Industry Press Room - Athletic Business

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

PlayCore Acquires Dero

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Colorado Time Systems

Chattanooga, TN -- September 25, 2012-- PlayCore Holdings, Inc. (PlayCore), a leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of a broad range of play and recreation products, and a portfolio company of Irving Place Capital, today announced the acquisition of DERO Bike Rack Co. (“Dero”).

Dero is a designer, manufacturer, and supplier of innovative bicycle parking and transit solutions, including bike racks, lockers, shelters, and custom bike storage products. Its innovative coating process allows custom designs and logos to be incorporated into the products’ finishes.

Dero will become a part of PlayCore’s EverActive Brands division. Day-to-day operations will continue from Dero’s office and manufacturing facility in Minneapolis, MN and will be supported by the EverActive Brands management team located in Mendota Heights, MN.

“We are excited about the addition of Dero to the family of PlayCore brands as well as the opportunity to increase our product offering with exciting and innovative bike storage solutions. The company aligns greatly with PlayCore’s mission and values based culture. This expansion of our commitment to the bike market is an important new opportunity for PlayCore and supports our mission of building communities through play,” said Bob Farnsworth, President and CEO of PlayCore.

Hans Steege of Dero added, “We are excited about the opportunity to reach new markets and expand our bike storage solutions offering to new customers.”

About PlayCore

PlayCore helps build stronger communities around the world by advancing play through research, education, and partnerships. The company infuses this learning into its complete family of brands. PlayCore combines best--in--class planning and education programs with the most comprehensive array of recreation products available to create play solutions that match the unique needs of each community they serve. Learn more at www.playcore.com.

About Dero

DERO Bike Rack Co. was one of the first to make functional but artistic bicycle parking racks. Since 1995, its founders believed they could build a successful bike parking business with high quality, functional, and secure products that were aesthetically attractive so that architects and planners would integrate them as a visible part of their designs. Dero’s pledge of unparalleled customer service and highly trained staff have allowed the company’s products to embrace a presence throughout the world. The company was recently named one of the top 10 places to work by Outside Magazine for its incorporation of fun and healthy initiatives into the workplace.

About Irving Place Capital

Irving Place Capital is a middle--market private equity firm that invests in compelling buyouts, recapitalizations, and growth capital opportunities. The firm focuses on making control or entrepreneur--driven investments in retail, consumer, Industrial, and healthcare companies where it can apply its substantial operating and strategic resources and expertise to enhance value. Since its formation in 1997, Irving Place Capital has been an investor in more than 55 companies and has raised over $4 billion of equity capital, including its current $2.7 billion institutional fund. More information about Irving Place Capital is available at www.irvingplacecapital.com.

Posted At 3:49 PM • Comments (0)

NATA Publishes Position Statement on Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use

Posted by AB Editors

Source: National Athletic Trainers' Association

DALLAS, September 20, 2012 – The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) today issued a position statement summarizing the best available evidence related to the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). According to the statement, improved understanding of AAS in the sports medicine and athletic communities is needed: AAS abuse can lead to a host of negative effects on the health and well-being of athletes and non-athletes alike. The position statement was created by the NATA Research & Education Foundation and appears in the September 2012 issue of the Journal of the Athletic Training, NATA’s scientific publication.

While most of the public and media attention concerning AAS has been focused on professional athletes, abuse of these powerful drugs is also a serious problem at the high school and collegiate levels of sport and among general fitness enthusiasts as well.

“Based on recent trend research, we project there are an estimated 750,000 high school AAS abusers in the U.S.,” said, Robert Kersey, PhD, ATC, CSCS, lead author of the position statement and director of the athletic training education program at California State University at Fullerton. “Worldwide, AAS abuse is estimated in the tens of millions.”

"It is vital that health care professionals, coaches, parents, administrators and the athletes themselves know the signs and symptoms of possible AAS abuse so they can educate others with the most current and accurate information,” added Kersey. “And, if athletes or others suspect AAS abuse they should bring it to the attention of the athletic trainer or other qualified health care professional.”

The statement reinforces that identification of the AAS abuser (or potential abuser) by a health care professional is critical to help prevent any negative consequences; and that proper direction, guidance, support and possible referral are essential in assisting those at risk.

According to NATA’s position statement, anabolic-androgenic steroids are powerful Schedule III pharmaceuticals that are related to naturally occurring human hormones. Although the therapeutic use of these synthetic, testosterone-based derivatives can provide specific, limited medical benefits, they are most frequently abused to gain athletic performance advantages, develop physiques and improve body image.

AAS misuse has been shown to lead to negative health effects on the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal system, immune system, skin, liver, kidneys and reproductive organs. Individuals who are abusing these drugs for athletic advantage or image often dangerously rely on questionable information and illegal drug sources, which increases the risk of serious medical consequences.

The signs and symptoms of AAS abuse include the following:
· Rapid body mass or performance increases
· Extreme muscular growth
· Abnormal, excessive or unexpected acne
· Unexplained hypertension
· Euphoria and irritability
· Moodiness
· Aggression
· Episodic depression
· Secretive actions
· Excessive exercise
· Increased obsession with physique and diet

“Well designed and properly implemented education appears to reduce abuse among some groups,” Kersey said. “Athletic trainers are often in a unique position to assess and assist AAS abusers and those who may become AAS abusers, and when necessary, they should call on other qualified health care professionals as referral resources.”

