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Yesterday it was announced that Innjoo, a technologies company, has signed a sponsorship agreement with Deportivo Alaves brokered by ISL.
Earlier this year, ISL inked an exclusive deal with the Healthcare arm of InnJoo, a Spanish based technology company, to act as their business development partners throughout the continental U.S. With the relationship spearheaded by ISL’s Bruno Diaz, and his long standing relationships with clubs around Europe, it led to the possibility of brokering this exciting sponsorship deal.
Innjoo will feature on the back of the shorts of the Deportivo Alaves players in matches during the 2020/2021 season. The financials of the deal are not released. This is the first major kit sponsorship deal brokered by Bruno Diaz for ISL.
Haritz Karejeta, CEO of Alaves, acknowledge the values of Innjoo were at the core of this relationship as well as how this deal continues to signify the international growth of the club. Karejeta was also keep to acknowledge the he valued the relationship established with ISL through this deal. In addition, the Marketing Director of Innjoo, Pablo Guerrero spoke to the core of this deal, “Innjoo identifies with the same values as the Baskonia-Alavés Group, a benchmark for life both in Vitoria and in the Basque Country”. He also stated that with the sponsorship Innjoo hope to “reach the people”.
Bruno Diaz, ISL’s key figure in the deal, said of the sponsorship “With relationships like Alaves and Innjoo who understand the value of sponsorship, and are open to find win win situations, it’s always a a pleasure to close such a valued partnership. We are sure it will be a long term deal.” Bruno also added “With this deal, we’re excited to help businesses in the future achieve their marketing goals through sponsorship.”
This is not InnJoo’s first foray into sponsorships, but it is a first in partnership with Alavés. We are looking forward to seeing this sponsorship relationship grow, as well as the opportunities this announcement brings to the ISL sponsorship team in the future.
Another summer camp tour across the nation has come and gone. Once again, in partnership with FC Barcelona our team traveled multiple routes with staff members to cities all around the country to instruct boys and girls in Barca values, techniques, style and tradition. From San Diego to Philadelphia, Austin to Boston, and Denver to Portland we hosted camps in over 16 different cities.
Unlike most summers past, this year was quite different for a number of reasons, but mainly due to the global Covid pandemic which forced us to scale back on the size of campers we are typically used to hosting, as well as the number of camps we plan to put on around the country.
Pre-Covid, our efforts to have another sellout summer of training and fun began it’s planning stages in Q4 of 2019, with routes being established, facilities being booked, coaches and staff committing to 7 weeks on the road, as well as the logistics of ordering uniforms for campers and the housing in each city. It’s a big deal to coordinate, but one our team thoroughly enjoys seeing come to life.
It was by mid-march when we first started to see what might lay ahead for the summer plans and all the hard work that had been put into place. Up until that point we were quickly on track to selling out camp at a record pace, but then the country started to shut everything down, namely ALL sports for the foreseeable future. As you can imagine, registrations nosedived almost immediately and facilities that had been locked down for months began to cancel agreements left and right.
One moment everything is moving along smoothly and then the next thing you know everything is out of your control, but not to ever back down from a challenge, we decided to take a step back to reassess the situation and to plan accordingly and in line with what government officials and the CDC recommended to make sure in keeping with utmost safety.
We scaled back our itinerary from the original plan of 40 cities nationwide to under half that to 16 camps, coast to coast. Our logistics team contacted and confirmed bookings with parks and recreation facilities. All of our coaches and staff were trained immediately in the correct procedures of keeping all of the campers safe, as well as each other. Commitments were made to wearing gloves and masks at all times at camp. Additionally, one way in and out check in stations were set up where campers were allowed to enter and leave facilities. With all of the logistics sorted out, we still wanted to emphasize an atmosphere of fun and growth for the campers. As one of the few companies hosting nationwide camps and expecting over 2000 registrants to participate we made this our ultimate goal, given the current global climate.
As we wrapped up week 7 in the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, we reflected on the summer to date and how our commitment to keeping everyone safe was validated in the precaution and safety measures we took. 2 weeks after the fact we have still had zero Covid incidents for either campers, coaches or staff.
Thank you for trusting us this Summer and we look forward to making it back to your city in 2021. Be on the lookout for cam announcements in the fall.
In the past little had been known about this fast growing sport, or as some have referenced it as the little brother of soccer, but futsal is the only form of indoor soccer endorsed by FIFA. It earned the status of FIFA’s official form of indoor soccer in the 1980s as it was recognized as a scaled down version of outdoor soccer played indoors. It is a 5 v 5 small-sided game played on a hard surfaced, basketball sized court with a smaller, heavier low bounce ball.
