Soccer Operations Seminar

2009 Seminar to feature GuestAssist Fan Communication Service

2009-01-02T11:13:54Z

2009 Seminar to feature GuestAssist Fan Communication Service
Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC will feature industry-leading stadium communication system for safety, security, customer satisfaction

NEW YORK (January 2, 2009) -- When the 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar runs January 20 - 23, 2009 in Los Angeles, GuestAssist by Qtags will be in the starting lineup. Major League Soccer has selected GuestAssist to improve attendees' experience at the annual event, attended by soccer professionals throughout the industry as well as various corporate partners.

GuestAssist provides instant two-way, text messaging-based communication between event attendees and event staff, allowing for improved management of safety, security and guest services. MLS is discussing implementing GuestAssist into events throughout the 2009 season. Seminar participants can register their mobile device now and get the 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar mobile agenda on their phone. To register, simply text MLS to 78247 and Guest Assist will keep you posted with important information and program updates.

"Our soccer fans are our most valuable assets, and providing each guest with the safest and best possible experience watching their team is paramount in our objectives," said Evan Dabby, MLS Senior Director of Operations. "GuestAssist is an industry leader in providing fan-based communication services, with a proven track record in facilities across the National Football League and Major League Baseball."

GuestAssist provides a simple text message code that permits fans to send questions, concerns or requests via their mobile phones to a stadium�s Command and Control Center. The number can be communicated to fans via stadium signage, public address announcements and other means.

A single staff member can handle and respond to incoming requests through GuestAssist�s customized software interface. The operator can send reply messages directly to the fan�s phone to answer questions or obtain more information, and, if necessary, can quickly dispatch safety/security, medical or guest services staff to the appropriate location.

"Attendees at the Soccer Operations Seminar will be able to experience GuestAssist live during the entire event," said Jeremy Konko, VP Operations for Qtags, "and we're excited to share this opportunity with the sport in support of its growing fan base."

The 2008 seminar featured presentations on stadium operations, game operations, game production, security & safety, and staff training, as well as tours of local professional sports facilities. Past participants have included all MLS teams, CONCACAF, United Stated Soccer Federation, The FA, Bundesliga, the United Soccer Leagues (USL), and many other corporate partners and professional associations.

Houston-based Qtags is a member of the Stadium Managers Association and the International Association of Assembly Managers.

About GuestAssist
GuestAssist is a web-based communications service that enables one-to-one text messaging communications between fans and guests and central stadium or facility operations. GuestAssist is currently licensed for use at venues across the U.S. such as:

Yankee Stadium (New York Yankees)
Georgia Dome (Atlanta Falcons)
Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia Eagles)
Cleveland Browns Stadium (Cleveland Browns)
Heinz Field (Pittsburgh Steelers and University of Pittsburgh)
M & T Bank Stadium (Baltimore Ravens)
Giants Stadium (New York Giants and New York Jets)
FedEx Field (Washington Redskins)
Ford Field (Detroit Lions)
Oakland-Alameda Country Coliseum (Oakland Raiders)
Texas Stadium (Dallas Cowboys)
Invesco Field (Denver Broncos)
Ralph Wilson Stadium (Buffalo Bills)
Gillette Stadium (New England Patriots)
Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis Colts)

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. Set to kick off its 14th season in March, the 15 teams in MLS are: Chicago Fire, Colorado Rapids, Chivas USA, Columbus Crew, D.C. United, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Kansas City Wizards, Los Angeles Galaxy, New York Red Bulls, New England Revolution, Real Salt Lake, San Jose Earthquakes, Toronto FC and expansion franchise Seattle Sounders FC. A Philadelphia expansion team will debut in 2010. For more information about MLS, log on to the League's official website at www.MLSnet.com.

About Qtags, LLC
Qtags, LLC provides mobility solutions to stadiums, arenas, conference centers, government agencies, and corporations throughout the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. Learn more at www.GuestAssist.net.