NATA’s position statement addresses AAS and does not include human growth hormone, insulin, or other frequently abused pharmaceuticals (including insulin growth factor 1 and selective androgen receptor modulators) or nutritionals (e.g. creatine, amino acids and protein powders). For a copy of the complete statement, visit http://www.nata.org/sites/default/files/position-statement-steroids.pdf.

About NATA
National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) – Health Care for Life & Sport Athletic trainers are health care professionals who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries and sport-related illnesses. They prevent and treat chronic musculoskeletal injuries from sports, physical and occupational activity, and provide immediate care for acute injuries. Athletic trainers offer a continuum of care that is unparalleled in health care. The National Athletic Trainers' Association represents and supports 35,000 members of the athletic training profession. Visit www.nata.org.

Posted At 2:39 PM • Comments (28)

NCAA Schools Select Brock PowerBase to Help Prevent Concussions on the Football Field

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Brock International

Boulder, Colorado - (September 25, 2012) – From the University of Oregon to Boston College, a growing number of NCAA schools have installed Brock PowerBase underneath their synthetic turf fields to help prevent brain injuries and keep student-athletes safe. The industry’s leading shock pad and drainage layer, Brock PowerBase has been proven to reduce G-max, the peak force of impact, which may reduce the risk and severity of concussion.

“With escalating concerns about concussions, collegiate football programs are using the latest technological innovations in areas like shock pads to build state-of-the-art synthetic turf fields that mimic not only the footing of natural grass, but also the safety of it.” noted Dan Sawyer, CEO of Brock International. “There is now no reason why a program has to tolerate a higher G-max just because they want the consistency and durability of synthetic turf. The average G-max rating of a field constructed over PowerBase is around 100g's, the same as a professional level, pristine natural grass field.”

With the collegiate football season now in full swing, seven NCAA schools are currently using Brock PowerBase – the University of Maryland, University of Oregon, Boston College and Boise State in their main stadiums, and UCLA, Georgia Tech and Stanford University on their practice fields. In addition, Brock currently helps protect professional athletes on the San Francisco 49ers playing field and at Gillette Stadium, home of the NFL’s New England Patriots.

Recognizing that athletes tend to experience brain injuries in one of four impact areas – head-to-head, head-to-body, head-to-ball and head-to-surface, Brock tries to prevent concussions by focusing on safer playing surfaces. Research firm BioMechanica, LLC studied the estimated risk of head injury on synthetic turf surfaces with Brock underlayment and found the product reduces G-max, which the lab tests indicated should reduce the risk and severity of concussion; provides the same playability as a pristine natural grass field and mitigates field hardening over time. In evaluating Head Injury Criteria (HIC), also known as critical fall height, Sports Labs LLC found that Brock PowerBase offered significant improvement in HIC when compared to a turf field that featured a stone base.

About Brock International
Brock International is the leader in performance base systems for synthetic turf. With over 25 million square feet of Brock Performance Base in play underneath athletic fields worldwide, the company engineers the best, safest and most sustainable playing surfaces in the world for athletes at all levels. Brock is an Official Education Partner of The Sports Legacy Institute, a Boston-based non-profit organization founded to advance the study, treatment, and prevention of brain trauma in athletes and other at-risk groups. In October 2011, Brock became the first company in the industry to have a Cradle to Cradle Certification CM for its combined drainage and shock pad product. Offering the only product in the market that can be closed loop recycled, Brock PowerBase is certified to the world’s most stringent environmental standards. Visit www.brock-international.com to learn more.

Posted At 2:39 PM • Comments (0)

FitPro North America Launches MyGroupFit

Posted by AB Editors

Source: FitPro

Denver, CO -- On Monday, September 17, 2012, the curtain rose on FitPro North America’s newest brand. As the sister site to PTontheNet.com, MyGroupFit.com is poised to be the go-to resource for all group fitness professionals. Packed with programming ideas, professional development tools and a community of passionate instructors, MyGroupFit is raising the bar on group fitness instruction.

This vision behind MyGroupFit is to establish an inclusive, community-driven platform where instructors, managers and educators alike can learn and grow together, and elevate the industry. MyGroupFit is a diverse educational resource, including Quick Clips of choreography, CEC exams, and partner education. With DVDs from leading fitness presenters, talented bloggers reporting the latest trends, and a comprehensive library of music to fit every format, MyGroupFit is truly a one-stop shop for anyone who teaches group exercise.

FitPro is a global fitness company offering educational solutions for the health and wellness industry. Headquartered in London, with North American offices in Denver, FitPro is the parent company to PTontheNet, PTA Global, and MyGroupFit, as well as the global distributor for ViPR.

MyGroupFit is uniting instructors who want to get inspired and be inspiring. For additional information, please contact info@mygroupfit.com or call 720.489.0294. The company is headquartered in Denver, CO and can be reached online at www.mygroupfit.com.

Posted At 2:39 PM • Comments (0)

Monday, September 24, 2012

Ace Launches New Health Coach Certification

Posted by AB Editors

Source: American Council on Exercise

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Sept. 12, 2012) – Despite 29,365 health and fitness clubs nationwide, two new FDA-approved diet pills and numerous fad diets that sell quick-fix solutions, the number of overweight and obese Americans has continued to climb to more than 67 percent, according to data from IBISWorld and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.

In an effort to provide a better solution to a problem that impacts everything from insurance costs to preventable disease, American Council on Exercise (ACE) has launched the ACE Health Coach certification.