Futsal is played with touchline boundaries and without walls. It is a game that most recognized outdoor soccer players around the globe play to refine and maintain their control skills and touch. Great soccer superstars such as Ronaldo, Messi, Kaka and Neymar grew up playing the game and credit futsal with developing their skills.
The mission of our indoor program is simple, develop top tier players and people through the uniqueness of this sport, all the while providing a comfortable platform for all to learn and advance on and away from the court. The philosophy is unconventional in that the overall approach is holistic and centers on the encouragement of individual creativity and player intelligence. In itself, futsal is a very distinctive game, and often takes players out of their comfort zones in order to stretch their skills to reach their next level. The goal in these circumstances is to help ensure players are constantly striving for loftier goals and succeeding.
Governing the success and growth of Futsala for ISL are Adam Brundle, Pedro Oliveira and Caio Maciel. This trio oversees academies in both Austin, TX and Charlotte, NC. Along with the support of the ISL family have taken a concept of humble beginnings and transformed it into one of the hottest programs in the nation.
Programs vary, depending on interest and individual development within the game, but can be specialized to fit specific needs of the player. There are 2 core categories that are open to players, with a week long summer camp option for all skill levels looking to continue to refine their techniques or simply check out the sport for the first time.
To break it down, Futsala offers a year round academy aimed at player’s 4- 18 years old with varying levels of background experience from beginners to experts. In addition, Futsala has a Classes & Sessions program, which offers players the opportunity to continue playing during holidays. This program is not exclusive, but rather open to all, but still ensures top level and quality coaching. Also, each player will be matched up with a group of kids to fit their needs and to ensure the optimum learning environment.
Since forming, Futsala has experienced a string of rapid successes for both players and coaches. It has even gained national and international attention for top level play on the court. Recently our ‘03 Barefoot-Futsala girls Team were crowned the National Champions In addition, there has been recognition at National ID’s, with twelve of our players getting invited to participate with the US National Youth Team.
Trips that were once just a short drive from home to the courts are now around the country and abroad to compete against the best the nation and world have to offer. It is a far departure from its humble beginnings, but a journey that is just beginning and with a big, bright future ahead. If you would like to have a futsal program near you, let us know.
We are thrilled to announce that we have officially kicked off the start of the 2020/21 season signifying our continued partnership with FC Barcelona. From coast to coast boys and girls ranging in array of age categories return back out on to the fields to continue their education in FC Barcelona values, style and techniques.
For some this will be their first season with us, having gone through summer tryouts at our different locations and finding that the philosophy of the Barca way being in line with helping them advance in their skills, field IQ and overall love for the beautiful game. In Charlotte, NC we were especially proud to announce that our Academy there has expanded regionally and around the city, as well as with 2 new locations across the border into South Carolina.
With all of the excitement of getting going again and watching our players grow, we are earnestly keeping in mind that we are still in the midst of a global pandemic. For the past 7 weeks we have been actively putting into practice safety procedures that are in line with CDC and government regulations at our camps from around the nation and truly believe that we will continue to refine these practices in order to keep all of our players safe. This is non-negotiable for us and will always be our number one priority in each city that we have an Academy.
Many protocols have been put into place to ensure utmost safety, including mandatory temperature checks and hand sanitization. Redesigning drills at a safe distance, as well as disinfecting all training materials. Players will only interact with their own ball for individual games. For cooperation games players will share a ball, through which they must achieve a common goal. For opposition in a non-shared space, players will cooperate with a shared ball to achieve a common goal, sharing only their space and without defensive contact.
These are just some of the procedures we are putting into practice and will continue to communicate with you through email and social media as these protocols are added and refined.
ISL prides itself in putting on unparalleled experiences for clients, brands and athletes, all the while exceeding expectations. The launch of MICFootball USA in 2019 was no exception, and we have been looking forward to the tournaments second installment.
“We are at the helm of a sport that vast numbers of people live and breathe that has been laid low by this invisible and fast-moving opponent. It is at times like these that the football community needs to show responsibility, unity, solidarity and altruism.” Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA President.
Considering the recommendations from WHO, UEFA and the local authorities, ISL and MIC Sports acknowledge the worldwide impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the risk it represents to global health.
Under these circumstances, ISL regrets to inform that the MICFootball USA tournament 2020 has been postponed to 2021.
