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Good Gaming recent strategic partnership with ViaOne Services sets new course for company

Good Gaming

Good Gaming COO David Sterling joined Steve Darling from Proactive to discuss the company's latest strategic partnership and its flagship mobile game, highlighting its innovative Web3 gaming elements. Good Gaming is an interactive entertainment company that's transforming traditional gaming into digital playgrounds across a wide range of interconnected platforms. Its most recent development involves a strategic partnership with ViaOne Services, aimed at expanding its mobile gaming offerings to a broader audience, including the customer bases of Assist Wireless and enTouch Wireless, as well as various app stores. This partnership provides an exciting revenue-sharing opportunity for both Good Gaming and the ViaOne-managed companies. It is structured to include advertising and in-app purchases, creating a win-win situation for all parties involved. One of the key components of this partnership is the pre-installation of Good Gaming's games on over 100,000 mobile phones each month through enTouch and Assist Wireless. This move not only extends the reach of Good Gaming's mobile games but also ensures that their offerings are readily accessible to a large user base. Sterling also shed light on their flagship mobile game, which incorporates innovative Web3 gaming elements. These elements, related to blockchain and decentralized technologies, offer exciting possibilities for gamers, including ownership of in-game assets, provable fairness, and the potential for earning real-world value through gaming activities. With this strategic partnership and the integration of Web3 elements, Good Gaming is positioning itself at the forefront of the evolving gaming industry, offering unique experiences and opportunities for both gamers and investors alike. Contact Details Proactive Interview +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

September 14, 2023 02:03 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

Chicken Salad Chick Introduces the Chick Melt

YourUpdateTV

Chicken Salad Chick, the nation’s only fast-casual chicken salad restaurant concept announced today the launch of its brand-new menu item, The Chick Melt. Recently, Gabrielle Shaiman, the Melt Marketing Manager at Chicken Salad Chick, participated in a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss the new menu offering, what makes Chicken Salad Chick unique, and some exciting, upcoming promotions. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/HPTbmKJPKvo This new, exciting addition to menus nationwide will feature each guest’s choice of one of Chicken Salad Chick’s 12+ chicken salad flavors paired with provolone cheese, all atop a toasted, buttery croissant. The balance of the sandwich’s golden-brown, crispy exterior and melted, gooey cheesy interior, naturally elevates the brand’s famous made-from-scratch chicken salad flavors to a whole new level. As part of this new menu item launch, Chicken Salad Chick guests can expect to experience the Southern hospitality that Chicken Salad Chick is known for with the following specials and giveaways. · “Make Patty Melt” From September 18 – 23 all guests named Patty, Patrick, Patricia, or the like, can receive a free Chick Melt at all Chicken Salad Chick locations. · “Nothing Fishy Here” From October 25 – 27, guests can say goodbye to “tuna melt breath” when they exchange a can of tuna for a free Chick Melt, at participating locations. All cans collected will be donated to a homeless shelter or food bank chosen by each location. For more information and to find a restaurant location near you, visit chickensaladchick.com Gabrielle Shaiman Gabrielle Shaiman brings years of marketing experience to Chicken Salad Chick. She leads the development and execution of creative and content assets used across the entire Chicken Salad Chick brand. She manages brand communication platforms and supports both corporate and individual owners with marketing new product launches as well as day-to-day menu items and specials. She has served as one of the creative masterminds behind the launch of the new Chick Melt, earning her "Marketing & Melt Expert" title. Gabrielle graduated from Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