“Fad diets, over-the-counter medication and gym memberships with limited guidance aren’t effective solutions for people who have lived their entire lives overweight or obese,” said ACE Chief Science Officer Cedric Bryant. “Those people don’t just need an exercise program or a diet plan. They need an expert who can guide and empower them. They need someone who can connect with them in a way that makes them not only want to change, but believe they have the ability to make meaningful and lasting changes.”

Intended for fitness, wellness, health care, human resources and allied health professionals who want to make a resounding difference in the way people live, the NCCA-accredited certification emphasizes fitness, nutrition and the science behind true behavior modification.

ACE Health Coach is designed to address a change in the way people view overall health.

“The ACE Health Coach certification reflects what we believe to be the true measure of health and well-being,” Bryant said. “Living your most fit life doesn’t come from just changing the way you eat or altering your schedule to include a few weekly workouts. To truly be fit physically as well as in mind and spirit means achieving balance, strength, agility, coordination and endurance in everything you do. Those Tools for Life, as ACE calls them, extend far beyond weight loss.”

Information about the ACE Health Coach exam will be available beginning today on ACEfitness.org. The newly published “ACE Health Coach Manual: The Ultimate Guide to Fitness, Wellness and Lifestyle Change” features content by fitness and industry leaders including award-winning personal trainer Jonathan Ross, behavioral psychologist Dr. Michael Mantell and registered dietitian Natalie Digate Muth, MD, MPH.

“The ACE Health Coach credential serves as a critical missing link between fitness, medical, allied health and wellness professionals,” Bryant said. “It will provide the knowledge and skills needed to inspire, motivate and encourage individuals to make healthy living an integral part of their lifestyles.”

About ACE
Since 1985, American Council on Exercise (ACE) has evolved from a small nonprofit dedicated to educating people about proper fitness to a 50,000-strong network of certified Personal Trainers , Group Fitness Instructors (GFI), Health Coaches and Advanced Health & Fitness Specialists (AHFS). As the largest NCCA-accredited nonprofit fitness certification organization in the world, ACE provides quality continuing education to professionals and conducts independent science-based research to protect all Americans from unsafe and ineffective products. Our goal is to inspire people to live their most fit lives through free fitness resources including workouts, nutrition information and expert advice. For more information, call (800) 825-3636 or visit ACEfitness.org.

Posted At 9:44 AM • Comments (2)

Monday, September 17, 2012

Win a Free Trip to iClubs Conference in New Orleans

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Athletic Business Media

MADISON, WI – September 17, 2012 – Athletic Business Media and fitness software leader Motionsoft are teaming up on a contest to bring independent club owners and executives to the new iClubs Conference at the Athletic Business Conference & Expo in New Orleans, November 28-December 1, 2012. Winners will receive a two-night hotel stay, a $250 airfare credit and free registration to the iClubs Conference. The contest is being held through Motionsoft’s FillMyGym program and participants can sign-up at motionsoft.net.

The three-day ideas exchange includes roundtables, seminars and networking events focused on strategies for new and veteran independent club operators. Among the dozens of featured speakers will be Peter Guber, Hollywood producer and CEO of Mandalay Entertainment, and industry veteran Art Curtis of Curtis Club Associates, who has guided the growth of some of the industry’s largest independent organizations.

“We found there was a major need for independent gym owners to be able to get together and discuss strategies to prosper in an era of discount fitness centers and corporate chains," said Peter Brown, president of Athletic Business Media. “This event, part of the industry’s largest fall trade show, is perfectly timed with the gym owners fourth-quarter buying cycle and helps them incorporate new strategies in time for the New Year’s rush.”

“When we heard Athletic Business was helping create business solutions for independent club operators, we jumped on the chance to support it,” said Hossein Noshirvani, Motionsoft EVP. “We believe in helping every way we can to make this industry stronger and smarter and that particularly includes empowering this group of entrepreneurs.”

To enter for your chance to win, visit motionsoft.net/fillmygym.

Posted At 11:01 AM • Comments (0)

Thursday, September 13, 2012

KBE of North America Announces Sale

Posted by AB Editors

Source: KBE of North America

CENTRE HALL, PA, September 12, 2012 — After 36 years of service providing moveable swimming pool floors, KBE of North America has been sold to Toronto-based Nationwide Commercial Aquatics.

KBE, based in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, has built over 800 moveable floors all over the world. In 1975, Bill Thomas, then the executive of the Olean, N.Y., YMCA brought the first moveable pool floor to the United States, and shortly thereafter spearheaded the launch of the company’s North American franchise.

KBE of North America will be exhibiting at the Athletic Business Conference & Expo in New Orleans on Nov. 28 and 29 and invites delegates to stop by booth #120 to say good bye; NC Aquatics, located in booth #122, invites delegates to stop and say hello to the new moveable swimming floor and floating bulkhead company.

Posted At 4:00 PM • Comments (0)

Pivotal 5 Inc. Adds Kettleworx to Portfolio

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Pivotal 5 Inc.

CHICAGO, IL, September 12, 2012 – Pivotal 5, an industry leader in wellness and handheld fitness products announces the purchase of fitness brand Kettleworx, the dominant brand in kettlebell training. The acquisition came after Pivotal 5, Inc had been long-time partner with Kettleworx in both product supply and retail distribution.

“The growing popularity of kettlebell training is evident; we saw the opportunity to take the category leader and continue to expand the brand popularity and penetration through our existing channels,” says Adam Schumacher, Pivotal 5 President & CEO. “The addition of Kettleworx is consistent with our growth strategy and company objectives.”

