RED BULL PURCHASES METROSTARS AND INVESTS IN SOCCER-SPECIFIC STADIUM

World’s Leading Energy Drink Re-brands Team Red Bull New York

NEW YORK (Thursday, March 9, 2006) - Red Bull Company Limited, the Austrian company that produces the world’s leading energy drink, today finalized an agreement to purchase the MetroStars of Major League Soccer and partner with AEG on the construction of the team’s soccer-specific stadium in Harrison, New Jersey.  With the purchase, the team will be re-branded as “Red Bull New York”, including a new logo, uniforms and team colors to take effect immediately.   

Red Bull’s agreement with AEG, the team’s former investor-operator, was approved by the MLS Board of Governors today, and includes the two companies joining together to invest in the custom-built stadium for the team in Harrison.   As part of the agreement, Red Bull also purchased naming rights to the soccer-specific stadium.   Red Bull will have a 50 percent ownership stake in the facility, and AEG will remain responsible for constructing, managing and booking the venue.

“The addition of Red Bull into our group of owners is a landmark moment for Major League Soccer and for all Tri-State area soccer fans,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said. “Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz brings international credibility and proven, innovative marketing expertise to Major League Soccer.  His presence on the MLS Board of Governors provides another authentic, avid soccer fan to our diversifying set of investors.” 

Red Bull New York’s team emblem, unveiled today on www.redbullsnewyork.com, features two bulls charging toward a soccer ball. The team opens its 2006 campaign on Sunday, April 2 against D.C. United at RFK Stadium (5 p.m. ET). The team’s home opener at Giants Stadium is Saturday, April 8 against the New England Revolution (7:30 p.m.).  The Red Bull New York uniforms will be unveiled soon.   

With Red Bull’s eastern regional offices located in Hoboken, N.J., its commitment to the metropolitan New York area team suits both the company and Major League Soccer. In recent years, Red Bull has increased its investment in professional sports, including NASCAR, extreme sports and Formula One auto racing. In professional soccer, it has transformed Red Bull Salzburg into one of Austria’s leading first division clubs by signing impact players and using innovative marketing to increase attendance.   

About Major League Soccer

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 11^th season on April 1, 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.  For more information about MLS, log on to the League’s official Web site at www.MLSnet.com.

Contact:

With over 17 years experience in the soccer industry, Ian has contributed greatly to the development of MLS Camps’ business operations and marketing strategies. In light of his invaluable expertise and inexhaustible commitment to the ongoing growth and development of MLS Camps, he has been asked to continue his professional relationship with the organization as Business Management Specialist. Ian will remain in charge of the management and maintenance of partner relationships, including Major League Soccer and its twelve teams. He will also be an integral player in the marketing direction of the company as well as with special projects and publications.

“I have enjoyed a long and fruitful career with MLS Camps,” Ian said, “There are so many positive things to look back on. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to grow both myself and the company to levels beyond my expectations. I look forward to continuing to be a part of such an amazing company of great people with an unwavering commitment to kids and soccer.”

MLS Camps Owner, Dr. Gary F. Russell, is supportive of Ian’s achievements. “This is a proud moment for me both as Ian’s boss and friend,” Russell said. “As a CEO, I feel it is my responsibility to grow my employees to live succession management to its fullest. Sometimes that takes them beyond the walls of our organization, but we should never set boundaries around an employee’s growth. Knowing this makes this announcement a celebration of Ian’s achievements. I am very pleased that he will continue to be part of our MLS Camps family.”

Ian’s contact information is as follows:

77A Woodside Lane
Mill Valley, CA 94941
415-888-3034 (office)
415-847-2212 (cell)
ian.tonks@mlscamps.com

Through the new deal with MLS Camps, the Fire will increase its ability to cater to players’ skills and aspirations for the thousands of campers it trains throughout the year.  MLS Camps, whose sites across the nation include 270,000 active players and a coaching staff over 600, is recognized for providing structured and professional training programs for the future stars of soccer.

“MLS Camps is proud to work with the Chicago Fire to offer soccer training from highly qualified, professional coaches,” said Ian Tonks, Vice President of MLS Camps, speaking of the relationship. “As the Chicago Fire's camp and clinic partner, we offer programs that range from community-based to more advanced individual and team training.  Our role in developing young players who aspire to become the next stars of the Chicago Fire is one we take very seriously.”

