ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), in its 31st Board meeting, introduced a series of transformative reforms to elevate the governance and operational standards of sports federations in the country.
Among the key measures approved are the implementation of the Pakistan Code of Ethics and Governance in Sports (PCEGS), the establishment of an independent Election Commission, and the creation of a dedicated tribunal for sports-related disputes. These initiatives align with the principles of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Charter. The meeting, chaired by Rana Sanaullah Khan, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Inter-Provincial Coordination and President of the PSB, took significant steps to ensure transparency, integrity, and accountability in sports management. These reforms reflect international best practices already adopted by countries like the UK, Australia, and Switzerland.
The key decisions approved during the meeting include Pakistan Code of Ethics and Governance in Sports (PCEGS): This framework aims to ensure transparency and integrity by addressing corruption, nepotism, and doping within sports federations. It aligns governance with national laws and international standards.
Independent Election Commission: A new commission will oversee all sports federation elections, ensuring free, fair, and transparent processes. This step fulfills directives from the Islamabad High Court and adheres to IOC principles.
Dedicated Tribunal for Sports Governance Disputes:The tribunal will handle disputes, complaints, and appeals related to sports governance, offering impartial and timely resolutions to maintain smooth operations within federations.
Model Constitution for Federations: Sports federations are mandated to align their governance frameworks with the IOC Charter and their respective international federation structures, reinforcing transparency and autonomy.
Enhanced Athlete Rewards and Gold Card Introduction:The revised cash reward policy increases incentives for international gold medalists, with up to PKR 10 million as a prize. Medal-winning athletes will also receive Gold Cards, granting access to PSB facilities nationwide for enhanced training and resources.
The Board members, including representatives from the Higher Education Commission, Pakistan Tennis Federation, and Pakistan Billiards & Snooker Association, unanimously supported the reforms. However, President POA Syed Mohammad Abid Qadri Gillani opposed the implementation of the Code of Ethics, Election Commission, and Tribunal, citing concerns about their alignment with IOC governance principles.
The PSB expressed confidence that these measures would promote good governance, elevate Pakistan’s sports standards, and provide athletes with the support they need to compete on international platforms.
(MENAFN– Newsfile Corp)
Phoenix, Arizona–(Newsfile Corp. – November 22, 2024) – Vuzola, an online retailer committed to making luxury both accessible and practical, has introduced a new lifestyle collection to meet the demands of everyday life. This expansion marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to diversify its product line with innovative solutions in three key categories: gadgets, fitness essentials, and outdoor gear. It reflects Vuzola’s mission to adapt to changing consumer lifestyles by offering products that prioritize functionality, durability, and versatility.
Vuzola
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
Highlights of the New Collection
The collection features products that address the rise in outdoor recreation, demand for multi-functional gadgets, and the growing interest in fitness solutions that fit into busy lifestyles:
Gadgets: The lineup includes tools designed to simplify daily routines and enhance efficiency.
Fitness Essentials: Catering to the rising trend of at-home and on-the-go fitness.
Outdoor Gear: Built for durability and portability.
Improving Customer Experience
To complement the launch, Vuzola has enhanced its platform to provide a smoother and more transparent shopping experience. These updates include expanded product descriptions that highlight key features and benefits, verified customer reviews for added credibility, and tailored shopping guides to assist with purchasing decisions. Additionally, the website now features improved navigation, faster load times, and a simplified checkout process.
Dedicated customer support is available to address inquiries, reflecting Vuzola’s commitment to delivering a user-friendly, efficient, and trustworthy e-commerce experience.
Explore the Collection
For more information about Vuzola and to explore its growing collection, please visit .
About Vuzola
Vuzola is a premium lifestyle brand dedicated to making luxury accessible. Offering a curated selection of high-quality essentials sourced across tech, fashion, home, and outdoor categories, Vuzola focuses on providing products that balance practicality and design. The company is committed to empowering its customers with products that enhance their lives, backed by exceptional customer service.
MENAFN22112024004218003983ID1108915929
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
(MENAFN– Newsfile Corp)
Phoenix, Arizona–(Newsfile Corp. – November 22, 2024) – Vuzola, an online retailer committed to making luxury both accessible and practical, has introduced a new lifestyle collection to meet the demands of everyday life. This expansion marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to diversify its product line with innovative solutions in three key categories: gadgets, fitness essentials, and outdoor gear. It reflects Vuzola’s mission to adapt to changing consumer lifestyles by offering products that prioritize functionality, durability, and versatility.