Ardian Group Continues Support of Soccer Industry

2008-12-22T09:26:05Z

Ardian Group Continues Support of Soccer Industry
2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC

NEW YORK (December 22, 2008) -- The 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC announced that the Ardian Group has again signed on as a corporate partner, extending a partnership with Major League Soccer that began in 2003, and has grown in each successive year.

"The League's growing strength and influence has been tremendous and we are excited by the continued growth as it expands in popularity throughout the country. Ardian looks forward to supporting MLS, SUM and the entire soccer community in the future," said Ardian Group, Inc. COO Jeff Shelton.

"Ardian Group always works to meet our deadlines with great professional service. They deliver high quality credentialing at a respectable price," said James Shilkret, Director of Operations for the Los Angeles Galaxy.

In 2008 alone Ardian Group provided accreditation services for major soccer events including MLS Cup 2008, the Pepsi MLS All-Star Game, SuperLiga, InterLiga and many other events.

The fifth edition of the Soccer Operation Seminar presented by CSC will be held January 20-23, 2009 in Los Angeles, CA. Invited guests are encouraged to register at their earliest convenience at http://64.70.38.70/mls/index.aspx since registration will be capped at 100 participants. There is no registration fee thanks to the generous contributions from the seminar's corporate partners (see list of partners at http://www.protatech.com/mls). Any questions regarding the registration process should be directed to Thom Meredith (thommeredith@comcast.net).

About Ardian Group
Since 1999, the Ardian Group, Inc. has provided identity management solutions for every major American sports league (MLS, NFL, MLB, NBA) and a variety of clients in the entertainment and political arenas. As the demand for physical identity management products and services continues to grow, clients of Ardian Group benefit from its extensive experience, innovative technologies and personalized customer service. Ardian Group promotes the best business practices while improving security, marketing, customer rewards, and/or specific identification programs.

New Haven Travel and Manhattan Beach Marriott to Assist 2009 Seminar Attendees

2008-12-16T09:28:39Z

New Haven Travel and Manhattan Beach Marriott to Assist 2009 Seminar Attendees with Travel and Hotel Plans
2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC

NEW YORK (December 16, 2008) -- The 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC (http://www.protatech.com/mls) announced today that for the third straight year New Haven Travel will serve as a corporate partner for the annual conference that will be held January 20-23, 2009 in Los Angeles, CA. In addition, Manhattan Beach Marriott will be the host hotel and provide meeting space.

Approximately 100 people will attend the annual event organized by Major League Soccer that examines trends and operational developments on all levels of the sport of soccer in North America. In its continuing partnership, New Haven Travel, the Connecticut-based industry leader, will again use the expertise of its Soccer Travel Department to assist seminar attendees and guests with their air travel needs.

New Haven Travel is the foremost soccer travel specialist in the U.S., servicing MLS travel needs since the League's inception. New Haven Travel also services the U.S. Soccer Federation, including all of its National Teams, as well as many other soccer organizations, including teams and soccer tour operators. "We are delighted to be the travel service provider of choice to the U.S. soccer community and are very excited by the part that we continue to play in the development and growth of the Soccer Operations Seminar," said Ingrid Saldibar, Vice President of New Haven Travel.

Seminar attendees can contact New Haven Travel toll free at 1-800-243-1806 to inquire about discounted air travel to and from Los Angeles for the January 2009 event.

Located on 27 manicured acres in the upscale South Bay, the Manhattan Beach Marriott will play host to the seminar for the first time. The hotel offers a world class meeting experience in an unpretentious environment, and features a nine-hole, par-three golf course and heated pool. The Manhattan Beach Marriott is also host hotel for the Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) as well as a preferred hotel of the NCAA, NHL and the international soccer community.

Seminar attendees must reserve hotel rooms by contacting the Manhattan Beach Marriott toll free at 1-800-228-9290. The room rate for the 2009 seminar is $159.00; be sure to mention "Soccer Operations Seminar" when making a reservation.