“This acquisition provides a great opportunity to create synergies with our existing business that will be beneficial to both companies,” according to Dave Rossi, Pivotal 5 COO. “We expect these synergies to have an immediate impact across Operations, Sales and Marketing throughout our brand platform.

The Kettleworx brand is currently marketed through television advertising and available at www.kettleworx.com or retail stores nationwide. The Kettleworx brand will be managed from Pivotal 5's Chicago corporate headquarters. Terms of deal were not disclosed. The Peakstone Group acted as exclusive financial advisor to Pivotal 5 Inc in connection with this transaction.

About KettleWorx
Kettleworx, the global leader in kettlebell fitness, is designed for men and women of all fitness levels and is fun, fast and effective. Kettleworx is the only complete fitness program based entirely on kettlebell training instruction. It is a personal training system that turns your body into the ultimate fitness machine, moving in 3 dimensions for more effective whole body workouts. By combining Cardio plus Core plus Resistance training you’re toning muscle head-to-toe and eliminating fat to lose weight.

About Pivotal 5 Inc.
Pivotal 5, located in Chicago, IL since 2002, is an industry leader and trendsetter in wellness and handheld fitness products. They have built a talented, competitive infrastructure focusing on innovative brand/product development, direct to consumer product supply and retail distribution. Pivotal 5 owns national brands Rejuvenation | Prevent + Perform + Recover, Natural Fitness and Kettleworx while licensing other well-respected fitness brands. Pivotal 5 products can be found at national retailers and online at their respective websites.

Posted At 2:44 PM • Comments (5)

DaCast Scores Big With Live Streaming Sports Content

Posted by AB Editors

Source: DaCast

SAN FRANCISCO, September 10, 2012 – DaCast, the leading Streaming as a Service™ video platform, today announced that it partnered with the Little League Softball World Series (LLSWS) , Winchester Community Access & Media (WinCam) and Sinclair Sports Network (SSN) to easily deliver professional pay-per-view video and live stream content to national and international audiences for little league, high school and college level sports.

With DaCast’s white label, all-in-one video streaming platform, the Little League Softball World Series was able to broadcast and monetize content for 24 games of its tournament that brought 10 teams of talented girls from around the world to compete. The live pay-per-view stream reached worldwide audiences that included teams’ home countries such as the U.S., Mexico, Canada and the Netherlands.

DaCast’s platform also enabled WinCam to stream the 2012 Cal Ripken World Series to national audiences to watch each live play of the 10 teams competing in capturing the championship. The live video stream supplemented its live radio stream and online scores and stats to give audiences a variety of choices to augment their viewing experience.

Finally, Sinclair Sports Network was able to stream live the recent Women’s Premier Soccer League national championship with DaCast, garnering a national and international audience. SSN was able to incorporate professional sportscast features such as instant replays into live streams as well as a paywall for monetization. DaCast’s built-in paywall let SSN as well as the LLSWS provide pay-per-view capabilities within the media player on a per game basis as it allows several flexible payment options to decide which payment model best suits each business and content format.

“We were excited to bring the Little League Softball World Series experience live to the fans and families of these talented young girls,” said Tim Jackson with Friends of Softball. “With DaCast’s platform, set-up was simple and packed with easy-to-use tools to bring the best live game experience to viewers around the world. The built-in pay-per-view revenue capabilities allowed us to generate donations in minutes and we look to use DaCast again next year.

“As a public access TV station and non-profit organization, WinCAM has to be very careful with production expenditures. DaCast’s paywall allowed us to recuperate thousands of dollars spent on production costs, and the platform made it very easy to deliver professional live stream coverage of the 2012 Cal Ripken Major 60 World Series to a national audience,” said David Gauthier, Executive Director of WinCAM. “We will definitely use DaCast in the future as we were extremely satisfied with the overall performance and high-quality video stream.”

“We broadcast sporting events featuring some of the most promising young athletes in our area and we were delighted to work with DaCast to share their triumphs with broader audiences,” said Tom Sinclair, Sinclair Sports Network. “We’ve used lots of CDNs on the market and DaCast is the best in terms of price and flexibility. It is the ideal solution for a boutique sports broadcasting company such as ours.”

“We are pleased to serve the needs of organizations such as the Little League Softball World Series and small to medium broadcasters like Sinclair Sports Network and non-profits like WinCam to bring live streaming video to national and international audiences while still being able to monetize content,” said Stephane Roulland, CEO of DaCast. “Our aim is to make the distribution of premium video content simple, while bringing high-quality broadcasting and ad-free monetization capabilities to the industry for high-quality video over the web, Facebook or mobile.”

About Little League Softball World Series
The Little League Softball World Series is a tournament for young women where teams from all over the world travel to compete. The 2012 World Series was held in Portland, Oregon.

About Cal Ripken World Series
Cal Ripken Major/60 World Series championship is a tournament for young men. The 2012 series was held in Winchester, Massachusetts. Cal Ripken Baseball is a sub-division of Babe Ruth League, Inc.

About Sinclair Sports Network
Sinclair Sports Network is a boutique sports broadcasting company located in Fairhope, Alabama live streaming events from along the Gulf Coast. Starting in 2008 using a webcam duct taped to a tripod, SSN has grown to a full production company streaming local sports and producing weekly talk shows. For more information contact Tom Sinclair (SinclairSportsNetwork.com).

