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News

Midway Evaluation

 Midway Evaluation

So half-way through (August, September, October) it is time to make a midway evaluation.

How did we fare so far ?

The many submissions for the ambassador posts were interesting to read and many were tryly well crafted.

The enthusiasm was high for the first round of review. Everyone was ready and eager to get started.

The reviews were delivered on time most of them of pretty good quality.

Already on the second review however, the rythem has changed completely.

The enthusiasm is gone , the interest decreasing, the level on the way down.

A number of ambassadors are still to deliver their September review not to mention their October ditto. 

Disappointing. But one lesson to be learned is that of fostering contemplacy. To give something away for free might foster the competitive spirit in the first round. But to guarantee 6 slots with no strings attached and without any competitive pressures was obviously a mistake. Not to be repeated. So the setup of the program has been a failure since it did not provide the right incentives for motiving and bringing the best out of the participants.

A temporary technical break-down has obviously not helped things either.

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Arsenal Product Reviews

Review: Arsenal long sleeve jersey

Arsenal Jersey Review: 2010/2011 Away Jersey / Third Jersey 11-12

By MM Sports Arsenal ambassador R.G.

 

Arsenal third jersey 11-12 long sleeve

 

 

This 2010/2011 season away jersey reminds me of the first jersey bought for me by my father.  In 1983, he purchased the Arsenal away jersey which the team sported that season with multi-tone bright yellow vertical stripes and the navy blue Cannon over the left breast! So I suppose there is some tradition behind the yellow road ‘silks’.

I have always found the Gunner’s choice of ‘Optic Yellow’ and Burgundy a bit garish as far as the kit goes, but I have to admit the Arsenal jersey in full Burgundy with yellow trim (circa 2003) was a classy shirt!

 

Arsenal away jersey 10-11 neckline

 

 

The 2010 Away jersey is once again eye popping Yellow, but with a very thin vertical pinstripe of Burgundy.  The front carries the club sponsor, Emirates Airlines catch phrase ‘Fly Emirates’ screened across the mid-riff, along with the modern Arsenal crest embroidered over the heart.

As the manufacturer is Nike, the right chest carries the infamous ‘Swoosh’, so easily recognized as it is a household brand now worldwide. The back of the jersey sports the club name just below the collar in the middle of the back yoke.  This makes for a nice touch of detail.  My jersey has long sleeves, which I love because here in Canada my climate enables me to wear a long sleeve pretty much all year long. The sleeves of this jersey are fitted with Burgundy cuffs, matching the pinstripe and v-neck collar.  The model I am reviewing does not carry the name and number patches, nor Premier League badges, although for a small price these can be added to the jersey to complete the Authentic look. 

 

Arsenal away jersey 10-11 back side live model

 

 

Nike has done a great job with the development of the Dri-fit technology which produces a nice hand to the fabric, while maintaining top performance standards for keeping the player dry and comfortable due to wicking benefits in the material and ease of breathability.

You may recall Arsenal wore these silks in both its Champions league run in 2010, as well as numerous Premier league games. As a fan, my preference is a darker road jersey, however I can certainly see where, as a player, this kit would be extremely easy to pick out on a pitch and aid in the speed of playmaking.

All in all, I guarantee this jersey will make any Gunner fan ‘stand out’ in a crowd.

Reviewed by Robert Glavind

 

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FC Bayern Munich Product Reviews

Review: FC Bayern Schweinsteiger tee

Review: FC Bayern Schweinsteiger tee

By MM Sports’ FC Bayern ambassador Ben Roden

 

 As the best and most successful team in German football, FC Bayern München have secured a spot beneath the international spotlight. To the joy of FC Hollywood’s fans, and the dire chagrin of everyone else in Deutschland, Die Bayern have become the face of German club football to the world at large. Like Spain’s Barcelona or England’s Manchester United, Bayern represent the best and brightest their nation has to offer.

 

Bayern showcases the strengths of an impressive football nation, so it’s fitting that their talisman, Bastian Schweinsteiger, does the same. Schweinsteiger possesses the all traditional qualities for which the Germans are known – physical strength, defensive prowess, and an unconquerable work-ethic – but also exhibits the vision and passing prowess that has propelled Die Nationalmannschaft to the top tier of the international game.

 

FC Bayern tee Schweinsteiger

 

 

If you’ve been dying to show your support for Bayern’s very own Vice-Captain-Fantastic, you’re in luck. This official Bayern Munich t-shirt showcases Schweinsteiger in all his glory. The black 100% cotton tee   features a full-color image of Bastian superimposed over the Bayern crest, accented by the player’s signature and kit number.  The print on the chest is vivid and glossy, as is the smaller Bayern crest on the bottom left of the shirt.