Vuzola
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
Highlights of the New Collection
The collection features products that address the rise in outdoor recreation, demand for multi-functional gadgets, and the growing interest in fitness solutions that fit into busy lifestyles:
Gadgets: The lineup includes tools designed to simplify daily routines and enhance efficiency.
Fitness Essentials: Catering to the rising trend of at-home and on-the-go fitness.
Outdoor Gear: Built for durability and portability.
Improving Customer Experience
To complement the launch, Vuzola has enhanced its platform to provide a smoother and more transparent shopping experience. These updates include expanded product descriptions that highlight key features and benefits, verified customer reviews for added credibility, and tailored shopping guides to assist with purchasing decisions. Additionally, the website now features improved navigation, faster load times, and a simplified checkout process.
Dedicated customer support is available to address inquiries, reflecting Vuzola’s commitment to delivering a user-friendly, efficient, and trustworthy e-commerce experience.
Explore the Collection
For more information about Vuzola and to explore its growing collection, please visit .
About Vuzola
Vuzola is a premium lifestyle brand dedicated to making luxury accessible. Offering a curated selection of high-quality essentials sourced across tech, fashion, home, and outdoor categories, Vuzola focuses on providing products that balance practicality and design. The company is committed to empowering its customers with products that enhance their lives, backed by exceptional customer service.
MENAFN22112024004218003983ID1108915929
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
(MENAFN– Newsfile Corp)
Phoenix, Arizona–(Newsfile Corp. – November 22, 2024) – Vuzola, an online retailer committed to making luxury both accessible and practical, has introduced a new lifestyle collection to meet the demands of everyday life. This expansion marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to diversify its product line with innovative solutions in three key categories: gadgets, fitness essentials, and outdoor gear. It reflects Vuzola’s mission to adapt to changing consumer lifestyles by offering products that prioritize functionality, durability, and versatility.
Vuzola
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
Highlights of the New Collection
The collection features products that address the rise in outdoor recreation, demand for multi-functional gadgets, and the growing interest in fitness solutions that fit into busy lifestyles:
Gadgets: The lineup includes tools designed to simplify daily routines and enhance efficiency.
Fitness Essentials: Catering to the rising trend of at-home and on-the-go fitness.
Outdoor Gear: Built for durability and portability.
Improving Customer Experience
To complement the launch, Vuzola has enhanced its platform to provide a smoother and more transparent shopping experience. These updates include expanded product descriptions that highlight key features and benefits, verified customer reviews for added credibility, and tailored shopping guides to assist with purchasing decisions. Additionally, the website now features improved navigation, faster load times, and a simplified checkout process.
Dedicated customer support is available to address inquiries, reflecting Vuzola’s commitment to delivering a user-friendly, efficient, and trustworthy e-commerce experience.
Explore the Collection
For more information about Vuzola and to explore its growing collection, please visit .
About Vuzola
Vuzola is a premium lifestyle brand dedicated to making luxury accessible. Offering a curated selection of high-quality essentials sourced across tech, fashion, home, and outdoor categories, Vuzola focuses on providing products that balance practicality and design. The company is committed to empowering its customers with products that enhance their lives, backed by exceptional customer service.
MENAFN22112024004218003983ID1108915929
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
(MENAFN– Newsfile Corp)
Phoenix, Arizona–(Newsfile Corp. – November 22, 2024) – Vuzola, an online retailer committed to making luxury both accessible and practical, has introduced a new lifestyle collection to meet the demands of everyday life. This expansion marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to diversify its product line with innovative solutions in three key categories: gadgets, fitness essentials, and outdoor gear. It reflects Vuzola’s mission to adapt to changing consumer lifestyles by offering products that prioritize functionality, durability, and versatility.
Vuzola
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
Highlights of the New Collection
The collection features products that address the rise in outdoor recreation, demand for multi-functional gadgets, and the growing interest in fitness solutions that fit into busy lifestyles:
Gadgets: The lineup includes tools designed to simplify daily routines and enhance efficiency.
Fitness Essentials: Catering to the rising trend of at-home and on-the-go fitness.
