The Australian Soccer Association (ASA) says the deal is a ‘significant new partnership’ and will see the brand become the official supplier of apparel, footwear and ball to ASA.
Said ASA chief executive John O’Neill: “As we begin to re-vitalise our organisation to lead the whole of soccer in Australia and help the Socceroos qualify for the FIFA World Cup in Germany 2006, it is appropriate that we establish strategic partnerships with leading global companies, especially when they are so closely associated with our sport around the world, with some of the most famous soccer countries and clubs.
“ASA will continue to look at ways of capitalising on commercial opportunities that will help us grow soccer within Australia, both at the elite level through all our national teams and via the burgeoning grassroots numbers, and with Nike now on board we can work closely together to further develop initiatives and programs to help us achieve our goals.”
Adds Nike Pacific managing director Tony Balfour: “This is an era of change which Nike is excited to be a part of. We have been keen to have an association with soccer in Australia due to our global commitment to the game and the enormous popularity of the sport at a grassroots level.
“The opportunity arose and the timing is perfect for us to help the game fulfil its potential in Australia. This partnership is significantly more than a traditional sponsorship arrangement. Nike and Australian Soccer will be working with a shared sense of purpose and a united vision for the game which includes the development of a grassroots programme.”
The Australian team will first wear Nike gear when they play in London, against South Africa, on March 30.
