Hong Kong-based international property company IP Global has been unveiled as the new title sponsor of the territory’s famous Soccer Sevens.
The fast-expanding firm has agreed to back the 2009 tournament with an option for a multi-year extension.
“We are delighted to welcome IP Global on board and we anticipate this being the start of a very happy relationship with the Soccer Sevens,” said tournament organising committee chairman Tony Bratsanos. It is no secret that in the current economic climate, sports events are struggling to attract or retain investment, which makes IP Global’s commitment to the Soccer Sevens even more valued and appreciated.”
The 2009 HKFC IP Global International Soccer Sevens will be held at Hong Kong Football Club from May 29-31.
The tournament has earned a reputation for unearthing future stars with players such as Gabriel Agbonlahor, Anton Ferdinand, David Bentley and Glen Johnson making their names in recent years.
“IP Global is honoured to be the title sponsor of this year’s Soccer Sevens,” said managing director Tim Murphy. “For me personally, it is a moment of great satisfaction as football has always been my favourite sport and the one closest to my heart. We are fully committed to working with Tony and his team to help the Soccer Sevens grow, both on and off the pitch. We are pleased to assist in bringing world famous football teams to Hong Kong, giving the passionate fans here a truly outstanding sporting spectacle to enjoy. And for us at IP Global, the tournament provides an excellent platform for raising our profile, interacting with our clients and enhancing our role in the Hong Kong community.”
IP Global’s title sponsorship was announced in a press conference today (Tuesday, May 10) at Hong Kong Football Club.
Since it was first held in 1999, the tournament – sanctioned by the Hong Kong Football Association – has developed into the world’s premier seven-a-side soccer event.
The Main competition has become famous for unearthing the “stars of tomorrow” while the Masters section features former elite players from Europe’s top leagues.
Organisers also confirmed that defending champions Aston Villa will be returning in search of their third straight title and fifth overall. They will be joined in the Main competition by fellow English Premier League club West Ham United and Scottish giants Celtic and Rangers. The Masters competition will feature a squad of former Premier League players called the IP Global All-Stars and a debut appearance by the Polish All-Stars.
A total of 32 teams will take part in the Soccer Sevens, 16 in the Main competition and 16 in the Masters. Each competition will feature a pool round followed by knockout games for the Cup, Shield and Plate (in the Main) and Cup and Plate (in the Masters).
Play will take place from 6:00pm to 8:30pm on Friday, May 29; from 8:00am to 8:00pm on Saturday, May 30; and from 8:00am to 7:00pm on Sunday, May 31.
Entry on May 29 is free for all spectators, while all children under the age of 16 are allowed in free throughout the tournament. Adult tickets will cost HK$200 for two days (May 30 and May 31 sold together) or HK$120 for one day.
Tickets can be bought from May 9 via the official website – www.hksoccersevens.com – or through Laxton Marketing Consultants (Tel: 2866 3110), or they can be purchased at the public entrance during the tournament.
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