Outdoor Gear: Built for durability and portability.
Improving Customer Experience
To complement the launch, Vuzola has enhanced its platform to provide a smoother and more transparent shopping experience. These updates include expanded product descriptions that highlight key features and benefits, verified customer reviews for added credibility, and tailored shopping guides to assist with purchasing decisions. Additionally, the website now features improved navigation, faster load times, and a simplified checkout process.
Dedicated customer support is available to address inquiries, reflecting Vuzola’s commitment to delivering a user-friendly, efficient, and trustworthy e-commerce experience.
Explore the Collection
For more information about Vuzola and to explore its growing collection, please visit .
About Vuzola
Vuzola is a premium lifestyle brand dedicated to making luxury accessible. Offering a curated selection of high-quality essentials sourced across tech, fashion, home, and outdoor categories, Vuzola focuses on providing products that balance practicality and design. The company is committed to empowering its customers with products that enhance their lives, backed by exceptional customer service.
MENAFN22112024004218003983ID1108915929
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
(MENAFN– Newsfile Corp)
Phoenix, Arizona–(Newsfile Corp. – November 22, 2024) – Vuzola, an online retailer committed to making luxury both accessible and practical, has introduced a new lifestyle collection to meet the demands of everyday life. This expansion marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to diversify its product line with innovative solutions in three key categories: gadgets, fitness essentials, and outdoor gear. It reflects Vuzola’s mission to adapt to changing consumer lifestyles by offering products that prioritize functionality, durability, and versatility.
Vuzola
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
Highlights of the New Collection
The collection features products that address the rise in outdoor recreation, demand for multi-functional gadgets, and the growing interest in fitness solutions that fit into busy lifestyles:
Gadgets: The lineup includes tools designed to simplify daily routines and enhance efficiency.
Fitness Essentials: Catering to the rising trend of at-home and on-the-go fitness.
Outdoor Gear: Built for durability and portability.
Improving Customer Experience
To complement the launch, Vuzola has enhanced its platform to provide a smoother and more transparent shopping experience. These updates include expanded product descriptions that highlight key features and benefits, verified customer reviews for added credibility, and tailored shopping guides to assist with purchasing decisions. Additionally, the website now features improved navigation, faster load times, and a simplified checkout process.
Dedicated customer support is available to address inquiries, reflecting Vuzola’s commitment to delivering a user-friendly, efficient, and trustworthy e-commerce experience.
Explore the Collection
For more information about Vuzola and to explore its growing collection, please visit .
About Vuzola
Vuzola is a premium lifestyle brand dedicated to making luxury accessible. Offering a curated selection of high-quality essentials sourced across tech, fashion, home, and outdoor categories, Vuzola focuses on providing products that balance practicality and design. The company is committed to empowering its customers with products that enhance their lives, backed by exceptional customer service.
MENAFN22112024004218003983ID1108915929
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Wow, Oklahoma State really started their wrestling season with a bang! And guess who was front and center to break it all down? That’s right—Olympic champ David Taylor. Riding the wave of energy from the opening weekend, Taylor dove into everything, from individual performances to team dynamics, leaving no stone unturned.
His insights really struck a chord with Cowboy fans. Taylor praised the squad’s effort but seemed particularly impressed with their team chemistry. It’s clear he sees something special brewing—something that aligns perfectly with his “always improving” philosophy. His reflections not only celebrated their victory but also set the tone for what lies ahead on their journey.
Dustin Plott embodies the “getting better” philosophy
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Now, let’s talk about Dustin Plott. David Taylor had a lot to say about him. Plott is one of those standout wrestlers for Oklahoma State, and Taylor couldn’t stop praising his work ethic and attitude. “It’s great when kids believe in what you’re saying, and that’s Dustin,” he said. “He’s really eager to keep getting better.”
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So, what makes Plott stand out? According to Taylor, it’s his willingness to listen, adapt, and take action without hesitation. In a recent match, Taylor suggested a strategic adjustment—cutting his opponent earlier to secure a stronger finish—and Plott didn’t hesitate. He made the change on the spot and emerged victorious.
Taylor kept it simple with his advice to Plott: just enjoy the ride. “Take it one match at a time and enjoy in these moments on the mat,” he said. It’s a good reminder that college wrestling is about more than just the competition; it’s all about those experiences.