MLS/Chicago Fire Academy Soccer Camps will be conducted at dozens of locations in the city of Chicago and its suburbs, as well as Northwest Indiana. The camps, available for boys and girls ages 10 through 16, will also serve as the primary evaluation stage for entrance into the Chicago Fire Academy, the Fire Youth Development Program’s year-round supplemental training program.

“MLS Camps’ national reputation of excellence and dedication to the development of youth soccer players from all levels was a primary factor in making this agreement happen,” said Paul Cadwell, Manager of Soccer Partnerships for the Fire. “With the success of the 2005 Chicago Fire Academy Camps, demand necessitated that we implement a new phase of camp programs for the Chicagoland community.”

The MLS/Chicago Fire Academy Soccer Camps offers comprehensive training programs to fit the needs of any individual or team. The Developmental Camp is designed for the player looking to advance technical skills and to compete at a higher level of competition through small-sided training, while the Advanced Camp builds more tactical development and prepares players for real-life match conditions. A customized Team Camp is also available for teams or clubs looking to prepare as a whole, ideal for preseason or tournament preparation.

For more information on MLS Camps/Chicago Fire Academy Soccer Camps, please contact:

Adrian Gray
Camp Coordinator 
Email AGray@Chicago-Fire.com
Telephone: 1-800-680-6272

Adam Gee
Sales Consultant
Email: Adam.Gee@MLScamps.com
Telephone: 1-800-680-6272

MYSTIC, CT (March 19, 2005) - MLS Camps has teamed up with both the U.S. Soccer Foundation and the National Association of Police Athletic/Activities Leagues, Inc. (National PAL) to give less fortunate children the opportunity to enjoy the glorious game of soccer. We invite you to join us in this charitable endeavor.

The Passback Program is an initiative developed by the U.S. Soccer Foundation to help meet the equipment and uniform needs of every boy and girl, man and woman, who wants to play soccer. The partnering of U.S. Soccer Foundation, the National PAL and MLS Camps allows your club the unique opportunity to organize your own uniform and equipment donation drive specifically targeted for children.

The National PAL organization is graciously giving of their time and resources by offering the services of local chapters to pick up and disseminate the donated soccer goods. National PAL Executive Director Bob Still proudly endorses his organization's involvement. “In keeping with a part of our mission statement to provide athletic and recreational resources to our National PAL Chapters, (this partnership) provides the opportunity for PAL kids to receive new and slightly used equipment and gear that would have normally been unavailable,” he said.

While many of the donated items will be given to less fortunate children here in the U.S., MLS Camps, with help from the American Red Cross, is also targeting international donation sites, including the Sudan and tsunami-impacted countries, such as Indonesia.

How can you help?

Following are three simple steps a soccer club needs to follow to be a Passback Program participant:

That's all it takes to make a difference in the lives of kids who are not as fortunate as most of us. MLS Camps has proudly served kids, clubs and communities for over 35 years. Please help us pay it forward by volunteering to be part of the Passback Program.

> If your club is interested in being part of this worthwhile cause, please email ian.tonks@mlscamps.com
> To learn more about the Passback Program click here
> To learn more about National PAL and their commitment to kids please visit nationalpal.org

KRAFT FOODS IS MLS CAMPS’ 2005 TITLE SPONSOR

MYSTIC, CT (March 19, 2005) - MLS Camps is pleased to announce Kraft Foods as the Title Sponsor for all its 2005 soccer programs and events, highlighting Kraft’s commitment to Nutrition, Health and Wellness. 

MLS Camps’ involvement with Kraft began with an MLS/Kraft relationship that has extended itself to also serve MLS Camps.  As many of you already know, Kraft manufactures countless favorite food and drink products consumed daily by millions of people throughout the world.  Here are just a few of the numerous Kraft foods you may recognize: 

In addition to seeing Kraft prominently displayed at MLScamps.com, there are also five exciting Kraft-sponsored MLS Camps events offered:

• Kraft Health and Wellness Clinic

A free pre-camp clinic event offered to help drive camp registration and inform parents and players of the numerous benefits of nutrition and exercise.

• Activity Break

A daily 10-minute health and wellness break during camp activities.