About DaCast
DaCast is a Streaming as a Service™ video platform, delivering affordable, professional streaming services for all. By leveraging the cloud, DaCast takes the headache out of video streaming, leaving content owners and broadcasters to focus on what they do best. Trusted by over 14,000 broadcasters, DaCast’s white label, all-in-one video streaming platform allows content owners and broadcasters to be in total control of their online video content. For additional information, visit www.dacast.com.

Posted At 2:34 PM • Comments (0)

SGMA Will Become Sports & Fitness Industry Association

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association

SILVER SPRING, MD – September 12, 2012 –Following a two-year strategic review and planning process, the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA) refined its mission statement, core services and communications platform to focus on promoting sports and fitness participation and industry vitality. Reflecting this direction, the organization will change its name to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA).

“We all recognize the rapid and deep change our industry has experienced in recent years. Health and wellness, as well as sports, will be vibrant cultural and economic engines on a global level. Our Board intends for its trade association to be at the forefront of this evolution, and it starts with providing our member companies the right services and communications,” said Larry Franklin, SGMA Chairman.

“Traditional concepts of “sporting goods” and “manufacturers” have evolved while our terminology has not. Thus, the change from “Sporting Goods” to “Sports & Fitness” is more definitive about our inclusion of brands connected to fitness and active lifestyle products. The change from “Manufacturers” to “Industry” embraces a broader community including suppliers, brands, major sports and fitness retailers and partners – a much clearer reflection of our current and future membership,” said Tom Cove, SGMA President and CEO.

“This is not a change in philosophy for our organization as we already have many members in these categories. It is simply a more accurate and transparent indication of the industry segments that we serve,” Cove added. “And while we continue to embrace, celebrate and support the many companies who continue to manufacture their own products, our general membership -- including many of those manufacturers -- has indicated that there is a need to move beyond the traditional label of a ‘manufacturers’ association.”

The rebranding process is about much more than a name change. It starts with the basics—a new mission statement developed by the Board of Directors: To Promote Sports and Fitness Participation and Industry Vitality. This translates to focusing the new SFIA on four core product areas: Thought Leadership & Events, Public & Industry Affairs, Member Services and Research Insights.

Several new initiatives are planned including:
• Innovative Thought Leadership programs led by the 2013 SFIA Industry Leaders Summit, scheduled for September 25-26, 2013
• A national campaign to grow sport and fitness
participation: PHIT America
• A new “member friendly’” website: www.SFIA.org
• A comprehensive SFIA Supplier Directory
• A groundbreaking new “Grassroots Sports Participation in America” research report
• Content enhancements and design updates to our weekly e-newsletter, InBrief
• Major upgrades to our Product Testing member benefit

“Think about how important “social media” and “direct-to-consumer” platforms are to our industry today and will be in the future. Similarly, it’s remarkable to consider how industry trade shows have changed, especially when we remember the SGMA Super Show during its heyday.One thing you learn if you’ve been around since 1906 like we have---we must realign our positioning, communications and service offerings to meet the changing needs and expectations of our member companies.” said Cove.

While the Board approved the overall rebranding, changing the name of SGMA requires a vote of its membership, which will be done by proxy and ratified at the SGMA Annual meeting this fall.

Additional information can be found by reading our FAQs.

The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA), soon to be the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, the #1 source for sport and fitness research, is the leading global trade association of manufacturers, retailers, and marketers in the sports products industry. SGMA helps lead the sports and fitness industries by fostering participation through research, thought leadership, product promotion, and public policy. More information about SGMA membership, SGMA Research, and SGMA's thought leadership initiatives can be found at www.SGMA.com.

Posted At 8:38 AM • Comments (9)

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Neptune-Benson Acquires Engineered Treatment Systems

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Neptune-Benson

Coventry, Rhode Island (September 10, 2012) – Neptune-Benson LLC (Neptune-Benson), leading manufacturer of commercial aquatic filtration systems, announced today that is has acquired the business of Engineered Treatment Systems LLC (ETS), leader in Ultraviolet (UV) Technology for aquatic, industrial and municipal applications. The ETS acquisition follows Neptune-Benson’s recent purchase of Lawson Aquatics, furthering progress towards the company’s strategic growth objectives.

Jon McClean, ETS President said “The acquisition of ETS by Neptune-Benson is the next step in our company’s progression, and allows us to further our investment in products, people and customers. This partnering provides ETS with expanded resources for R&D and technical expertise. ETS is now positioned for further growth through accelerated product development and a number of other exciting strategic initiatives that have been identified with Neptune-Benson. The management team at ETS will remain to best facilitate a seamless transition and go-forward operations of the company. We are very excited about the opportunities ahead.”

While the companies will look for further opportunities to share resources and build synergies, ETS will continue to operate out of their new headquarters facility in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. The proven track record that both companies bring in assisting commercial aquatics installations to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for their patrons is unparalleled in the aquatics industry. ETS has successfully bridged their aquatics success into the industrial and municipal sectors and will utilize this expertise to help identify suitable applications for Neptune-Benson family products as well.

“ETS makes a perfect addition to our growing organization,” said Barry Gertz, Neptune-Benson CEO. “Their reputation within the world of aquatics is unsurpassed and the experience they bring in the industrial and municipal arenas opens up even more growth opportunities for our filtration systems. The combined capabilities of our organizations will further increase our ability to deliver quality products and services to our global customer base.”