 

FC Bayern tee logo close-up

 

 

Since this is an officially licensed item, the Bayern crest is all over the place, from the holographic tags to the collar label – it’s cool to have product directly tied to the club, and it allows for the use of propriety fonts and images unique to FC Bayern.

 

FC Bayern crest 4 stars

 

 

In terms of material and fit, you’ll get what you expect – a standard, comfortable tee. It is 100% cotton, so plan for a bit of shrinkage.

 

My only complaint is a small one; an item of personal taste. While the design is clean and clearly rendered, it does seem a bit too colorful and garish – the kind of image that would look great on a youth shirt, but might be a bit loud for an adult supporter.  Overall, this is a well-made and fun shirt from the official FC Bayern Shop – it’s a perfect match-day homage to one of Bayern’s brightest stars, but I find myself wishing it was better suited for everyday wear. We don’t expect subtlety from Die Roten on the pitch, however, so perhaps it’s a tall order to expect it of their merchandise.  

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Misc. Clubs . . . Product Reviews

Review: Espanyol away jersey 11-12

Review: Espanyol away jersey 11-12

By MM Sports’ Valencia ambassador Peter Locascio (now also covering other Spanish clubs)

The review was delivered in a pdf format which makes it difficult to incorporate directly in the blog. The benefit being that the artistic and design quality is much higher.

Therefore please follow the link below to read the review!

 

Click to Read Espanyol away jersey 11-12 review here!

 

By clicking the link a new window will open up!

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News

Answers to the Ambassador Challenge from a Chelsea perspective!

By Chelsea Ambassador R.P.

Challenge 1:

I think the biggest factor as to whether or not an individual gets an upsell on there jersey is probably price point.  If it’s overly expensive to upgrade it becomes prohibitive. If there was a flat upgrade fee for several of a team’s star players I think it would be a good selling point that would lead to some extra sales.   I do feel like it’s much more likely that people will upgrade a jersey with a player’s name rather than league badges. Players are much more integral to the team identity.  Teams may play in  many different leagues and tournaments throughout the season (UEFA, FA cup, etc.) and it becomes difficult to keep up with it.

As to the cross sell, I think  maybe it would be best to do a range of items.  I think to most adults getting a complete kit is unnecessary, but as you said maybe a discounted last years jersey or shirts in support of the same side, or  periphery items (scarves, hats, accessories). 

Challenge 2:

When it comes to non jersey shirts, I don’t think it’s necessarily an either or type situation.  I own both a jersey and cotton t-shirts in support of my college football team (Go Longhorns!).  I think it’s a matter of coming up with some clever, snazzy looking shirts that support your team.  The problem I’ve noticed with soccer shirts is that they tend to just be cotton replicas of  the jerseys.  No clever whit or puns; just team names and maybe a player number on the back.  Here in the states, there has been a big movement for throwback gear, using the logos and designs of the past.  This may be a path you could pursue. 

 

Categories
Product Reviews Real Madrid

Review: Real Madrid CL away jersey 11-12

Review: Real Madrid Champions League Away Jersey

By the MM Sports Ambassador Sean Moran

 

The Real Madrid Champions League Away Jersey has a classic design with a fresh new look to it.  The climacool technology that this jersey has is not like others the feel of the fabric is thick yet it breaths very well.  Like many Adidas jerseys this jerseys breaths in the right areas for not only optimal cooling but at the same time it will keep the moisture off of you so you don’t have to worry about getting cold while training or just wearing it for leisure.  The climacool technology also focuses on certain areas of your body to have maximum ventilation for your body to be able to perform at it up most level.  The jersey the embossed team crest on the upper left chest, and the Adidas logo stitched on the right front chest. The front screen-prints features the team sponsor (bwin) who has consistently maintained sponsorship for Real Madrid over the last several years.

 

Real Madrid Champions League away jersey 11-12

 

 

Also stitched on the right sleeve is the champion’s league soccer ball and on the left is the champion’s league trophy these league badges are very important to a jersey they tell you what league the jersey is worn in, it also can tell other people about what kind of fan you.

 

Real Madrid CL away jersey Star Ball Real Madrid CL away jersey badge of honours

 

 

On the back of the jersey is the name and number of player, as well as team crest at the bottom of the numbers.  The reason for me as a fan to get the players name on the jersey is to support you favorite players not only your team.  The jersey does not look complete without the players name and number on the back of the jersey. Price is not an issue for me because I won’t buy a jersey without a name of the player I like but I understand sometimes price can factor in for some.  Even if you buy the jersey to train instead of the training top you want the player on the back to show your support.  The reason I like to wear team jerseys when I train other than the training gear is because the jersey has more perks like the ventilation of the armpit areas, back, and abdomen.  Also the jerseys are made to be the best possible attire to train an get the most out of you without hindering your abilities due to the elements or even stiffness.