About New Haven Travel Service
For more than 40 years New Haven Travel has been dedicated to providing the best possible full service travel solutions to its clients in the U.S. A full service travel agency headquartered in New Haven, CT and, since 2003, a division of ATP International, New Haven Travel has specialized in U.S. soccer related travel for almost 25 years, counting USSF, USASA, USYSA and MLS among its soccer clients in the U.S. Through its relationship with ATP in Europe, New Haven Travel has been able to further strengthen its ties to the soccer world, as ATP services a range of soccer related clients in Europe including the Football Association, a number of Premier League teams, the Professional Footballer's Association, and the League Manager's Association in the UK and AFC Ajax in Holland.

About Manhattan Beach Marriott
Situated at 1400 Parkview Avenue in Manhattan Beach, just 3 miles south of the Los Angeles International Airport, the Manhattan Beach Marriott is where business and leisure meet. The hotel is ideally located within walking distance to area businesses, restaurants and shopping, and just minutes from Southern California's premier beaches. Manhattan Beach Marriott is doing its part to keep California GREEN and is proud to announce that it is an Energy Star Rated hotel, as well as smoke-free.

Event Registration Begins as The Home Depot Center, LA Galaxy and Chivas USA Join Forces

2008-12-09T08:59:56Z

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2009 Event Registration Begins as The Home Depot Center, LA Galaxy and Chivas USA Join Forces to Support Seminar 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC
� � � � � � � � � � � � NEW YORK (December 9, 2008) -- The 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC announced that The Home Depot Center, Los Angeles Galaxy and CD Chivas USA will work collaboratively to support the seminar. The Home Depot Center will host the second day of the seminar, and operations personnel from the Galaxy and Chivas USA will lend their expertise to the event. The fifth annual event will take place January 20 - 23, 2009, in Los Angeles, CA. � � � � � � � � � � � � Registration is free to accepted registrants, courtesy of the corporate partners who generously contribute to fund the seminar initiatives and events (see the 2009 agenda at http://64.70.38.70/mls/Agenda09.aspx). Attendance will be capped at one hundred, so interested individuals should register at this first opportunity (http://www.protatech.com/mls/registration.htm). Applicants should expect to receive a response to a registration request within 72 hours. Any questions regarding the registration process should be directed to Thom Meredith (thommeredith@comcast.net). � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � "The Home Depot Center is proud to partner with MLS, the LA Galaxy and Chivas USA to host the 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar and welcome team operations and stadium personnel from around the country to Carson,” said The Home Depot Center Vice President, Operations Kyle Waters. "As we continue to look for ways to improve the experience of Home Depot Center soccer fans, this summit will give us an opportunity to not only share our venue with other MLS team personnel, but learn from them as well." � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � As part of their contributions, the Galaxy and Chivas USA will host hospitality events and be involved in all aspects of the seminar. "We are proud to co-host this event together with The Home Depot Center and the LA Galaxy," said Chivas USA Vice President of Soccer Operations Stephen Hamilton. "The Operations Seminar provides a great opportunity to share best practices as we continue to improve our gameday experience for Chivas USA and all our fans." "The LA Galaxy is honored to partner with MLS for the 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar. We look forward to being involved in open discussions of important issues that impact the future of professional soccer," said James Shilkret, Los Angeles Galaxy Director of Operations. � � � � � � � � � � � � About The Home Depot Center The Home Depot Center is southern California’s home of world-class competition and training facilities for amateur, Olympic, collegiate and professional athletes. The $150 million, privately financed facility was developed and is operated by AEG on the campus of California State University, Dominguez Hills in Carson, California. The Home Depot Center features an 8,000-seat tennis stadium, a 27,000-seat stadium for soccer, rugby and other athletic competitions and outdoor concerts, a 10,000-seat facility for track & field and lacrosse, the ADT Event Center (a 2,450-seat indoor velodrome) and other facilities for softball, baseball, beach volleyball, basketball and other sports. The Home Depot Center is home to three professional sports teams -- Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA, and Major League Lacrosse’s (MLL) Los Angeles Riptide.�Named an Official U.S. Olympic Training Site, The Home Depot Center is also home of the United States Tennis Association’s (USTA) High Performance Training Center and is the national team training headquarters for the U.S. Soccer Federation. The David Beckham Academy for youth soccer, Andre Agassi’s Safe Passage All-Stars at-risk youth tennis program and Athletes’ Performance’s training center for elite and professional athletes are all based at The Home Depot Center. �For more information, please visit www.homedepotcenter.com. � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � About LA Galaxy One of the ten founding franchises of Major League Soccer, the LA Galaxy won the MLS Cup in 2002 and 2005, and also claimed the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2001 and 2005. Many outstanding players have suited up for the Galaxy, most notably English star David Beckham, U.S. all-time leading scorer Landon Donovan and longtime U.S. national teamer Cobi Jones. � � � � � � � � � � � � About Chivas USA Club Deportivo Chivas USA, the only Mexican-owned team in major pro sports in the U.S., entered Major League Soccer as an expansion franchise for the 2005 season. The team qualified for the playoffs in only its second season, and continued its success by winning the Western Conference regular season championship in 2007. Chivas USA is sister team to the legendary CD Guadalajara of Mexico, popularly known as Chivas. � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �

2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC

2008-09-29T08:53:19Z

2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC
CSC Continues Support with Title Sponsorship

NEW YORK (September 29, 2008) - The 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC announced its fifth annual event will take place January 20 - 23 in Los Angeles, CA.

"We are excited for this opportunity to increase our commitment to support soccer and provide our expertise to help the sport grow in a safe and fan-friendly manner," said Mark Glaser, CSC Vice President. CSC specializes in event services for entertainment and sporting events throughout the United States and Australia, and has been a sponsor of the seminar since 2006.

Major League Soccer provides an example of soccer's focus on security. Each year, the League conducts reviews of emergency procedures and teams engage local officials in table-top discussions to prepare for emergency scenarios. "Soccer organizers strive to provide fans, players and spectators an environment within which they can enjoy a safe and entertaining soccer experience. CSC is a perfect partner to support this mission," said Evan Dabby, MLS Senior Director of Operations.

The 2008 Seminar featured presentations on stadium operations, game operations, game production, security & safety, and staff training, as well as tours of local professional sports facilities. Past participants have included all 14 MLS teams, CONCACAF, United Stated Soccer Federation, The FA, The Bundesliga, the United Soccer Leagues (USL), US Club Soccer and many other corporate partners and professional associations.

Details about travel, transportation and securing a place at the 2009 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC will be posted on the event's website in the near future. In the interim, information about the 2008 event is available at www.protatech.com/mls.

About CSC
For over 40 years, CSC has remained the leader in crowd management and entertainment security, and currently provides services to numerous professional teams in the MLB, MLS, NBA, NFL, and NHL. Under the direction of its founder and CEO, Damon Zumwalt, CSC provides staffing for thousands of events each year and remains unparalleled in its experience and expertise. CSC has also provided services to the world’s most prestigious events, including 29 Super Bowls, the 1994 World Cup, the 1999 Women’s World Cup and six Olympic Games. For more information about CSC, log onto the company’s official website at www.contemporaryservices.com.

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. In its 13th season, the 14 teams in MLS are: the Chicago Fire, Colorado Rapids,Chivas USA, Columbus Crew, D.C. United, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Kansas City Wizards, Los Angeles Galaxy, New York Red Bulls, New England Revolution, Real Salt Lake, San Jose Earthquakes and Toronto FC. Seattle Sounders FC will join the League in 2009 and a Philadelphia expansion team will debut in 2010. For more information about MLS, log on to the League's official website at www.MLSnet.com.