Building Champions: Oklahoma State’s dynamic lineup
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When it comes to Oklahoma State’s roster, Taylor had some interesting insights. He pointed out that the blend of newcomers and seasoned wrestlers isn’t just a smart tactic; it’s part of their culture. This mix creates a vibe where everyone pushes each other to grow and thrive. “They’re not just teammates; they’re all about helping each other score those bonus points and succeed,” he said. Taylor really believes that this kind of supportive environment is key to long-term success. The younger guys soak up knowledge from the veterans, while the older ones stay motivated by competing with these eager newcomers.
He gives a lot of credit to this teamwork for Oklahoma State’s strong start and sees it as a solid base for even more achievements down the road. He imagines a team that doesn’t just rack up wins but actually gets better with each match, creating this awesome cycle of growth and friendship.
The ‘ski bum’ founders of White Stuff are set to pocket £50m after selling their lifestyle and clothing chain.
White Stuff was set up by Sean Thomas and a friend George Treves in the French Alps in 1985 selling T-shirts and sweatshirts to skiers in upmarket resorts such as Méribel and Val d’Isère.
After hatching the idea while drunk to help fund their skiing habit, they made £7,000 in their first season selling the clothing items to fellow skiers. Today, White Stuff has more than 130 stores across the UK.
They opened their first store in 1991 in south London before branching out to Belgium and Germany as well as having dozens of concessions including Marks & Spencer, John Lewis and Next.
Now, South African fashion and homewares retailer TFG has bought UK-based fashion retailer White Stuff, it said on Friday, in a deal that will help it reach ‘critical mass’.
It is understood TFG, which also owns Hobbs, Whistles and Phase Eight, will pay around £50 million for the business
Mr Treves (left) and Mr Thomas (right) will step down from the board and leave the business
It is understood TFG, which also owns Hobbs, Whistles and Phase Eight, will pay around £50 million for the business.
The new owner has said it plans to expand White Stuff’s portfolio of shops and concessions further after positive recent growth for the brand.
TFG did not disclose a value for the deal, but a person with knowledge of the matter said it was about £50 million.
White Stuff was set up by Sean Thomas (pictured) and a friend George Treves in the French Alps in 1985 selling T-shirts and sweatshirts to skiers in upmarket resorts such as Méribel and Val d’Isère
It is understood that Mr Trevers and Mr Thomas and their families own nearly 80 per cent of the shares meaning they will recieve around £40m before the tax.
White Stuff chief executive Jo Jenkins will continue in the role while founders Mr Trevers and Mr Thomas will step down from the board and leave the business.
The pair hired investment bank Rothschild in February after the receipt of an unsolicited approach from a prospective buyer, according to Sky News.
There was understood to be uncertainty on whether the deal would be signed in time to avoid any increase in capital gains by Rachel Reeves in the chancellor’s budget next week.
Mr Treves said the company’s sale to the Foschini Group (TFG) is ‘significant and emotional’ for him and co-founder Sean Thomas.
‘Today marks a significant and emotional milestone for Sean and me. We have spent over 40 years building this company from the ground up,’ he said.
‘While this decision was not an easy one, we believe it’s the right next step for White Stuff and know that TFG are committed to providing White Stuff with new opportunities for growth.’
Mr Treves, co-founder of retailer White Stuff, said the company’s sale to the Foschini Group (TFG) is ‘significant and emotional’ for him and co-founder Sean Thomas
British fashion and lifestyle brand White Stuff has more than 130 stores across the UK
White Stuff chief executive Ms Jenkins added: ‘This is a very exciting moment for White Stuff and represents the natural next step for our business.
‘It builds on the hard work and success the brand has achieved in recent years. TFG London is the ideal owner for our business.
‘They value our brand, have a wealth of premium retail experience, and will be excellent long-term owners to support White Stuff’s next phase of growth.’
Justin Hampshire, chief executive of TFG London, said: ‘With White Stuff’s strong presence on the high street and significant potential for sustained growth, we are committed to supporting Jo and her talented team with their ambitious rollout strategy to further increase its store and concession estate.
‘Simultaneously, TFG London will continue to invest in the White Stuff brand and online offer to drive further awareness and growth.’
In the financial year to April 30, White Stuff achieved revenue of 154.8 million pounds ($201 million) and core profit of 8.6 million pounds, TFG said.