September 14, 2023 12:34 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

FTN Network Acquires DFSForecast, Signs Partnership with One Week Season

FTN Network

FTN Network, a company built for delivering affordable, customizable, and highly detailed and advanced NFL data for betting, season-long fantasy, and daily fantasy, announced today that it has acquired DFSForecast, known for its Daily Fantasy Sports Lineup Builders and Advanced Data Tools. Leveraging the acquisition, FTN will provide the Optimizer to The Fantasy Footballers, and recently solidified a partnership with One Week Season to offer the DFS Optimizer to its collective userbase. Subscribers on FTNDaily.com will now be able to take advantage of DFSForecast’s lineup optimizer to create countless daily fantasy lineups in a simple and easy-to-use tool powered by FTN Data. Generated lineups can then be uploaded to one’s preferred fantasy operator, simplifying mass roster inputting. The Fantasy Footballers and One Week Season will be the first partners to use this newly acquired tool that is now part of the suite of products offered to FTN Data customers. Offered at a competitive price point compared to its competitors, FTN will look to expand its network of partners by offering this tool to those that have previously been hindered by the cost. “The 2023 football season is still very young, but FTN has seen an explosion of growth,” said FTN Network CEO Kevin Adams. “We were really impressed with the work Caleb Nelson, Sam Vitello, Adam Lewis, and the entire DFSForecast team were doing. The acquisition and incorporation of DFSForecast into our umbrella of tools offered to our customers is just another step in the journey of cementing FTN Network as the one-stop-shop for anyone when it comes to fantasy enthusiast or bettor.” "From our first meeting on, we saw FTN as a natural partner and are thrilled it's now official,” said DFSForecast Co-Founder and CEO Caleb Nelson. “We share the same data-driven approach to fantasy sports and betting. We can't wait to see how our tools add to FTN's already incredible ecosystem.” This acquisition is just one part of the burst of growth FTN Network has seen in 2023. Before the start of the 2023 football season, FTN Network announced it has signed Aaron Schatz, referred to as the founding father of football analytics, to a multi-year contract after partnering for his 2023 Football Almanac. FTN also launched “The Fantasy Football Show” on Sirius XMRadio earlier this year and has seen an incredible increase of web traffic across its network of sites. About FTN Network FTN Network is a data and entertainment network for fantasy sports and betting. Founded in 2020, FTN Network’s family of sites include Fantasy, Daily Fantasy (DFS), Betting and Data. The company has over 50 content contributors to serve the fantasy sports and betting needs of fans across key sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, PGA, eSports, Racing and more. https://www.ftnbets.comAbout TechstarsThe Techstars worldwide network helps entrepreneurs succeed. Founded in 2006, Techstars began with three simple ideas — entrepreneurs create a better future for everyone, collaboration drives innovation, and great ideas can come from anywhere. Now we are on a mission to enable every person on the planet to contribute to, and benefit from, the success of entrepreneurs. In addition to operating accelerator programs and venture capital funds, we do this by connecting startups, investors, corporations and cities to help build thriving startup communities. Techstars has invested in more than 2,500 companies with a combined market cap of more than $220B. https://www.techstars.com About DFSForecast DFSForecast is a leading player in the fantasy sports world, known for its Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) Lineup Builders and Advanced Data Tools. Founded in 2018, DFSForecast uses a unique methodology that uses the characteristics of previous Milly Maker winners to build innovative, customizable and easy-to-use tools for fantasy sports players of all levels. DFSForecast is led by the trio of Caleb Nelson, Sam Vitello and Adam Lewis. Contact Details Sterling A. Randle +1 801-319-6153 srandle@hotpaperlantern.com

September 14, 2023 09:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Revenue Management Solutions Reveals Groundbreaking Comparisons to Pre-Pandemic QSR Performance