Soccer Operations Seminar 2008: TEAM Coalition, Anheuser-Busch, and ARAMARK Promote Responsibility with MLS

2008-02-06T13:29:07Z

For Immediate Release
MLS Contact: Evan Dabby (212) 450-1242
www.MLSnet.com

TEAM Coalition, Anheuser-Busch, and ARAMARK Promote Responsibility with MLS
2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC

NEW YORK (Wednesday, February 6, 2008) -- The 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC (http://sport.rice.edu) announced the continuation of the partnership involving Major League Soccer (MLS), Techniques for Effective Alcohol Management (TEAM) Coalition, Anheuser-Busch, the official beer of MLS, and ARAMARK, concessionaire for three MLS stadiums, to promote the designated-driver program at all MLS stadiums. "Responsible fan behavior is a priority for the league, the teams, and all the organizations working together to provide the best fan experience possible at MLS games," said Don Garber, MLS commissioner.

The Responsibility Has Its Rewards campaign promotes positive fan behavior, responsible alcohol consumption, and traffic safety throughout the MLS season. Fans who have demonstrated their commitment to responsibility by pledging to be designated drivers at MLS stadiums have the opportunity to win trips to MLS Cup and the MLS All-Star Game. "This promotion is an opportunity for MLS to show support for the teams' efforts in coordination with the concessionaires, brewers, and beer wholesalers to encourage responsible fan behavior. And for the fans, it is a great reminder that responsibility really does have its rewards," said Jill Pepper, executive director of the TEAM Coalition.

Most MLS stadiums offer designated driver programs operated in conjunction with the concessionaire, the local beer wholesaler, Anheuser-Busch, and TEAM Coalition. The Budweiser Good Sport fan management program links the fans' loyalty to their favorite MLS teams with a commitment to responsibility.

"Tying Responsibility Has Its Rewards to our season-long Good Sport program makes everyone a winner," said Carol Clark, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility for Anheuser-Busch Inc. "We're pleased to work with TEAM Coalition, Major League Soccer and all the teams to recognize our fans who look out for each other and make a designated driver part of their game plan. When it comes to preventing drunk driving, we're all part of the team."

ARAMARK's Serves You Right program sends a similar message to fans on behalf of the industry's leading concessionaire. As a founding member of TEAM Coalition and as part of our commitment to those we serve, we have established and continue to maintain the highest standards in the industry for the safe service of alcohol."

About TEAM Coalition
TEAM Coalition is an alliance of professional and collegiate sports, entertainment facilities, concessionaires, stadium service providers, the beer industry, broadcasters, governmental traffic safety experts, and others working together to promote responsible drinking and positive fan behavior at sports and entertainment facilities.
http://www.teamcoalition.org

About Budweiser Good Sport
Good Sport is a comprehensive action plan for influencing fan behavior at sporting events. Introduced in 1986, Anheuser-Busch created the program to help stadium operators, team owners and concessionaires promote positive fan behavior, responsible drinking and the use of designated drivers at sporting venues.
http://www.beeresponsible.com

About ARAMARK Sports and Entertainment
ARAMARK Sports and Entertainment helps clients deliver the complete experience at recreation areas, convention centers, sports and entertainment venues, concert venues, museums, zoos and other popular tourist attractions. ARAMARK provides concessions, event planning, premium banquet and catering, caf�s, retail merchandise and novelty sales, and recreational and lodging services to millions annually. ARAMARK helps clients enhance the overall experience with a complete line of facility services -- ranging from operations maintenance, venue cleaning and grounds maintenance to strategic and technical services such as energy management and capital planning.
http://www.aramarkentertainment.com

Soccer Operations Seminar 2008: Daktronics Renews Commitment to Soccer

2008-02-05T10:18:47Z

For Immediate Release
MLS Contact: Evan Dabby (212) 450-1242
www.MLSnet.com

Daktronics Renews Commitment to Soccer
2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC

NEW YORK (Tuesday, February 5, 2008) -- The 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC (http://sport.rice.edu/archives.cfm?doc_id=10043) announced that Daktronics has returned as a corporate partner for the third consecutive year. The seminar will take place February 11th - 14th in Houston, TX with a record 100 participants.