About Neptune-Benson
Since 1956, Neptune-Benson has been a leading manufacturer of fi¬ltration systems for aquatic centers, waterparks and aquatic life support. Featuring the award-winning Defender™ Regenerative Media Filter, Neptune-Benson also offers steel & fiberglass sand ¬filter systems; the AEGIS anti-entrapment shield; fi¬berglass movable bulkheads; Dominion butterfly valves; Guardian strainers along with the complete family of Lawson Aquatics brand products. See: www.neptunebenson.com

About Engineered Treatment Systems (ETS)
Based in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, Engineered Treatment Systems LLC is a leader in the development and manufacture of UV systems, specializing in closed vessel UV technology. Our world class UV systems offer treatment solutions for a range of uses from recreational water to municipal and a wide variety of industrial applications. With advanced technology and a wealth of experience, ETS has the expertise to provide effective and cost efficient solutions for a broad range of industry needs. See: www.ets-uv.com.

Posted At 8:23 AM • Comments (0)

Monday, September 10, 2012

Brock International Becomes an Official Education Partner of Sports Legacy Institute

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Brock International

Boulder, Colorado - (September 10, 2012) – Brock International has become an Official Education Partner of the Sports Legacy Institute, a Boston-based non-profit organization founded to advance the study, treatment, and prevention of brain trauma in athletes and other at-risk groups. Brock PowerBase, the industry’s leading shock pad and drainage layer used underneath synthetic turf fields, has been proven to reduce G-max, which may reduce the risk and severity of concussion.

“Athletes tend to experience brain injuries in one of four impact areas – head-to-head, head-to-body, head-to-ball and head-to-surface. Brock has taken a leadership stance in trying to prevent concussions by focusing on the playing field itself,” noted Chris Nowinski, co-founder and executive director of the Sports Legacy Institute. “We are excited to partner with an innovative company that shares our mission to protect athletes through education programs and raising awareness.”

Sports Legacy Institute (SLI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in June 2007 by concussion expert Dr. Robert Cantu, MD, and former Harvard football player and WWE professional wrestler Chris Nowinski in reaction to new medical research revealing that concussions and brain trauma in sports had become a public health crisis. SLI provides cutting-edge concussion education and develops policy innovations like the Hit Count Initiative. As an Official Educational Partner, Brock International has provided funding that helped SLI deliver their two-hour Advanced Concussion Training (ACT) program to over 1,000 football coaches in the Los Angeles Unified School District, 2,500 coaches in The Chicagoland Youth Football League, and over 3,000 Chicago Public Schools coaches and athletic directors, as well as programs for parents and athletes.

Research firm BioMechanica, LLC studied the estimated risk of head injury on synthetic turf surfaces with Brock underlayment and found the product reduces G-max, the peak force of impact, which the lab tests indicated should reduce the risk and severity of concussion; provides the same G-Max and playability as a pristine natural grass field and mitigates field hardening over time. In evaluating Head Injury Criteria (HIC), also known as critical fall height, Sports Labs LLC found that Brock PowerBase offered significant improvement in HIC when compared to a turf field that featured a stone base.

About Brock International
Brock International is the leader in performance base systems for synthetic turf. With over 25 million square feet of Brock Performance Base in play underneath athletic fields worldwide, the company engineers the best, safest and most sustainable playing surfaces in the world for athletes at all levels. Brock has handled hundreds of successful installations for clients ranging from NFL teams and major universities to high schools and community parks. In October 2011, Brock became the first company in the industry to have a Cradle to Cradle Certification CM for its combined drainage and shock pad product. Offering the only product in the market that can be closed loop recycled, Brock PowerBase is certified to the world’s most stringent environmental standards. Visit www.brock-international.com to learn more.

Posted At 11:54 AM • Comments (0)

Thursday, September 06, 2012

NSPF Offers Two New Entry-Level Online Courses

Posted by AB Editors

Source: National Swimming Pool Foundation

Colorado Springs, Colorado, September 6, 2012 - Two new online courses, Pool & Spa Basics and Water Chemistry Basics, from non-profit National Swimming Pool Foundation® are designed to quickly get retail, builder, distributor and manufacturer employees up to speed on the basics of pool and spa operation and water chemistry. The courses will help people gain the basic knowledge required to effectively perform their job and serve their customers. Industry members who are seeking a higher level of learning will consider taking the organization’s Pool Operator Primer^TM online course, or the prestigious Certified Pool/Spa Operator® (CPO®) Certification program. “With the introduction of the Basics courses, the Foundation now provides pool and spa training options that meet the needs of everyone,” summarizes Alex Antoniou, Ph.D., Director of Education at National Swimming Pool Foundation, the leading educator of those who care for public and residential pools and spas. Details on training options may be accessed at www.nspf.org.

“We developed the learning to meet the needs of these individuals and those new to the industry, who understand that customers expect to find well-informed people on staff, yet – many companies have limited resources to provide employees the knowledge and tools to get there,” explains. Dr. Antoniou. “Whether they are answering phones, working the counter with customers, or in the field, the Pool & Spa Basics and Water Chemistry Basics courses will give them the knowledge and confidence they need.”

Pool & Spa Basics teaches the fundamental knowledge, techniques, and skills of pool and spa operation, filtration, and circulation. Participants will learn about different types of pools and spas, materials and construction. Teaching includes topics such as reducing risk around and in the water, safe chemical handling and storage, importance of recordkeeping, identifying causes of water loss, types of energy loss, and designing for air circulation. Water Chemistry Basics teaches the fundamentals of water chemistry, water testing and chemical dosing. Students will learn about water balance, proper disinfectants, calculations for breakpoint chlorination, how to handle fecal related contamination and other recreational water illnesses.