Revenue Management Solutions

First-half 2023 traffic is down by nearly 20% compared to 2019 Average check increases of more than 40% contribute to higher sales Revenue Management Solutions, a world leader in addressing profitability challenges for the restaurant industry, has unveiled groundbreaking insights with a comparative analysis of current Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) performance with pre-pandemic levels. RMS compared sales, traffic and average check in the first halves of 2022 and 2023 to the same period in 2019, shedding light on how the extreme market forces of the past three years have affected the industry. “Most of the industry compares month-over-month or year-over-year data. For example, August 2023 traffic was down just half a percent compared to 2022,” said RMS Senior Vice President Richard Delvallée. “This approach reveals gradual changes but not the seismic shifts our comparisons indicate. The landscape has indeed changed for QSR and its customer base.” Not back to normal Standard indices suggest consumers have resumed pre-pandemic behavior. However, the RMS analysis found otherwise. Here are some key observations: QSR traffic is down nearly 20% (18.4%) when comparing June 2023 to June 2019, with traffic consistently trending downward since January 2022, when it was just 15.5% lower than 2019. Overall, QSR average check is 40% higher than pre-pandemic. Average check grew by 51% in specific dayparts. Consumer behavior has shifted permanently away from QSR dine-in. The channel lost nearly half of overall traffic in the past two years. Lunch traffic is consistently down by about 20%, likely due to hybrid work. Similarly, breakfast traffic took a nosedive in 2023 compared to last year. Performance by channel Performance is not created equal when comparing QSR channels. RMS’ analysis reveals a drastic shift towards drive-thru long after dining rooms reopened. Drive-thru: Traffic is down an average of 12% in 2023 compared to 2019. Net sales remain positive (+25%) due to steep increases in average check, which is up 42% for the year — jumping as high as 49.5% in January 2023. Drive-thru accounts for 2/3 of QSR revenue. Dine-in: Across 2023, dine-in traffic was down an average of 47%, finishing Q2 at a 43.6% loss. Average check growth was more conservative — up 36%, keeping net sales in negative territory (-25%). Takeout: Traffic is down an average of 36% in 2023 compared to 2019, with 42% average check growth and net sales down nearly 10%. “Pandemic dine-in restrictions forced a complete halt to dine-in,” said Delvallée. “As restrictions lifted, labor shortages forced operators to limit in-store service. Now, three years out, the convenience-driven behaviors adopted by guests remain and are being reinforced by improved drive-thru technology and operations.” Performance by daypart Daypart analysis further suggests dining behavior has not returned to “normal.” Average check growth of nearly 50% (47.5%) kept net sales positive for all dayparts, but traffic is significantly down. Breakfast: Traffic was down an average of 21.5% in 2023. Breakfast performed much better in 2022, when decreases were just 8% lower than in pre-pandemic 2019. Net sales remain positive (+16%). Lunch: Traffic is down an average of 18% for 2023 compared to 2019. Net sales are up an average of 18%, driven by a 45% growth in average check. Dinner: Traffic remained most stable but still experienced a decrease — down 15% across the first half of 2023. Net sales were up an average of 25%. Upcoming Pricing Pressure Price increases have been pivotal in sustaining QSR revenue, but how much can customers bear before breaking? When RMS surveyed over 1,000 US consumers, 31% reported spending less at restaurants. Among those consuming less, 1 in 2 are doing so by ordering less frequently from restaurants. “Going into the last quarter of 2023, operators have to be very surgical in their pricing strategy,” notes Delvallée. “This data will undoubtedly help restaurants adapt to the new landscape and enter 2024 stronger.” About Revenue Management Solutions Revenue Management Solutions specializes in delivering actionable insights and providing solutions that drive sales, streamline costs and maximize profitability. With a data-driven approach, RMS supports iconic brands and emerging concepts in over 40 countries, spanning more than 100,000 locations. For more information on how RMS helps executives and finance professionals in the restaurant industry overcome profitability challenges, visit revenuemanage.com. Contact Details Center Reach Communications Tracy Henderson +1 720-989-3530 tracy@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website https://www.revenuemanage.com

September 14, 2023 08:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

The Solid Tumors Market Is Expected To Be Worth $901.27 Billion By 2029, And Oncotelic Therapeutics (OTCQB:OTLC) Is Leading The Charge

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga Solid tumors are abnormal clumps of cells that form in various tissues or organs of the body. Unlike liquid or cystic tumors, solid tumors do not contain any liquid components. They can occur in bones, muscles and organs, and can be either benign or malignant. Solid tumors can arise from different types of cells, such as epithelial cells that line the outer surface of the skin and the covering and lining of organs and internal passageways. Solid tumors are generally considered more aggressive and difficult to treat compared to other types of tumors. This is because they have a tendency to grow, invade nearby tissues, and metastasize to other parts of the body. The characteristics that make solid tumors more challenging to treat include their ability to resist traditional cancer treatments — such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy — and their complex genetic makeup, which can vary from patient to patient. Additionally, the location of solid tumors within the body can also contribute to treatment difficulties, as certain areas may be more difficult to access or treat effectively. In order to improve treatment outcomes for solid tumors, researchers and medical professionals are continuously exploring new therapeutic approaches and personalized treatments tailored to the specific characteristics of each tumor. By gaining a better understanding of the underlying biology and genetic abnormalities of individual solid tumors, targeted therapies can be developed to selectively attack cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Oncotelic Therapeutics, Inc. (OTCQB: OTLC) is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of innovative treatments for cancer, with a particular emphasis on solid tumors. The primary product being developed by Oncotelic, through its joint venture is OT-101, also known as Trabedersen. OT-101 is a novel antisense oligodeoxynucleotide designed to target transforming growth factor beta 2 (“TGF-β2”) overexpression in various malignancies, including pancreatic carcinoma, malignant melanoma, colorectal carcinoma and high-grade glioma. Oncotelic aims to address the aggressive nature of solid tumors and their resistance to conventional treatments. In April 2022, Oncotelic’s joint venture (JV) with Dragon Overseas Capital Limited, an affiliate of Golden Mountain Partners, LLC. The JV initial focus is on the development and commercialization of OT-101, the transformative cancer drug that Oncotelic licensed to the JV for a 45% ownership. Dragon Overseas invested cash of $27.6 million for a 55% ownership of the JV. The JV is planned to be headquartered in Hong Kong. Oncotelic could potentially receive up to $50 million following the sale of the RPD voucher once OT-101 has received marketing approval for diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas. The JV is expected to launch an initial public offering (IPO) on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2024, and CEO Dr. Vuong Trieu has said he expects the IPO to be highly successful. “I am excited to announce that, together with our partner Dragon Overseas, we have formed a JV for the discovery, development, and commercialization of TGF-β therapeutics against all pharmaceutical indications,” said Dr. Vuong Trieu, CEO and Chairman of Oncotelic. “This JV unburdens the Company of the high cost of drug development, which the JV will be responsible for, while the Company will participate in its upside through appreciation in the value of its shares in the JV.” The solid tumors market was valued at $209.61 billion in 2021, and it's expected to reach $901.27 billion by 2029. Oncotelic's focus on developing therapies specifically for solid tumors puts them in a very strong position to be a leader in a growing market. The company's research and development efforts in this area demonstrate its commitment to bringing fresh energy and potential breakthroughs into the treatment of solid tumors, offering new possibilities for patients. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