• Awards Ceremony

An end-of-week camp event that sums up the lessons learned throughout the week’s activity breaks regarding the benefits of good nutrition.

• Stadium Graduation Ceremony

Conducted at MLS team stadiums, the main focus is on the importance of physical activity and exercise; more specifically, Endurance, Flexibility and Strength.

• Inner City Clinic Program

Camperships (free scholarships) are awarded to 1,000 underprivileged kids to attend a one-day clinic in New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.

• Sweepstakes Giveaway Clinic Program

Ten winners will receive the opportunity to take 25 friends to an MLS Camps mini-camp for FREE.

 Thanks to the fine folks at Kraft, MLS Camps’ 2005 camp programs promise to deliver the value of nutrition, the unbeatable benefits of physical activity, and…as always…fun soccer activities that educate and stimulate players of all ages and abilities.

To learn more about Kraft’s commitment to Nutrition, Health and Wellness click here

What You Can Expect To See At Camp This Year

In addition to the many Kraft-sponsored MLS Camps events and activities this year, you will also see the Kraft mark on many on-camp items such as:  staff and player apparel, banners, camper evaluations and soccer balls.

Free camp giveaways for 2005 feature hacky sacks provided by Kraft and free Kraft food items.  Each camper will also receive an MLS/MLS Camps custom publication called The Soccer Source, America's youth soccer magazine for parents, players, kids, coaches, and referees.

As you can see, camp participants are in for loads of fun at this year’s MLS Camps programs!

MLS CAMPS IS KICKING AND SCREAMING AT THEATERS ACROSS THE COUNTRY

(New York, N.Y. - May 3, 2005)  Loews Cineplex Entertainment is proud to announce the launch of the "Kick to Win" soccer event timed to the highly anticipated upcoming film "Kicking & Screaming," starring Will Ferrell and Robert Duvall.

 Loews Cineplex is inviting its young patrons from the New York and New Jersey area to the Loews Jersey Gardens theatre on Friday, May 20^th, for its first-ever soccer-kicking contest.  Nets will be set up in the theatre lobby where kids will have the chance to kick balls through a cut out and try to score goals to win great prizes.  All local schools and soccer teams are welcome to come down and enjoy the fun.

The grand-prize is the ultimate soccer fantasy, the chance to attend a Major League Soccer Camp with a friend.  One lucky runner-up will receive a private lesson at a camp.  Many other prizes will be awarded including Major League Soccer Camp Balls and T-shirts and other "Kicking and Screaming" merchandise.

 "We are thrilled to provide our young patrons with this fun and exciting opportunity", said John McCauley, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Loews Cineplex Entertainment.  "Young movie-going soccer fans can come down and help us kick off the release of "Kicking and Screaming."

Loews Cineplex Entertainment Corporation (www.enjoytheshow.com) is the third largest movie theater chain in the world, with 200 theaters and 2,176 screens worldwide and is privately held by Bain Capital, The Carlyle Group and Spectrum Equity Investors.   Loews' maintains operations in the U.S., Mexico, South Korea and Spain.  The company operates under the names of Loews Theatres, Cineplex Odeon, Star Theatres and Magic Johnson Theatres in the United States, as well as Cinemex in Mexico, Megabox in South Korea and Yelmo Cineplex in Spain.

MLS Camps is the official camp and clinic of Major League Soccer.  It has been America’s leader in youth soccer education for over 35 years, serving parents, coaches, teams, and players, as well as affiliates and sponsors from countless industries.  To register for summer camp, call 1-800-680-6272 or visit MLScamps.com

STRENGTHS-BASED COACHING

MYSTIC, CT  (February 19, 2005) - While running soccer programs in countless communities for over 35 years, MLS Camps CEO Dr. Gary Russell was also researching human behavior.  His goal was to create the best coaching methodologies that could increase and sustain player and coach performance.  By working with players aged 2 to 18, he was able to successfully translate his research into an effective child-centered curriculum called Kidriculum®.  This helped make the game fun, performance enhancing and appropriate to the physical and psychological development of the player. 

Armed with his researched findings about people and performance, Dr. Russell is now working with The Gallup Group (Performance Management Co.) to combine their areas of expertise in a unique way.  He has taken Gallup’s research on talent and applied it in corporate settings through consultative services, and, more recently, is working closely with them to create an instrument to measure talent themes in children ages 10 and up. 