Over 85% of its revenue was generated from the store estate and online, with the remainder from its international and wholesale operations.
TFG will be retaining the experienced senior management team of White Stuff led by Ms Jenkins.
So here’s the upshot of the “bold new era” Silver Lake and an NZR board living in la-la land promised us almost three years ago. Since then …
NZR has lost almost $60 million in the past two years. Annual revenue has not increased since 2021 (which was before Silver Lake were brought in as the so-called geniuses of professional sport).
The $260m investment from the American private equity company has largely been squandered on bribes to provincial unions to persuade them to support the deal, and ill-considered digital media ventures like NZR+ are on life support.
Provincial unions now face major funding cuts with a reduction of $1.8m this year and more than $3m next year.
Professional players will be next as their 36.5% of NZR’s annual revenue takes a hit, raising the prospect of losing more stars to overseas clubs.
In the meantime, Silver Lake will start taking an annual $20m plus dividend from next year. In perpetuity.
There is no doubt Craig Fenton’s appointment as head of NZR Commercial (NZRC) was influenced by Silver Lake, who love to talk up their ability to provide governance advice (really?!!) as well as money.
Sports Insider heard varying reports on Fenton during his brief tenure. He was in equal parts described to this columnist by people who had encountered him as “super smart” but also that he had some “daft ideas”.
Clearly, Fenton and hyper-sensitive executives at NZR HQ didn’t get along, as evidenced by the press release announcing his departure.
“Craig and NZRC have agreed that Craig’s vision of change and approach to driving it are not fully aligned with the organisation,” it stated.
So does that mean the former leading Google executive hadn’t left that company’s monopolist attitude back in the UK when he shifted back to his native New Zealand?
Or does it mean over-protective NZR executives (and possibly a bunch of board directors) don’t want to face the prospect of executing the major surgery so obviously needed on the game here to prevent a terminal decline?
While all this nonsense is going down, those out battling in rugby’s heartlands watch with growing despair.
Was there ever a more poignant and passionate plea for sanity delivered than the one made by long-serving Taranaki NPC coach Neil Barnes in expressing his dismay to the Herald’s Liam Napier earlier this week?
The straight-shooting Barnes stated the obvious in his broadside at NZR, including that rugby fans have fallen in love again with the provincial championship – but the national union’s bosses don’t give a toss about that.
“In my mind, the NPC is an inconvenience to the people at the top level,” Barnes told Napier.
“When Silver Lake came along, there was funding put out there for people in the communities to grow our game and help facilitate it. Now all that funding has been taken away.”
“Our funding was cut by over $100,000 this year and they’re cutting another $250,000 off it next year. That’s on the back of [NZR boss] Mark Robinson sitting in my office, and I was challenging him over funding for our game at this level. He said there’s not a shortage of funds in New Zealand, it’s where you spend it.
“If that’s the case, it shows they don’t respect the importance of grassroots rugby.”
Barnes then pointed to the All Blacks, with 23 support staff, and All Blacks XV teams collectively sending more than 100 people to Japan and Europe this month.
Not that Silver Lake seem to care. It has been absent since day one, seemingly happy to have the All Blacks on its investment resume to impress others while largely doing nothing.
Fenton’s strategy seems to have been to simply create more teams using the All Blacks moniker and sending them on as many overseas promo trips as possible.
All of this, of course, has happened under the watch of an NZR board hopelessly out of its depth, excoriated by the Pilkington Report but with a clutch of directors grimly attempting to hold on to their blazers.
The current chair Dame Patsy Reddy has been a let-down and is not standing again. Provincial unions believe she has done them over but is still trying to influence who makes up the newly constituted board.
Several directors she has worked closely with and who helped enforce the Silver Lake deal on a suspicious rugby public are angling to keep their jobs and securing the vacant chair role.
That alone will be enough to scare worthy candidates away from nominating themselves for consideration.
The rot seems set to continue.
Does Sir Ben Ainslie need to watch his back?
Should Sir Ben Ainslie be worried about his job after failing to topple Peter Burling and Team New Zealand to win the America’s Cup?
Maybe Sir Ben should have a chat to another sporting knight in Sir Alex Ferguson, who seems to have been ostracised from Manchester United now that Ineos founder Sir Jim Ratcliffe is an influential owner of the storied English Premier League (EPL) club.