September 13, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Growth Stage Funding Is the New Series A Says Liquidity Group Exec

Benzinga

In the backdrop of dwindling venture capital (VC) funds and economic volatility, firms are re-evaluating equity and debt financing strategies. "We've seen companies bypassing the usual Series A, B, C approach. Instead, they're embracing what's now termed as 'growth stage funding'," notes Yaron Primovich, head of credit solutions at Liquidity Group. Most growth-stage funding comes in the form of non-dilutive investment - an investment that focuses on revenue and success rather than risk. The Anatomy Of Growth Stage Funding Growth stage funding is often the step after seed funding. Here, companies that have ticked off milestones, like significant revenue streams and achieving product-market fit, are looking to expand. Unlike in earlier stages, where firms might rely on equity, now they often opt for debt sourced from banks or similar institutions. Such financing gives businesses the ability to ramp up their operations. The idea, as one CEO puts it, is to "throw gasoline on the fire." These firms, already having shown promise, are now on a less risky pedestal for investors. This isn't to say that this is the last funding bout for firms. Some will continue to look for equity rounds post this phase. But it's observed that many are marching directly to Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) after a successful growth-stage round. The Significance Of Long-term Financial Stability For startups seeking growth-stage funding, a sturdy financial backbone is pivotal. In many instances, lenders demand detailed financial documentation – a rigorous process that some CEOs might find overwhelming. But this scrutiny often streamlines operations, prepping them for further growth. "Establishing financial stability to a non-dilutive lender is gold for future investments. It indicates the company's capability to generate steady returns and manage its debts," said Primovich. The role of working capital is also paramount. It ensures the business keeps running smoothly, fulfilling its daily operational needs. This is especially true in sectors like artificial intelligence and biotech, where there's immense potential for growth, which makes managing finances prudently indispensable. Challenges And Navigation Acquiring growth-stage funding, even with a proven market presence, can be an uphill task. Attracting the right investors who see the vision and potential of the company becomes crucial. Building a robust relationship with potential stakeholders and exuding credibility are fundamental. As companies morph from startup to growth stage, their financial appetite surges. However, affordable capital is key. A company's financial health, its growth trajectory, and prevailing market conditions can swing the cost pendulum. Building a compelling business case and forging strong ties with potential investors often fetches favorable financing terms. Consistent revenue streams bolster a company's growth potential. Startups that can show they're on this path have a better shot at securing additional rounds of funding. Startups need to be cognizant of the current regulatory framework around non-dilutive capital. Non-compliance can be costly, causing delays or even sinking potential investments. This means being alert to securities laws, tax obligations, and more. Expert legal advice often becomes essential. Finding The Right Growth-Stage Partners Aligning with the right investors during the growth stage is a linchpin for success. They're not just financial backers but also mentors and guides. Depending on the need, businesses can look at various potential investors. “Finding a great growth-stage partner is as important as finding the right equity investor,” said Primovich. “Luckily, most non-dilutive funders take hours - not months - to make a decision so the opportunities are promising.” With innovation at its peak and a surge in growth-stage funding, there's a vast potential for industry disruption. For investors and tech companies alike, the future is luminous. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