 

Real Madrid CL away jersey official name and number kit

 

 

On the shoulder it has the classic Adidas look with tight arm bands at the end of the sleeves to give it a more fitted look, as well as venting under the arms.

 

Real Madrid Champions League away jersey sleeve

 

 

The bottom right front displays the Adidas authentic mark, while the left bottom displays the screen-print ClimaCool logo.

 

Real Madrid authenticity logo Clima Cool logo

 

 

The sizing of this jersey is true to size, while offering a form fitting style.  The fabric is thicker than most jerseys but very durable and comfortable.  The stitching on this jersey is all very tight and well done, the manufacturing of this jersey shows the effort that Adidas puts in their jerseys to fit it towards what athletes want and what can help them battle the elements and their own body. Also this jersey is very stylish with a great new red color that I have not seen in a Real Madrid jersey before. 

 

 

 

Categories
News

What makes customers buy ?

Why do People buy ?

The list below is taken from an article on Clickz:

What makes people buy: 

 

The question now is which reasons on this list are behind people’s purchasing decisions when it comes to soccer gear and in particular replica jerseys ?

 

The forces that influence whether people buy include:

  1. Basic needs. We buy things to fulfill what Maslow describes as the bottom of his hierarchy; things like food and shelter.
  2. Convenience. You need something now and will take the easiest or fastest path to get it. Think about the last time you were running out of gas, or were thirsty and found the nearest beverage of choice. This could also be choosing the safe vendor (no one ever gets fired for hiring IBM), or purchasing something to increase comfort or efficiency.
  3. Replacement. Sometimes you buy because you need to replace old things you have (e.g., clothes that don’t fit or are out-of-date). This could be moving from a VCR to a DVD player.
  4. Scarcity. This could be around collectibles or a perceived need that something may run out or have limited availability in the future. Additionally, there’s a hope to gain a return on investment, such as collectibles or antiques; anything that accrues value over time.
  5. Prestige or aspirational purchase. Something that is purchased for an esteem-related reason or for personal enrichment.
  6. Emotional vacuum. Sometimes you just buy to try to replace things you cannot have and never will.
  7. Lower prices. Something you identified earlier as a want is now a lower price than before. Maybe you were browsing for a particular large-screen TV and you saw a great summer special.
  8. Great value. When the perceived value substantially exceeds the price of a product or service. This is something you don’t particularly need; you just feel it’s too good of a deal to pass up. (Like the stuff they place near the endcaps or checkout counters of stores.)
  9. Name recognition. When purchasing a category you’re unfamiliar with, branding plays a big role. Maybe you had to buy diapers for a family member and you reach for Pampers because of your familiarity with the brand, even though you don’t have children yourself.
  10. Fad or innovation. Everybody wants the latest and greatest (i.e., iPhone mania.) This could also be when someone mimics their favorite celebrity.
  11. Compulsory purchase. Some external force, like school books, uniforms, or something your boss asked you to do, makes it mandatory. This often happens in emergencies, such as when you need a plumber.
  12. Ego stroking. Sometimes you make a purchase to impress/attract someone or to have something bigger and better than others. To look like an expert/aficionado; to meet a standard of social status, often exceeding what’s realistically affordable to make it at least seem like you operate at a higher level.
  13. Niche identity. Something that helps bond you to a cultural, religious, or community affiliation. Maybe you’re a Harvard alumnus and Yankee fan who keeps kosher. (You can also find anti-niche identity by rebellion, assuming you’re pretty comfortable with irony.)
  14. Peer pressure. Something is purchased because your friends want you to. You may need to think back to your teen years to think of an example.
  15. The “Girl Scout Cookie effect.” People feel better about themselves by feeling as though they’re giving to others; and especially when they’re promised something in return. Purchasing things they don’t need – or wouldn’t normally purchase – because it will help another person or make the world a better place incrementally is essential to certain buying decisions.
  16. Reciprocity or guilt. This happens when somebody – usually an acquaintance, or someone rarely gift-worthy – buys you a gift or does something exceptionally nice and/or unnecessary. Now it’s your turn to return the favor at the next opportunity. Examples:
    • Event. When the social decorum of an event (e.g., wedding, Bar Mitzvah, etc.) dictates buying something or another.
    • Holiday. ’Nuff said.
  17. Empathy. Sometimes people buy from other people because they listened and cared about them even if they had the lesser value alternative.
  18. Addiction. This is outside the range of the normal human operating system, but it certainly exists and accounts for more sales than any of us can fathom. Can you think back to the last time you bought something and fully explain the reason why?
  19. Fear. From pink Taser stun guns to oversized SUVs to backyard bomb shelters – and even stuff so basic as a tire pressure gauge – these things are bought out of fear. So, before you go knocking “fear” as a motivator, ask yourself: Are you Y2K compliant?
  20. Indulgence. Who doesn’t deserve a bit of luxury now and then? So long as you can afford it, sometimes there’s no better justification for that hour-long massage, that pint of Cherry Garcia ice cream, or that $75 bottle of 18-year single malt scotch other than “you’re worth it” (best when said to self in front of mirror with a wink and/or head tilt).