“We are very disappointed that the tournament will not take place, but as an active player in the soccer scenario, and an important piece in developing and inspiring the new soccer generations, ISL’s priority is the health of our local communities, fans, players, volunteers, sponsors, employees, vendors, and everyone involved with the event”, says Marc Segarra, ISL co-founder.
MICFootball is one of the major youth soccer tournaments in the world, where legendary players like Messi and Neymar have made their competitive debuts. Thousands of talented participants were expected, but we will have to wait until 2021 to see the stars of the future shining again.
“We will not let down our young players and their dreams, we will do everything within our reach so that they can enjoy this experience in a safe environment”, Marc Segarra.
ISL apologizes for any inconveniences this decision may have caused, and intends to share updates on the tournament.
We will get through this together and we will be back on the fields soon enough and stronger than ever. See you at the IMG Facility in Bradenton, FL. in 2021.
Esports has quietly made its way into the forefront of the gaming world, taking its place in the sports landscape. Teams are popping up in major cities around the world and it has turned into a multibillion dollar a year industry with significant prize money and endorsements on the line.
It’s hard to deny the popularity of Esports. Viewership is increasing year over year, there’s constant experimentation with new revenue models and it’s redefining the way we engage with online content. It’s a fresh, digitally native take on watching competitive sports, and it’s here to stay.
ISL is proud to announce a new partnership with the Ultimate Gamer – the worlds first and only multi genre esports proving ground – to find the Best Gamer on Earth, offering a $1Million prize purse during an upcoming esports tournament. The partnership reflects ISL’s vision for a future where sports and esports play together.
The partnership consists of high profile ambassadors helping promote the tournament and take it to audiences that otherwise wouldn’t be reached. ISL connected Marcelo, Real Madrid defender, Sergio Busquets, FC Barcelona midfielder, and Darko Peric, actor in the hit television show Money Heist, with Ultimate Gamer. The three celebrities will be using their social media influence to promote the tournament.
The goal of this partnership is two fold, to help Ultimate Gamer break into the sports and entertainment market, while helping sports and entertainment personalities connect with Ultimate Gamer, building everyones brand in new markets.
We’re looking forward to the partnership with Ultimate Gamer, and continuing to disrupt the esports scene. The partnership is set to continue for further ventures in the space. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletters for future announcements on this partnership!
With over 500,000 competitors worldwide, the Ultimate Gamer brings people together through the power of gaming, and the best part is: you can join in for free and from the comfort of your home, anywhere in the world.
The tournament will feature 17 of the most popular video games in the world, including Fortnite, Fifa, LOL, Apex Legends, Dota 2, Overwatch, or Counterstrike. Registration ends and qualifiers begin September 1st.
We’re living in unusual times that require actions that are going to make a difference, and ISL recognize that we can aid in the efforts. In partnership with Innjoo, ISL will be working to distribute Innjoo’s healthcare products to the sports industry and other businesses within the United States of America.
ISL will use it’s network within different American institutions to help prepare leagues, federations, sports commissions, and governments with Innjoo’s healthcare equipment, ensuring people have access to safe, reliable and certified products when sports and life return to normal.
With the current climate of COVID-19, we have all come to truly value the power of sports and the way it brings people together. We all miss cheering on our favorite teams and players with thousands of other spectators and staff. Someday soon players, fans and staff will be able to return to sporting events, enjoying the pastimes that have built relationships and connected communities to one another. When we are able to return, things may look a bit different than before with social distancing protocols becoming a fabric of our society for some time. The protocols will require products that keep us all safe while enjoying our favorite sporting events and quotidian moments. Face masks, protective gloves, thermometers and hand sanitizer will become a part of our “new normal”.
ISL hope we can all work together in order to prepare ourselves for when life goes back to normal. If you believe you can aid in ISL’s efforts to supply healthcare products and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to Sporting, Healthcare or any other organization in need, please contact us below.
Innjoo are a global technology and healthcare products provider who have been invested in the sports industry for some time, exemplified in their jersey sponsorship of RCD Espanyol. They are also the official healthcare provider of the Spanish government, and have been on the front lines combating the COVID-19 crisis and keeping healthcare workers safe. The variety of product Innjoo offers varies from different facial masks (Surgical, KN95, 3M), gloves, Rapid COVID-19 test and other Personal Protective Equipment. All of Innjoo’s products are FDA Approved, and meet all of the legal requirements for use in the American Market. Innjoo can supply large product quantities in less than a week as they are manufacturers of these products and have their own fleet of cargo planes.
Innjoo and ISL are looking forward to providing solutions to our communities that will help us all return to a life we all miss.