September 13, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Aniview and NEW ID Forge a Partnership to Revolutionize Free Ad-Supported TV Channels

Aniview

Aniview, a leading global ad tech and media company, and NEW ID, a pioneering force in technology-based content services in Asia, have united forces in an innovative partnership that promises to reshape the landscape of free ad-supported TV (FAST). Over the past two years, the two companies have been working together to jointly develop a CTV ad server and dynamic ad insertion (DAI) solution to target the monetization of FAST channels. This partnership also marks the launch of the first CTV ad server and dynamic ad insertion (DAI) platform specifically designed for the Asian market. NEW ID will exclusively introduce Aniview's solutions to the Korean and Japanese markets initially, followed by a rollout throughout Asia where FAST is expected to grow. By combining Aniview's cutting-edge CTV ad server & dynamic ad insertion (DAI) technology with NEW ID's playout solution, this groundbreaking partnership aims to create a comprehensive and compelling ad-supported TV channel experience for viewers. The result is a win-win scenario for both content creators and consumers, as this innovative approach ensures maximum engagement and monetization opportunities. With over 200 premium Asian FAST channels available across more than 30 major global platforms, NEW ID leads the FAST industry as both a content distributor and media tech company with the capacity to create, brand, build, schedule, and monetize FAST channels. This year NEW ID released its own CTV app, “BINGE Korea” to target viewers in the US. Variety has recognized NEW ID as the top content distributor of International FAST channels in the U.S. in its most recent FAST report. With a presence across North America, LATAM, Europe, and Asia, NEW ID has established its own network of advertising partners worldwide to monetize its impressive portfolio of channels. Aniview has been at the forefront of ad tech innovation since its inception in 2013. The company has developed a patented video player technology, a high-performance ad server, and a robust video marketplace that have collectively propelled it to being a driving force in the global video advertising ecosystem. Aniview's solutions seamlessly cover various formats, including desktop, mobile, in-app, connected TV, and over-the-top (OTT), making it an ideal partner to revolutionize the delivery of ad-supported TV channels. June Park, CEO of NEW ID, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership: "Our collaboration with Aniview marks a significant step towards realizing our vision of enhancing the value of Asian content on a global scale. By leveraging Aniview's state-of-the-art unified technology, we are poised to provide a seamless and captivating ad-supported TV channel experience that aligns with the evolving preferences of modern viewers." Alon Carmel, CEO at Aniview, commented: "We are excited to join forces with NEW ID and embark on a journey that redefines free ad-supported TV channels. By combining our expertise and technology, we are confident in our ability to set new industry standards and deliver unparalleled value to content creators, advertisers, and audiences alike." About Aniview Aniview is a global ad tech and media company whose platform is playing an increasingly central role in delivering efficient and effective video advertising across the open web. The company’s end-to-end solutions are highly flexible and transparent, and they operate on desktop, mobile, in-app, connected TV, and over-the-top (OTT) formats. Founded in 2013, Aniview’s patented video player technology, high-performance ad server, and video marketplace provide flawless video delivery to publishers worldwide and power many of the world’s largest web publishing groups. For more information, please visit www.aniview.com. About NEW ID Founded in 2019, NEW ID specializes in technology-based content services. Currently, the company is the largest FAST channel operator in Asia and offers a complete solution to connecting domestic content to global platforms. NEW ID currently has 4 domestic patents for live broadcasting, automatic programming, and encoding. The company pioneers new areas of technology-based distribution by partnering with 30 major global platforms / 40 ad-tech partnerships / AI localization solutions and specializes in CTV-based B2B solutions. Learn more about NEW ID at www.its-newid.com. Contact Details Aniview Vaibhav Pandey info@aniview.com

September 13, 2023 08:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Experienced SaaS CEO Junior Gaspard joins Logitix’s Board of Directors