Ratcliffe, whose company is one of the world’s worst polluters (and also sponsors the All Blacks), is a renowned tight arse who has embarked on a ruthless cost-cutting exercise since buying into United last year.
The club’s popular and long-time historian has been sacked, free lunches for staff and players were cut and now Ratcliffe has come after “Fergie”, a Man United icon.
After previously banning the legendary manager from visiting the United changing rooms after matches, Ratcliffe has now cut Ferguson’s £2m ($4.4m) a year ambassador role for the club.
That prompted a savage tweet from another former United golden boy, Rio Ferdinand.
“If Sir Alex can be taken out, then NO ONE IS SAFE at @ManUtd – anyone in can get it now. Ineos sending a message to ANYONE at the club?!?”
Watch your back, Ben.
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand makes his feelings known regarding his former manager’s removal from his role at the club. Photo / Twitter @rioferdy5
Man City is a soulless club of shaggers
While on Manchester and the EPL, regular readers of Sports Insider will know this writer is no fan of United’s bitter cross-town rivals.
Now it seems the massively overpaid players themselves are adding a bunch more reasons to loathe City.
Former leading player Ben Mendy is laying bare the complete lack of morals at City during an employment tribunal process, in which he is suing the club for £11m of unpaid wages.
Mendy was sacked for alleged sexual offences but was later acquitted and is now going after the club. His argument? He says he was unfairly singled out in a squad of serial shaggers.
“Several Manchester City first-team players, including the club captain, were all present at parties that I attended and hosted. We all drank alcohol. We all had casual relations with women,” he told the tribunal.
That went down like a cup of cold sick with his former teammates and Kyle Walker, the captain. Raheem Sterling, named during the trial, has loaned Mendy the money to help clear pay his legal fees.
As for Walker, his wife filed for divorce last week, although that may have as much to do with her finding out about his mistress and their two secret love children. The mistress is now suing him.
The judgment on that sideshow is damning right down to the mistress threatening to move into a house next door to Walker and his wife if he didn’t buy her a £2m house and some £48,000 wardrobes.
His neighbour compared the affair to the film Fatal Attraction, claiming she was asked by the mistress to lean over the garden fence and record Walker’s conversations with his wife.
Like I said, it’s a classy club!
Can celebrities save us from cynicism?
Ed Sheeran’s sponsorship of newly-promoted EPL club Ipswich Town is being compared to the Ryan Reynolds–Rob McElhenney custodianship of Welsh club Wrexham, who also harbour EPL ambitions.
It raises the question of whether celebrities can save sport from shifty private equity types and ruthless owners like Ratcliffe.
We have our own little experiment about that going on Downunder with an Auckland FC ownership group that includes Ali Williams, Anna Mowbray, Steven Adams, Tim Brown, Winston Reid and Noah Hickey.
They’re off to a flyer after last Saturday and there’s no doubt the feel-good factor around the newly birthed A-League club is being helped by the big names attached to it. We will watch the rest of the season with increasing interest.
While on Auckland FC, there were shades of Joe Biden and his “Tan Blacks” gaffe when referring to the All Blacks and Ireland from our Prime Minister in the lead-up.
Christopher Luxon was a guest at the club’s pre-match function and talked up the impending all-Kiwi clash with the Wellington Phoenix, telling guests there were many great local derbies in world football including “the Rangers against the Celtics”.
We think he meant the Scottish Old Firm derby between Glasgow Rangers and Celtic.
NRL needs to show it’s serious about Christchurch
Another big league match in the Garden City, and another sellout.
It doesn’t seem to matter whether it’s the Warriors or the Kiwis, South Islanders seemingly can’t get enough of the 13-player code.
Among the 17,000 fans packing into Apollo Stadium on Sunday to watch the Kiwis play Australia for the first time in Christchurch in 35 years will be thousands making the trek from West Coast strongholds like Greymouth – and equally as many from Dunedin.
It comes at a time when Christchurch school St Thomas picked up the national title two years running over favoured Auckland schools and when five players with South Island heritage have been included in the squad to face the Kangaroos.
Add in the Crusaders being in the doldrums and, for the first time since 1995, the South Island not holding a single rugby championship of note, and the message is starkly clear.
There has never been more momentum for a South Island franchise in the Australian club competition.