Learn more about Innjoo here www.innjoo.com
In the past little had been known about this fast growing sport, or as some have referenced it as the little brother of soccer, but futsal is the only form of indoor soccer endorsed by FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association). It earned the status of FIFA’s official form of indoor soccer in the 1980s as it was recognized as a scaled down version of outdoor soccer played indoors. It is a 5 v 5 small-sided game played on a hard surfaced, basketball sized court with a smaller, heavier low bounce ball. Great soccer superstars such as Pele, Zico, Ronaldo, Messi, Kaka and Katia grew up playing the game and credit futsal with developing their skills.
The mission of our indoor program is simple, develop top tier players and people through the uniqueness of this sport, all the while providing a comfortable platform for all to learn and advance on and away from the court. The philosophy is unconventional in that the overall approach is holistic and centers on the encouragement of individual creativity and player intelligence. In itself, futsal is a very distinctive game, and often takes players out of their comfort zones in order to stretch their skills to reach their next level. The goal in these circumstances is to help ensure players are constantly striving for loftier goals and succeeding.
Since forming, Futsala has experienced a string of rapid successes for both players and coaches. It has even gained national and international attention for top level play on the court. Recently our ‘03 Team were crowned the National Champions In addition, there has been recognition at National ID’s, with six of our players getting invited to participate with the US National Youth Team.
Programs vary, depending on interest and individual development within the game, but can be specialized to fit specific needs of the player. There are 2 core categories that are open to players, with a week long summer camp option for all skill levels looking to continue to refine their techniques or simply check out the sport for the first time.
Trips that were once just a short drive from home to the courts are now around the country and abroad to compete against the best the nation and world have to offer. It is a far departure from its humble beginnings, but a journey that is just beginning and with a big, bright future ahead.
For many the Christmas season is a time to take a break from the busyness of the year and relax with family and loved ones. For others, it’s the chance to experience a once in a lifetime trip to Barcelona with their extended futsal family, all the while taking in rich Spanish culture and showcasing their indoor prowess by playing against the highest level of international competition.
If you didn’t know already, futsal is quickly becoming one of the fastest growing youth sports in America, for boys and girls, and beyond that the U.S. is producing some of the best talent in the world.
As a global sports marketing company, with a heavy focus on soccer, we pride ourselves in being involved in this alternative to the beautiful game, additionally running two successful futsal academies in Austin, TX and Charlotte, NC as part of our portfolio, spearheaded by ISL Director, Adam Brundle.
In the world of Futsal ISL has quickly aligned itself with the game’s heavy hitters, including the USYF and Keith Tozer – the Commissioner of the Professional Futsal League. It was through this relationship that the idea of putting on a trip together for a sizable group of boys and girls in conjunction with USYF to Barcelona was birthed. This is no easy feat, but the task of seasoned professionals like our Travel Management and Experience Team, headed up by Achille Obougou.
From the planning stages to the execution, it all came and went in the blink of an eye. Over the course of 10 days, 250 plus players and family members made the inaugural USYF/ISL joint international trip from different parts of the U.S. to the Catalonian city of Barcelona. Aside from being a highly immersive training and competitive playing trip, where the USYF played the likes of the Catalan National team, players and guests had the chance to take in the historical sights, take an all access tour of Camp Nou, dine at the many wonderful eateries around the city, but best of all they all had the great fortune of being able to participate in a FC Barcelona Futsal – First Team practice, as well as the chance to meet their heroes and grab pictures with them.
“From the time we landed in Barcelona until the time we headed back to the States, the ISL team had seamlessly organized and executed a non-stop, fun and action packed itinerary for the players and family members.” – Keith Tozer. He added, “We are very excited about the partnership the USYF have with ISL, and look forward to many trips together in the near future.”
Over the past year ISL have worked with BK2 in order to aid young soccer players in their journey to play at the next level. While some players have the rare gift of beginning a professional career at a young age, many others find the option to play collegiately as the best fit for them. Playing collegiate not only allows a young player to keep chasing their dream of playing professionally, but provides a valuable education if a professional playing career doesn’t materialize. Not to mention, the academic and athletic scholarship options that come with playing college soccer go a long way.
BK2 are a college counseling organization who work to support young students in the process of American University recruitment, offering services that will position its students in the best possible scenario. The education of applicants and their professional development are the basis of all their efforts. BK2 helps athletes find the best athletic and academic scholarships available to them, and make the process understandable for families who may not be familiar with the American recruitment system.
We look forward to many more years working with BK2 in achieving academic and athletic success for young players around the world!
