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CyberRays and Kelme sign historic women's sports agreement

March 13, 2003 - Women's United Soccer Association (WUSA)
San Jose CyberRays News Release


SAN JOSE (March 13, 2003) – The San Jose CyberRays and Kelme, the Spain-based manufacturer of soccer uniforms and shoes, have entered into a multi-year agreement that is the first of its kind in women's professional sports.

Under the agreement, Kelme – supplier to such top European soccer clubs such as Real Madrid and Torino for three decades – will become the CyberRays' official uniform supplier. Kelme will also feature the CyberRays as the focal point of a nationwide marketing campaign to enhance its brand in the United States, the first time a women's team has been chosen as the primary marketing vehicle for a company's U.S. expansion.

``This will be a national program in which the CyberRays are the center of attention,'' said Duarte Da Silveira, managing director of Kelme USA. ``Our goal is to create the CyberRays as America's team in women's soccer.''

CyberRays general manager Marlene Bjornsrud said: ``This is an historic agreement in women's sports. The CyberRays are excited to work with an experienced, dynamic company like Kelme in establishing national recognition for both our brands.''

The CyberRays-Kelme agreement includes:

The design of a custom-made CyberRays uniform, which the team will introduce for the 2003 WUSA season opening April 5.

The use of the CyberRays logo and players in Kelme advertising and marketing materials nationwide.

National sales of CyberRays logo merchandise, including replica jerseys.

The input of CyberRays staff and players in the development and testing of a women's soccer clothing line – including the jackets and sleveless polo shirts the team will wear while traveling – to be sold worldwide.

Kelme branding and advertising opportunities in Spartan Stadium and in promotional efforts with youth soccer and charitable causes.

Kelme, based in the Alicante region of southern Spain, is a sports company known for high quality handmade soccer boots produced in its own factory. Kelme has focused solely on soccer in the United States market, which it entered in the early 1990s, and its line has grown to include a wide array of unique and functional soccer products including the famous Team backpack. Kelme's U.S. headquarters are in Miami, Fla.

The CyberRays open their 2003 season at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 5 against the Philadelphia Charge in Spartan Stadium. Season tickets are on sale now at CyberRays Tower, 1991 Park Ave., in San Jose or online at http://www..sjcyberrays.com/tickets/tix_seasontix.html.

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Women's United Soccer Association Stories from March 13, 2003


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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