"Daktronics is pleased to again help sponsor and be a part of the 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar," said Jay Parker, National Sales Manager for Daktronics Large Sports Venue division. "We strive to deliver the very best integrated video, scoring and sound systems that engage fans and enrich the game day experience at each and every soccer match. Our customers appreciate our experience at MLS facilities and other venues, our broad product line, and our ability to combine those components into a single integrated system."

Daktronics soccer scoreboards keep score for MLS teams like the New England Revolution (Gillette Stadium), the Columbus Crew (Crew Stadium), Toronto FC (BMO Field), the Colorado Rapids (Dick's Sporting Goods Park), the New York Red Bulls (Giants Stadium), the LA Galaxy & Chivas USA (Home Depot Center), FC Dallas (Pizza Hut Park), DC United (RFK Stadium), Real Salt Lake (Rice Eccles Stadium) and the Chicago Fire (Toyota Park). Daktronics has also installed scoring and/or display equipment in many European countries as well as at a number of American universities.

About Daktronics, Inc.
Daktronics offers the most complete line of integrated electronic scoring, video and sound systems available, including scoreboards for all sports and all levels of competition, and the latest large screen systems incorporating state-of-the-art LED (light emitting diode) technology. Daktronics proven control technologies enable users to easily create, import and display text, graphics, real time data, animation and video with high brightness, high contrast and accurate color reproduction. Daktronics Sportsound� division designs and builds custom audio systems that deliver the highest quality sound, enhancing the game day experience and entertainment value at all your events. Daktronics scoreboards and displays are currently used at a majority of MLS, MLB, NFL, NBA and NHL facilities.

Soccer Operations Seminar: Ardian Group Accredits Growth in Soccer Business

2008-01-23T13:56:48Z

Ardian Group Accredits Growth in Soccer Business
2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC

NEW YORK (January 23, 2008) � The 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC announced that the Ardian Group has signed on as a corporate partner, extending a partnership with Major League Soccer that began in 2003 and has grown in each successive year. The 2008 Seminar will take place in Houston, TX from February 11th � 14th.

�Ardian began as a credential vendor for Major League Soccer in 2003. The League�s growing strength and influence has been tremendous and we are excited by the continued growth as it expands in popularity throughout the country. Ardian looks forward to supporting MLS, SUM and the entire soccer community in the future,� said Ardian Group, Inc. COO Jeff Shelton.

�Creative layouts including credentials, event passes, lanyards, etc. are crucial elements provided by Ardian Group to our club. Ardian Group works closely with us to understand our vision and replicate it with perfection,� said Paul Byrne, Houston Dynamo Sr. Director of Operations.

In 2007 alone Ardian Group provided accreditation services for major soccer events including MLS Cup 2007, the Sierra Mist MLS All-Star Game, SuperLiga, CONCACAF Gold Cup, InterLiga and many others.

For those who haven't already registered for the 2008 Soccer Operation Seminar presented by CSC, invited guests are strongly encouraged to register at http://sport.rice.edu. Registration for the 2008 seminar will be capped at 100 invited participants. There is no registration fee thanks to the generous contributions from the seminar's corporate partners (see full list of partners at http://sport.rice.edu/). Applicants will receive a response to a registration request within 72 hours. Any questions regarding the registration process should be directed to Evan Dabby (evan.dabby@mlsnet.com).

About Ardian Group
The Ardian Group, Inc. has provided identity management solutions since 1999. Ardian has worked with every major sports league (MLS, NFL, MLB, NBA) and with a variety of clients in the entertainment and political arenas to improve access control badging at a host of major events. As the demand for physical Identity Management products and services continues to grow, education and offering simple effective solutions is essential.�Ardian Group provides premium products and services in support of organizations in need of identification tools. Clients benefit from our extensive experience, innovative technologies and personalized customer service. We promote the best business practices while improving security, marketing, customer rewards, and/or specific identification programs.