Since the courses are online, they are self-paced, and students can complete them at their convenience, in more than one sitting. As with all NSPF online courses, the training is dynamic, making learning easier. Each course contains narration, video, images, quizzes and other interactive learning tools to engage the participant.

The cost is just $40.00 USD per student for each course, and includes access to the online training for six months once purchased. People can register for the Pool & Spa Basics and Water Chemistry Basics online training courses at www.nspf.org and click on aquatic training courses, or by emailing customer.service@nspf.org or by calling 719-540-9119. The NSPF Pool & Spa Operator Handbook may be ordered at a discounted price of $50.00 USD with the purchase of either course. Or, a package of all three can be purchased for $130. The Handbook is considered to be the most important recreational manual written in the past 18 years and can be used as a study guide and resource manual for future reference.

The National Swimming Pool Foundation provides a growing portfolio of online educational courses and reference materials and over 100 World Aquatic HealthTM Conference seminars that allow industry members to stay on top of their professional game. Industry professionals receive innovative web-based training that gives anytime, anywhere, on-demand access to quality, cost-effective training materials. NSPF has launched over 40 online courses with many also available in Spanish, and will continue to expand the offerings.

About National Swimming Pool Foundation®
The National Swimming Pool Foundation® is a non-profit organization established in 1965, dedicated to improving public health worldwide and is the leading educator of aquatic facility operators and pool and spa professionals, and the chief philanthropic research sponsor in the aquatics field. The foundation has donated $ 4 million since 2003 to fund grants to prevent illness, injury, and drowning, and to demonstrate the health benefits of aquatic activity. NSPF works towards its mission to encourage healthier living by increasing aquatic activity through education and research with its growing collection of multi-lingual educational products, certification and training, and sponsors the annual World Aquatic HealthTM Conference. Visit www.nspf.org.

Posted At 1:18 PM • Comments (17)

SGMA Report: Team Sports in the U.S. Are Evolving

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Sporting Good Manufacturers Association

SILVER SPRING, MD – September 6, 2012 – The forces of supply and demand are having a major impact on team sports in the United States. According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association’s (SGMA) annual participation study on team sports -- U. S. Trends in Team Sports (2012 edition) – the number of 6-17 year old children that want to play youth sports is on the rise while overall play in local youth sports leagues is decreasing. This SGMA study indicates that there is a shortage of available facilities and local recreation leagues (a supply issue) and there has been an evolution for team sports, such as basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and baseball, into a tournament and “showcase” based model that puts less importance on regular, local league play (a demand issue).

“The importance and significance of team sports in our lives in the U.S. has never been greater than it is right now and this was reflected in the record number of Americans who watched the Olympic Games on television this summer. Our national interest in the U.S. Olympic teams that competed in basketball, soccer, gymnastics, swimming, and track & field was substantial, to say the least,” said SGMA President Tom Cove. “While interest is high in team sports, overall participation in 19 team sports actually declined from 2010 to 2011. It would be great if many of the spectators actually decided to participate as well!”

THE GOOD NEWS

According to SGMA’s U. S. Trends in Team Sports, the team sports which have had strongest gains in overall participation since 2008 are lacrosse (up 37.3%), rugby (up 30%), gymnastics (up 21.4%), ice hockey (up 13.9%), beach volleyball (up 10.6%), and ultimate Frisbee (up 9.6%). Among the 24 team sports in this study, baseball (69%), basketball (67%), and swimming for competition (64%) have the highest percentage of ‘core’ participants, which are those who are the most committed, in terms of playing days, to their respective sport.

“Team sports are actually getting a boost from adult females (age 18+) and among young females (age 6-12). On the other hand, fewer and fewer adult males (age 18+) are playing team sports and those that do play are not playing as many sports as they have been in the past,” said Neil Schwartz, director of business development for SGMA Research.”

SPENDING MONEY ON TEAM SPORTS

In U.S. Trends in Team Sports, there is a section that reports on consumer spending on team sports. The results are revealing:

Equipment Is Key. U.S. consumers were less likely to report cuts in spending on sporting goods equipment in the 2012 survey than they were in the 2011 survey.

‘Niche’ Sports Spur Spending. At least 40% of the participants in field hockey, ice hockey, roller hockey, lacrosse, and wrestling reported an increase in equipment spending in 2011.

Spending This Year. Nearly 40% of team sports participants plan to increase their spending this year on ‘travel to take part in sports/recreation activities’ and ‘team sports outside of school.’

OUTSIDE INTERESTS

In, U.S. Trends in Team Sports, a survey was conducted among team sports athletes to see which sports and activities – outside of their main team sports – interested them.

1. 75% of all cheerleaders have no other athletic interests; 2. 34% of basketball players enjoy working out with weights; 3. 28% of baseball players like bicycle riding; 4. Golf is most appealing to baseball players and roller hockey players; 5. Tennis is most popular among grass volleyball players and indoor soccer players.

LISTEN TO THE LEADERS OF TEAM SPORTS

This edition of U.S. Trends in Team Sports features Q & A interviews with four individuals who play a prominent role in team sports in the U.S. They are Scott Hallenbeck, executive director, USA Football; Stephen Keener, president/CEO, Little League Baseball International; Jon Butler, executive director, Pop Warner Football; and Kevin Davis, president/CEO, Bauer Hockey.

Scott Hallenbeck says USA Football is constantly looking at how the game can be enhanced and improved. In a nutshell, Hallenback says preserving the status quo is never the option at USA Football.

