Press Archive 2006
ICI Paints scores with top US Soccer League
8 May 2006
ICI Paints has announced that it has agreed to become an official corporate partner of Major League Soccer.
This partnership demonstrates the company's commitment to the growing popularity of soccer within the U.S., and expects it to make an impression with their professional and DIY customers.
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer is the top-flight professional soccer league in the United States and features many stars from the U.S. and around the world. Entering its 11th season in April 2006, the 12 teams in MLS are: the Chicago Fire, Colorado Rapids, Club Deportivo Chivas USA, Columbus Crew, D.C. United, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Kansas City Wizards, Los Angeles Galaxy, Red Bull New York, New England Revolution and Real Salt Lake.
Under terms of the agreement, ICI Paints will receive a designation as an "Official corporate partner of Major League Soccer" and the company's Glidden brand will become the "Official paint of Major League Soccer."
MLS events run from April through November. Twelve teams play in 11 U.S. markets, with nationally broadcasted weekly matches. Local market broadcasts are in English and Spanish (by market). More than 200 matches are seen by three million spectators per season, during the regular season, playoffs, the Sierra Mist MLS All-Star Game, and MLS Cup.
As part of this partnership, ICI Paints will participate in MLS' Futbolito(TM) event, MLS' official amateur soccer tournament. This 4-v-4 national tournament is a grassroots program targeting the League's Hispanic fan base. The event is an all-day family festival featuring competitive adult and children's soccer, music, food, and MLS player appearances.
This year, the tournaments are being held in 16 cities around the U.S. Most events tie to a local MLS club. Up to 175 teams (seven people per team) play in the all-day tournament, where cash prizes of up to $3,000 are awarded.
ICI Paints/Glidden will feature a booth at every event, offering brochures, samples, and children's activities. The ICI Paints and Glidden logos will also appear on players' shirts and signage all around the venue.
Contact: Matt Barkett for ICI Paints, +1-216-241-3073