Soccer Operations Seminar 2008: Industry Leader New Haven Travel to Again Assist Houston Attendees

2007-10-16T15:53:22Z

Industry Leader New Haven Travel to Again Assist Houston Attendees with 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar Travel and Hotel Plans

2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC

NEW YORK (October 16, 2007) � The 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC announced today that for the second straight year New Haven Travel will act as a corporate partner for the annual conference that will be held February 11-14 in Houston, Texas.

In this continuing partnership, the New Haven, Connecticut-based industry leader will again use the expertise of its Soccer Travel Department to assist seminar attendees and guests with their individual air travel and hotel reservation needs. Over 100 people will attend the annual conference organized by Major League Soccer that examines trends and operational developments on all levels of the sport of soccer in North America. The link for seminar attendees is http://sport.rice.edu/.

"New Haven Travel is immensely proud of its continued relationship with Major League Soccer, US Soccer and a number of other important American soccer organizations. We will continue to provide the American soccer community as well as all of our other clients a complete range of travel services and solutions to teams, staff, executives and fans,� said Ingrid Saldibar, Vice President of New Haven Travel Service. New Haven Travel is the foremost soccer travel specialist in the U.S., servicing MLS' travel needs since the League's inception. New Haven Travel also services the U.S. Soccer Federation, including all of its National Teams, as well as many other soccer organizations, including teams and soccer tour operators. "New Haven Travel has quite literally grown alongside soccer in the U.S.� said Saldibar. �We are delighted to be the travel service provider of choice to the U.S. soccer community and are very excited by the part that we continue to play in the development and growth of the Soccer Operations Seminar."

Seminar attendees can contact New Haven Travel toll free at 1-800-243-1806 to reserve hotel rooms at the $ 120.00 single/double rate and inquire about discounted air travel to and from Houston for the February 2008 event. The seminar�s host hotel is the Hyatt Regency Houston, 1200 Louisiana Street, Houston, TX 77002, T: (713) 654-1234; F: (713) 658-8606.

About New Haven Travel Service

For over 40 years New Haven Travel has been dedicated to providing the best possible full service travel solutions to its clients in the US. A full service travel agency headquartered in New Haven, CT and, since 2003, a division of ATP International, New Haven Travel has specialized in U.S. soccer related travel for almost 25 years, counting USSF, USASA, USYSA and MLS amongst its soccer clients in the US. Through its relationship with ATP in Europe, New Haven Travel has been able to further strengthen its ties to the soccer world, as ATP services a range of soccer related clients in Europe including the Football Association, a number of Premier League teams, the Professional Footballer's Association, and the League Manager's Association in the UK and AFC Ajax in Holland.

Soccer Operations Seminar 2008: Event Registration Begins as Houston Dynamo & Rice University Join Forces

2007-10-04T00:18:06Z

Event Registration Begins as Houston Dynamo & Rice University Join Forces to Support Seminar

2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC

NEW YORK (October 4, 2007)� The 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC announced that the Houston Dynamo has renewed its corporate partnership for 2008, and Rice University�s Sport Management Program will again provide event management support.

Rice�s Sport Management Program has created an event website (http://sport.rice.edu/archives.cfm?doc_id=10043) to facilitate event registration. Registration is free to accepted registrants, courtesy of the corporate partners who generously contribute to fund the seminar initiatives and events (see list of partners at http://cohesion.rice.edu/humanities/sportmanagement/archives.cfm?doc_id=10044). The 2008 Seminar attendance will be capped at one hundred, so interested individuals should register at this first opportunity (http://sport.rice.edu/archives.cfm?doc_id=10089). Beginning October 1, applicants should expect to receive a response to a registration request within 72 hours. Any questions regarding the registration process should be directed to Evan Dabby (evan.dabby@mlsnet.com).

�Our organization is proud to once again host this growing seminar. We will utilize this event to help us continue to produce the best possible product for our local fan base,� said Paul Byrne, Sr. Director of Operations for the Houston Dynamo. As part of its contributions, the Dynamo will host hospitality events and lend its expertise towards event operations.