“Football has thrived for decades. It’s notable how strong the game is, although there are so many ways that we are improving it, particularly in coaching education. The sport must continue to evolve. This is happening,” said Hallenbeck. “We have the only nationally accredited coaching education program. Coaching education and instruction have become an important part of youth football. Ours incorporates video, quizzes, 3D visualization, and other tools that add practical value. We have more than 30,000 coaches who come to us individually each year. They genuinely want to get better.”

At Little League Baseball, Keener says it’s important that, as young children, promising baseball players should not focus their athletic talents just on the game of baseball.

“We try to educate parents that everything we’ve heard tells us that specialization at such a young age is not necessarily a good thing,” said Keener. “For instance, in warm weather locations kids are being provided opportunities to play baseball year-round and they get burned out. They’ll be healthier long-term if they diversify.”

At Pop Warner, Jon Butler says his group is well informed on the issue of concussions and is doing everything in its power to keep players as safe as possible.

“In 2010 we established the Pop Warner Medical Advisory Board, led by physicians with expertise in neuromedicine and sports safety, to ensure that Pop Warner stays at the forefront of new health and safety issues and any medical developments that may affect our young athletes,” said Butler. “In June we announced two new rule changes for the 2012 season that address the type of contact and amount of contact allowed in football practice – a first at any level of the sport.”

While Bauer is having success in the marketplace, Kevin Davis says his company does not take that success for granted.

“With Bauer we have 60% market share in ice hockey helmets, and with Cascade we have 80% market share in lacrosse helmets…so safety is our responsibility,” said Bauer. “We treat each season like you rent your market share. We approach everything from a relatively humble basis. There’s a consumer and a customer, and you have to earn that business every season.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

Listed below are some newsworthy excerpts from this edition of U.S. Trends in Team Sports:

A Young Foundation: Competitive swimming has the highest percentage of ‘core’ participants who are 6-17 years-old, as 84% of all ‘core’ competitive swimmers are in that age group. And, 70% of all swimmers are in the 6-17 year-old age group.

School Is Cool: Cheerleading has the highest percentage (77%) of ‘core’ participants who are engaged in an activity through either school or college.

Girls Rule: There are seven activities where more than 50% of the ‘core’ participants are female – cheerleading, field hockey, gymnastics, fast-pitch softball, swimming for competition, court volleyball, and grass volleyball.

The Mature Crowd: Beach volleyball has the highest percentage of ‘core’ participants who are between the ages of 25 and 54 – 64%. Money Matters: The two sports where the largest percentage of participants comes from households that make more than $100,000 a year are field hockey and swimming for competition.

Survey Says: Age 14 is the peak age for participation in team sports in the U.S.

Young and Old: The sports where most of the ‘core’ participants tend to be younger include baseball, flag football, gymnastics, fast-pitch softball, swimming for competition, and track & field, while the sports where most of the ‘core’ participants tend to be older include rugby, touch football, and slow-pitch softball. Cash Register ‘Kings’: The combined category of baseball/softball leads in overall team sports equipment sales – at $489 million (at wholesale) in 2011…….football is number one for wholesale sales of team uniforms ($360 million)……soccer is number one for wholesale sales of team footwear ($285 million).

SPECIAL INDUSTRY STUDIES

1.) There’s a special report entitled Impact of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games.” While this year’s Olympic Games in London attracted more than 219 million viewers in the US (and more than one billion worldwide), what significant and lasting impact will it have participation and interest in sports in the U.S. With the U.S. women winning team gold medals in gymnastics and soccer, how many females will start getting involved in gymnastics and soccer? Who will be the next Gabby Douglass and Abby Wambach?

2.) ‘The Churn Rate’ and ‘Leaky Bucket’ Syndrome. Every year, there are people who are new to an activity or who are returning to a sport (‘Newcomers’) and there are those who stop participating in that sport (‘The Churn Rate’). This process is known as the ‘Leaky Bucket’ Syndrome.

3.) Manufacturers’ sales of team sports gear are featured in U.S. Trends in Team Sports. Specifically, there are listings of manufacturers’ sales (at wholesale) of sports equipment for baseball/softball; basketball; football; ice hockey; lacrosse, soccer; and volleyball (2007-2011)…….manufacturers’ sales (at wholesale) for team uniforms for baseball, basketball, football, soccer, volleyball, and ‘other’ team sports (2007-2011)……and manufacturers’ sales (at wholesale) for team footwear for baseball, football, soccer and volleyball (2007-2011).

The team sports featured in U.S. Trends in Team Sports (2012 edition) include baseball, basketball, cheerleading, field hockey, football (flag), football (tackle), football (touch), gymnastics, ice hockey, lacrosse, paintball, roller hockey, rugby, soccer (indoor), soccer (outdoor), softball (fast pitch), softball (slow pitch), swimming for competition, track & field, ultimate frisbee, volleyball (beach), volleyball (court), volleyball (grass), and wrestling.

To request a copy of U.S. Trends in Team Sports (2012 edition), access www.SGMA.com. This report is available free-of-charge to full members of SGMA and the editorial media.

The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA), the #1 source for sport and fitness research, is the leading global trade association of manufacturers, retailers, and marketers in the sports products industry. SGMA helps lead the sports and fitness industries by fostering participation through research, thought leadership, product promotion, and public policy. More information about SGMA membership, SGMA Research, and SGMA's National Health Through Fitness Day can be found at www.SGMA.com.

Posted At 1:12 PM • Comments (0)