Logitix

Logitix, the leader in live event ticketing technology and analytics, announced that Junior Gaspard has been named to the company’s Board of Directors. Gaspard is an experienced SaaS CEO and past recipient of Sports Business Journal’s Forty under 40 award. As a member of Logitix’s board, Gaspard will support the company’s overall strategy, business development, marketing, organizational design, and culture. Logitix manages millions of tickets for teams and properties from the MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, and NCAA, plus live event properties across the music, performing arts, and entertainment industries. Its unique platform analyzes millions of real-time data points, providing up-to-the-minute insights within the live event marketplace. Logitix optimizes ticket sales outcomes for all partners through proprietary dynamic pricing and distribution. Gaspard joins an impressive Board of Directors and advisors, which includes the Chair of the PBS Board of Directors Larry Irving, sports industry and e-commerce executive Danielle Maged, entertainment executive and former Harlem Globetrotters CEO Kurt Schneider, Logitix CEO Stu Halberg, ZMC Managing Partner Jordan Turkewitz, ZMC Partner Ripan Kadakia, and Co-Founder and former CEO of Tessitura Network Jack Rubin. “Junior is a dynamic executive who joins an all-star group of leaders on the Logitix board,” said Halberg. “We are fortunate to have such incredible minds to support and grow our business and ultimately bring the best ticketing technology and analytics to our clients.” Through his role as CEO of Experience, Gaspard established himself as a well-respected leader in the sports and entertainment industries, having partnered with over 200 of the nation’s top professional and collegiate teams. Experience was a mobile commerce platform that was acquired by Cox Enterprises. Its clients included some of the largest brands in the MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL, NCAA, and LiveNation. Its mobile upgrade and subscription ticketing technology was used by 2 million fans annually at 65,000 events. About Logitix Logitix is the preeminent monetization engine and ticketing platform for the live event industry, combining optimized pricing, distribution, and inventory management with real-time insights to help sellers and buyers respond to a rapidly changing market environment. The Logitix vision is to automate the entire ticket life cycle and provide data-driven insights to serve the diverse needs of its clients. The company is backed by ZMC and is privately held. For more information about Logitix, visit Logitix.com or find them on LinkedIn. Contact Details Eric Nemeth +1 602-502-2793 nemeth@ericpr.com Company Website https://logitix.com/