"We are very excited to partner with Major League Soccer and the Houston Dynamo in preparation of the 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC. This is a great chance for our students to work hand in hand with a professional sports league,� said Dr. Clark Haptonstall, director of Rice University�s undergraduate sport management program. �The 2008 Operations Seminar will be the largest in history and our students are excited for the opportunity.� Several current and former Rice University students will be involved in various aspects of the production of the 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar. Responsibilities delegated to the Rice contingent will range from communications and public relations to website preparation and event hospitality services.

About the Houston Dynamo

The Houston Dynamo won the 2006 MLS Cup in only its first year of existence. From 1996 through 2005, the team played in San Jose, California, where under the name of Earthquakes the team won two MLS Cups (2001, 2003). The team boasts many talented and experienced players, among them 2006 All-Star Honda Most Valuable Player Dwayne De Rosario, 2006 MLS Cup MVP and U.S. National Team member Brian Ching, and All-Star and U.S. National Team member Ricardo Clark. The Houston Dynamo plays at Robertson Stadium, located on the campus of the University of Houston. With a seating capacity of 32,000 people, the home of the Houston Cougars� football and women's soccer teams has also been the venue for many international soccer matches, including four dates of the inaugural SuperLiga tournament.

About Rice University

Rice University, located in Houston, Texas adjacent to the Texas Medical Center, is considered one of the United States� elite private institutions of higher learning. The university is known for its successful research undertakings and the quality of undergraduate education that it provides. In its 2007 college guide, Newsweek named Rice University one of the �New Ivies.� Rice is also consistently featured in the top tier rankings in publications such as U.S. News and World Report and the Princeton Review for its overall academic experience, value, and standout programs in architecture, engineering, management, and music. Rice also boasts an unrivaled undergraduate sports management program, with course offerings and internship opportunities with Houston�s many major sports teams. Graduates of the program are working in MLS, MLB, the NHL and the NBA.

Soccer Operations Seminar 2008: BearCom Wireless Communicates Passion for Soccer

2007-08-15T13:12:22Z

BearCom Wireless Communicates Passion for Soccer

2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC

NEW YORK (Wednesday, August 1, 2007) - The 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC announced that BearCom has returned on as a corporate partner following its title partnership of the 2006 Soccer Operations Seminar and corporate sponsorship in 2007.

"BearCom is proud to continue its sponsorship of the Soccer Operations Seminar," said Darren Scruggs, National Account Manager to MLS. "By using the latest wireless communications technologies, we are pleased to be able to support the operations teams that are so critical to the success of the sport of soccer."

Veteran American soccer event organizer Thom Meredith echoed that sentiment. "BearCom personnel across the country clearly understand the events business. They have a number of new products that ensures efficient and problem-free communication for event organizers regardless of the type of event planned and no one provides this service more effectively and economically than does BearCom."

As part of the agreement, BearCom will provide wireless communications for the seminar and display equipment for the attendees to sample. Additional details about securing a place at the 2008 Soccer Operations Seminar presented by CSC will be distributed in the near future. In the interim, any questions may be directed to evan.dabby@mlsnet.com.

About BearCom

BearCom provides a broad line of high-performance wireless communications products, services, and complete mobility solutions from major manufacturers such as Motorola, Icom, Tekk, Sprint Nextel, Vocera, Firetide, Telex, Sony, and more. BearCom sells, rents, and services two-way radios, cellular phones, smart phones, mobile broadband cards, wearable VoIP devices, pagers, mesh broadband networks, point-to-point transport systems, IP video surveillance systems, remote call boxes, and emergency communications solutions. Thousands of commercial and government customers depend on BearCom to keep them connected -- everywhere, all the time. Founded in 1981, BearCom is America's only nationwide dealer of wireless communications equipment, serves customers from 26 branch offices located throughout the nation, has several affiliated offices around the world, and employs more than 400 people. BearCom is headquartered in the Dallas, Texas area. For more information, visit www.BearCom.com.