 As part of a workshop presentation at the NSCAA Convention in Baltimore, Dr. Russell reviewed his work with Gallup and the concept of strengths-based coaching.  He then invited the coach participants to become involved in this project by sharing their own knowledge and experiences.  If you’d like to learn more about this strengths-based coaching project, email gary.russell@mlscamps.com.

THE BENEFITS OF STRENGTHS-BASED COACHING by Dr. Gary F. Russell

For years, we have heard people involved in youth sports say that winning isn’t everything.  It almost gave us hope that the focus was actually moving from the game itself to the kids who played it.  However, no one seemed to know how to shift the focus and what to actually focus on.  Today there are finally signs that movement will actually take place, as talent-based profiling is now being introduced to develop our players young and old as both individuals and team members.  Talent profiling is also a very beneficial tool that can be used with coaches as well to target their strengths to build their coaching performance.

Talent-based profiling is built on a philosophy that people have strengths and abilities that are born from their talents.  It is those abilities that people should be managed from—not from their weaknesses.  Using this same philosophy, coaches can constructively coach from a talent-and strengths-based position in an environment that fosters positivity.

Talent profiles highlight a person’s top five “talent themes” out of a possible 34.  Their ultimate aim in youth sports is to have coaches understand their own talent profiles and then those of their team member. From there, they can then build an understanding of the dynamics and implications of the coach/player relationship to maximize everyone’s performance.

While the focus still remains to some extent on the game, as it should, most coaches find that managing players one of their greatest challenges.  Just like in a classroom with kids or a corporation with employees, getting a group of people to function as a total team goes much further than focusing each person’s athletic abilities.  While there are many players who may be individually talented in a sport, getting them to perform as a singularly talented team is requires talented coaches.  And, as we all know, some coaches are better at doing this than others.

A strengths and talent based approach is being used successfully in business and educational settings today, and it is their key is into increasing performance and productivity.  Implementing talent-based profiling in the sports arena promises more for the future of youth sports and coaching than we could have ever hoped for.

MLS CAMPS AND THE NSCAA KICK UP THE LEVEL OF YOUTH SOCCER COACHING

MYSTIC, CT  (June 30, 2004) - The National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) has reached an agreement with MLS Camps to train coaches to teach NSCAA State, Regional and National Youth Diploma courses.  This exciting move will allow MLS Camps to enhance coaching instruction as part of its already diverse product and service offerings.   The educational experience that this partnership will ultimately extend to the volunteer parent coach is invaluable.

“MLS Camps is excited to be part of the NSCAA’s coaching education,” said MLS Camps President, Dr. Gary Russell.  “We’re very honored to be associated with the foremost soccer education and training organization here in America, and are thrilled to be able to take our coaches’ training to a higher level.  This will enhance not only our own coaches’ capabilities, but also enable us to do the same for our valued volunteers.”

“This is an important step in our outreach to the recreational coach,” said NSCAA President Joe Cummings, the Technical Director for the New England Revolution. “The mom or dad who volunteers to coach their child’s team is most in need of the type of information available through these courses. Partnering with MLS Camps gives us an excellent avenue through which we can deliver our product.”

MLS Camps is the official camp and clinic of Major League Soccer.  It has been America’s leader in youth soccer education for over 35 years, serving parents, coaches, teams, and players, as well as affiliates and sponsors from countless industries.  In addition to working with 270,000 clients in 1,100 communities annually, MLS Camps also works with highly reputable organizations such as the JCCs of North America, YMCA, Boy Scouts of America, the Gallup Organization and numerous soccer organizations across the United States. 

Based in Mission, Kansas, the NSCAA is the largest coaches' organization in the United States. Since its founding in 1941, it has grown to include more than 17,000 members who coach both genders at all levels of the sport. In addition to a national rankings program for colleges and high schools, NSCAA offers an extensive recognition program that presents more than 10,000 individual awards every year.  It fulfills its mission of coaching education through a nationwide program of clinics and weeklong courses, teaching more than 3,000 soccer coaches each year.

For additional information contact: Ginger Asher, Director of Communications, Major League Soccer Camps, 732-303-9978, ginger.asher@mlscamps.com