But is the National Rugby League (NRL) listening?
This column has regularly suggested the NRL is merely paying lip service to Christchurch’s two bids and doesn’t really get the opportunity here due to their Aussie blinders being permanently wedged on.
One way to demonstrate that’s not the case will be to see if Australian Rugby League chairman Peter V’landys and his NRL CEO Andrew Abdo turn up at Apollo Stadium this weekend.
Pete and Andy talk a good game about international league but their failure to actually show up for anything outside Australia is a growing talking point among some league pundits.
Both say they will be there, hopefully to witness first-hand the snowballing enthusiasm for league in the south.
Let’s see, shall we?
Team of the Week
New Zealand: Has there ever been a weekend in Kiwi sport like the last one? Will there ever be another one like it again? Celebrate New Zealand, for that was special.
Liam Lawson: Added the cherry to the top on Monday morning with a top-10 finish in his reintroduction to F1. Is that Sergio Perez’s knees we can hear knocking?
Gayle Broughton: The Olympic rugby sevens gold medallist makes her league test debut for the Kiwi Ferns against the Australian Jillaroos in Christchurch on Sunday in the crucial five-eighth role, after a stellar maiden NRLW debut season with the Brisbane Broncos.
Best Home and Field & Stream are launching an exclusive furniture line.
FERDINAND, Ind. — A new partnership and furniture line will be unveiled at October High Point Market, and company officials from both legacy brands involved said that shared common core values are at the heart of the new venture.
Best Home Furnishings and leading outdoor lifestyle brand, Field & Stream, are unveiling an exclusive furniture line in the Best showroom during the upcoming market. The Field & Stream furniture collection features fabrics, leathers and frames that nod to outdoor elements and spans all upholstered categories.
The Field & Stream furniture collection will debut in the Best Home showroom.
“Partnering with Field & Stream is an exciting opportunity for us,” said Brian Lange, president of Best Home Furnishings. “Their brand captures the essence of American outdoor culture, and we’re proud to contribute to that legacy. This new line embodies both traditional and modern design and exposes our brands to new demographics.”
In 2024, the legacy Field & Stream brand was unified under the same ownership for the first time in its history and includes key investors and country music artists Eric Church and Morgan Wallen. Officials said that to honor the roots of American craftsmanship, Field & Stream turned to family-owned, U.S.-based, Best Home Furnishings.
The Field & Stream collection showcases a modern rustic aesthetic.
“When seeking an ideal partner for our upholstered furniture line, it was important to choose a company that shared our core values: family, community, tradition, storytelling and stewardship” said Doug McNamee, president of Field & Stream. “Our new furniture line is more than just a collection of products; it’s a tribute to the cherished memories our readers create, both in the great outdoors and around the warmth of family gatherings.
“With over 60 years of experience, Best Home Furnishings has a strong reputation for producing high-quality, made-in-America products. Knowing the Lange family’s shared passion for the outdoors makes this partnership even more meaningful.”
Officials said that inspiration was drawn from a broad range of aesthetics, from modern mountain-side lodges to luxurious lake houses with elements of rustic river havens. Upholstery options include plaids, tapestries, stripes, matches and multi-fabric models that are a nod to the history of both companies and that have been designed with the modern rustic clientele in mind.
The Field & Stream collection features a range of fabric options.
Lange sees this collection as a natural extension of the Field & Stream brand, infusing modern-inspired designs with the rich history of Field & Stream in an upscaled fashion.
“Every element has been thoughtfully chosen to create a cohesive yet varied line that appeals to both traditional tastes and contemporary sensibilities,” Lange said. “Whether you’re furnishing a cabin retreat, adding a rustic charm to a suburban home, or outfitting resort condominiums, the Field & Stream lineup offers something for every lifestyle.”
Field & Streamis a leading outdoor lifestyle brand with origins dating back to 1871. Officials said that the next generation of Field & Stream includes a return to print, a membership community, new collections of apparel and other products, a music festival, and hunting and fishing excursions. Powered by BirdDog, a lodge in Bozeman, Mont., opening this winter.
Established in 1962 and family-owned and operated, Best Home Furnishings is a family-owned and -operated upholstery manufacturer with three manufacturing divisions in Indiana. Product lines include sofas, chairs, recliners and dining chairs.
