Fanatics Partners with Boardroom to Launch Chapter: Next Athlete Development Program
Fanatics, the renowned sports product and experience company founded by Michael Rubin, has teamed up with Boardroom, the prominent sports media company created by Rich Kleiman and Kevin Durant, to delve further into the professional athlete development realm. This strategic partnership aims to enhance the support and growth opportunities available to athletes and their management teams.
Expanding on their initial foray into athlete development in late 2023 with the Athlete Immersion Program, Fanatics is now introducing Chapter: Next. This innovative professional development program is designed to provide athletes with the tools and resources they need to thrive both on and off the field. The inaugural edition of Chapter: Next is set to kick off in June, culminating at Fanatics Fest in New York City. The event will feature a networking room specially curated for athletes and entertainers to connect and collaborate.
In addition to the June event, the companies are planning another gathering in December tailored for athletes in leagues that are in their offseason during that time, such as the WNBA, NWSL, and MLB. This strategic timing ensures that athletes from various sports can benefit from the program throughout the year, maximizing their professional development opportunities.
Michael Rubin, the visionary behind Fanatics, expressed his excitement about the partnership with Boardroom, stating, “We have a commitment to create opportunities for athletes to thrive beyond their playing careers. That’s exactly what this program is built to do.” Rich Kleiman, CEO of Boardroom, echoed Rubin’s sentiments, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the partnership and the goal of empowering athletes through knowledge sharing and curated experiences.
Chapter: Next is in the process of developing its comprehensive program, which will feature a wide range of experiences aimed at fostering growth and development. These include curriculum developed in collaboration with the University of Southern California, one-on-one mentorship opportunities, networking dinners with industry leaders, panel discussions, hands-on sessions with Fanatics executives, a design challenge with Mitchell & Ness, and the exclusive Boardroom Meeting House at Fanatics Fest.
By leveraging the expertise and resources of both Fanatics and Boardroom, Chapter: Next aims to set a new standard in athlete development programs, providing athletes with the necessary tools and support to excel both on and off the field. This collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to empowering athletes and fostering their continued success beyond their playing careers.