Charlotte, N.C. (November 25, 2013) – Charlotte Lacrosse LLC announced today that Fireball Whisky has signed on as an Official Partner of the Charlotte Hounds of Major League Lacrosse. Elements of the partnership include hospitality, promotions, events, print, social media and the launch of The Fireball Cup rivalry series.
Fireball will host a preseason gathering with the Royal Legion of the Hound, a fan loyalist group known for standing and cheering in a section tagged as The Kennel. The goal of the event is to attract new fans, grow the fan base and bolster the Home Field Advantage.
Feeding on the popularity of tailgating for Hounds games, the Hounds and Fireball are launching a cornhole tournament series, featuring cash and prizes, at partner establishments leading up to the 2014 season. A final showdown for a grand prize will take place prior to the last regular season home game.
Charlotte and Ohio, the 2012 Major League Lacrosse expansion teams, will now play bi-annually for The Fireball Cup, a traveling trophy awarded to the winner of the game. For the game played in Charlotte, the Hounds will partner with a local Fire Station on a fundraiser via ticket sales.
“This partnership makes so much sense on so many levels,” said Jim McPhilliamy, President of the Charlotte Hounds. “Everyone that knows the Hounds, loves the Hounds and it’s rare to find partner brands with the same cache and market appeal,” McPhilliamy said. “Many of our players asked us to reach out to Fireball to become an official team partner after they hosted last year’s Major League Lacrosse All-Star Game Player Party. Just a perfect love-love partnership of two awesome brands.” Wade Leaphart, Hounds Vice President and General Manager, added, “Fireball delivers a tastebud sensation similar to Sawyer’s world record 114 mph lacrosse shot. What’s not to like about that. Hounds and Fireball, two hot brands. Great partnership.”