September 13, 2023 07:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

THE APP ANNOUNCES NEW APP SIGNATURE EVENT: 2024 APP U.S. COLLEGIATE CHAMPIONSHIPS AND MIDWEST OPEN

APP

First-of-its-kind event will take place January 3-7 at Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, Indiana; Signature event features college teams from across the country competing in a unique new team format for $50,000* in prize money; Registration will open September 14 on PickleballBrackets.com CHICAGO (SEPTEMBER 12, 2023) -- The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) announced today its first APP Signature Event of its 2024 calendar, the inaugural APP U.S. Collegiate Championships and Midwest Open, held January 3-7 at Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, Indiana. This event, the first of a multi-year partnership, will mark one of the largest pickleball events ever in the state of Indiana and is presented in partnership with Westfield Sports Commission, Hamilton County Sports Authority, Hamilton County Tourism, Indiana Sports and Tourism Bid Fund, and Grand National Racquet Center, a world-class racquet facility in development in Westfield and opening in 2025. The first competition of its kind, the nationally-televised 2024 APP U.S. Collegiate Championships will invite the top college pickleball teams from across the nation to showcase their skills in head-to-head competition. Each team will be comprised of a minimum of four players (two women and two men) and a maximum of six players (three women and three men) and take part in a unique new team competition. Matches from pool play through the finals will be rally scoring, win by one, and consist of singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. Scoring will follow the “Every. Pickle. Point. Counts.” scoring system where scoring for match wins is cumulative, with points bonuses for games won. Under this scoring system, every game and every point matters. College teams wishing to enter the tournament are asked to register their intention to field a team via theapp.global. Full registration details for all college teams confirmed to take part will be shared at a later date by the APP. Alongside the 2024 APP U.S. Collegiate Championships, the APP will hold the APP Midwest Open for players of all ages and skill levels. The event will also feature a pro wildcard playoff, guaranteeing pro champions a wildcard entry into a designated 2024 APP Tour event. The amateur brackets will follow the traditional APP double-elimination format for singles, doubles, and mixed doubles competitions. Amateur and wildcard pro player registrations for the event will open September 14 on PickleballBrackets.com. The 2024 APP U.S. Collegiate Championships and Midwest Open will take place at the 400-acre Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, located 30 miles north of Indianapolis and named the fastest growing city in the state of Indiana. Grand Park Sports Campus is home to the Pacers Athletic Center, serves as the training camp home for the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, and boasts 57 outdoor fields for soccer, football, lacrosse, baseball, and softball. “I am so excited to see the vision come to reality with the launch of this event with the APP and such a terrific group of committed partners,” commented John Moorin, Founder, MD Sports Marketing. “When I first talked to Ken Hermann [APP Founder] about the idea to bring collegiate pickleball to Westfield, I knew I called the right person. I have many unforgettable memories playing in APP events and I am so happy to help create that same excitement for the college athletes who will compete in this great, nationally-televised event. It’s going to be incredible!” Grand Park Events Center, a 377,000-square-foot facility will be transformed to a pickleball mecca for the APP U.S. Collegiate Championships and Midwest Open, featuring 28 pickleball courts and a Championship Court, as well as stadium seating with visibility of all courts, VIP seating, player locker rooms, and a large bar and restaurant overlooking play. “We are excited to host the 2024 APP U.S. Collegiate Championships and Midwest Open here at Grand Park Sports Campus in its inaugural year and for years to come! The addition of pickleball to the campus continues to show how we can utilize the facility for a variety of sports.” said Matt Trnian, Grand Park Director. “We are thrilled to be heading to Westfield for our first APP Signature Event of 2024, the inaugural APP U.S. Collegiate Championships and Midwest Open,” said APP Founder Ken Herrmann. “This event is a special one – it's the first of its kind to feature college-level pickleball teams battling it out for gold and it kicks off our long-term efforts in the collegiate space. You will see exponential growth in college pickleball in 2024, with new events by the APP, and at colleges and universities across the country. We are excited to help fuel this growth and put on a world-class tournament for college players, and everyone who takes part.” Matt Deck, Westfield Sports Commission President, noted “the Westfield Sports Commission could not be more excited about our first official event and the beginning of a long-lasting relationship with the APP!” “I am thrilled to welcome the Association of Pickleball Players and all participants to the inaugural APP U.S. Collegiate Championships and Midwest Open at Grand Park Sports Campus”, said Westfield Mayor, Andy Cook. “This event marks a significant milestone for our city, showcasing our commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and fostering community through sports. We are honored to host this prestigious event and look forward to witnessing the passion and talent of pickleball players nationwide.” “The Hamilton County Sports Authority team looks forward to welcoming the APP for this innovative and exciting new event highlighting both collegiate and open play,” said Hamilton County Sports Authority Director Carl Daniels. “It’s tremendous to see the platform the APP provides for pickleball players of all skill levels. Our team is excited to create a memorable experience in our destination for all these athletes.” "I am excited to join the celebration of athleticism and sportsmanship that the APP U.S. Collegiate Championships and Midwest Open bring to our city”, stated Scott Willis, Westfield’s Mayor Elect. “I congratulate the APP for organizing this event and thank them for choosing Westfield as the host location. This is a first for Grand Park and an expansion of sporting events at the park. I am eager to support and continue building upon initiatives that enhance our community's quality of life and promote the spirit of competition." To stay tuned on additional updates, visit theapp.global and the APP’s social media channels Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn. * subject to official rules and eligibility About the APP Founded in 2019, the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) serves professionals, amateurs and recreational players of all ages in the fastest growing sport in the USA. The APP operates the APP Tour, the first and only tour fully and officially sanctioned by USA Pickleball. The 2023 APP Tour slate has 16 announced tournament stops, in addition to International and Collegiate Series events. The APP also prides itself on developing the next generation of pickleball champions through its Next Gen Series, the Next Gen National Team, and other youth initiatives. To stay tuned on additional updates, visit theapp.global and the APPâs social media channels Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn. About Hamilton County Sports Authority Hamilton County Sports Authority (HCSA), a division of Hamilton County Tourism, creates positive economic and community impact by attracting, supporting and developing sporting events, facilities and clubs for Hamilton County, Indiana. About the Westfield Sports Commission The Westfield Sports Commission (WSC) is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization that was formed in 2023 to grow sports tourism in the City of Westfield. WSC attracts, supports, and leverages diverse, high-quality sporting events to positively impact the quality of life, image, and long-term economic stability of the community. Contact Details The Association of Pickleball Players Daniel Sagerman +1 847-800-8182 dsagerman@theapp.global City of Westfield Chris Proffitt +1 317-804-3000 cproffitt@westfield.in.gov Westfield Sports Commission Matt Deck +1 317-903-9333 mdeck@tradewinds.net Hamilton County Sports Authority Gabby Blauert +1 708-629-9618 gblauert@hamiltoncountytourism.com Company Website https://www.theapp.global/

September 12, 2023 09:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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