose, rain or shine, they show up ready for a new adventure,” said Anne Nosko, Captain Morgan vice president. “This spirit of fandom inspired the NFL Fan of the Year contest, which has grown into a community of amazing individuals who deserve to be celebrated. As Captain Morgan kicks off its fourth year as the Official Spiced Rum of the NFL, we’re thrilled to continue spotlighting these fans and spicing up their incredible fandom journey.”

Throughout the regular season, all 32 Fan of the Year nominees will receive a series of prizes and take part in exclusive experiences unlocking an adventure of a lifetime.

The submission window for the U.S. contest will open Saturday and remain open through 11:59 PM ET on September 30. Fans must be 21 or older to enter.

The international component of Fan of the Year, which started last season, will continue as part of this year’s contest. Fans abroad will be recognized in a separate NFL International campaign. This international campaign will launch in the fall, and more information will be available in the coming weeks.

Fans can visit nfl.com/fanoftheyear as well as their team’s website and social handles for more information.

For more from NFL Communications, visit NFLCommunications.com and follow @NFL345.

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