 

Categories
Manchester United Product Reviews

Review: Man United women's away jersey 11-12

Review: Man Utd womens away jersey 11-12

By womens range ambassador Katie Scharra

 

 ”The Manchester United 2011- 2012 Away Women’s Jersey was my initial top pick of this year’s jerseys as far as design.  Although an avid Manchester United fan to start, as a woman I found the royal blue and black stripes to be very attractive and quite different then most jerseys. 

 

Manchester United away jersey 11-12 womens

 

 

This top is very well tailored to fit the female figure, and is of a very visible high quality. The classic Nike Dri- Fit is always an excellent plus of any sports jersey, although not as flexible.  The Jersey being Nike ran a bit smaller then the other this year, specifically in the shoulder region (an issue for both the male and female jersey fits) due to the design of the top.  Tightness in the arms aside, the jersey is a very nice length and fit.  For women this means it can be paired with legging or jeans and worn for supporting the team at the local pub or wearing it on your day off.  Due to the odd fit the jersey is defiantly a fashion only type wardrobe piece, and if your planning to wear it on the pitch for a kick about it is worth considering ordering a size larger as it will restrict your movement.  All in all, I found the 2011- 2012 Manchester United Away Jersey to be one of my favorite jersey designs of all time.  The fit is attractive and the style is exciting.  The neckline is a classic and was one of the features pointed out to me immediately.  The wide stripes as well are broken up with solid royal blue side panels making for a very slimming look.  Wear it to your favorite bar for the big game or sport it on the weekend for a sporty look, this jersey is stylish and slimming and sure to be one of this year top sellers!”

Categories
FIFA WC | UEFA EURO Product Reviews

Review: Danish national team jersey 2009-11

Review: Denmark soccer jersey

By MM Sports Joker ambassador Aaron Holtsclaw

 

The Jersey I am reviewing this month belongs to the Danish National Team whose nickname is the Red and Whites. Being American, I was not aware of this history of this side. I knew that United great Peter Schmeichel was from Denmark as well as current United keeper Anders Lindegaard. A little research on the history revealed that the past wearers of this jersey had won Euro 1992. Quite an accomplishment from a side that initially didn’t qualify for the tournament but was admitted due to FIFA sanctions against Yugoslavia. I think the history of a side is important when looking at a jersey. The crest states that the Danish FA was started in 1889 which is over a century old. There is few clubs in any sport in my country that has lasted that long. Teams from the NFL didn’t start until post WW 2. So the history with this and other great European sides is incredible. Besides, which United fan wouldn’t be proud to wear the kit worn by The Great Dane? But let’s get to the jersey. It is made by Adidas and came to me in a size 2XL which is a snug fit for me. The Climacool design means it is worn tight to the body which is not the best for a Large man.  

 

Denmark home jersey 2009-11

 

 

The colors are the red and white of the flag of Denmark. The Adidas stripes down the arms are interrupted for about 6 inches before it resumes at the cuff which is an unusual but aesthetically appealing touch. The collar is a nice touch. A lot of jerseys in football have gone away from the collar which I feel is a mistake. The look of the collar gives it a touch of class and lends it a look of formality which most football fans feel about their clubs. The club or national team is something that should be respected. Kind of like putting on your best clothes to go to church. You put on your nice collared kit to attend the church of your teams football ground. Who doesn’t feel their team plays on hallowed ground? If anything it is hallowed by the fans praying for their team’s success. But I digress. The jersey has 2 Adidas logos. One in the center of the chest stitched into the fabric. The other logo is on a little patch above the right hip. There are a series of dashed across the chest and below the crest that form an interesting pattern that breaks up the fact that there is not a shirt sponsor splashed across the front of the jersey like most club teams have.  The last touch is right below the collar is the same DANSK (I am not sure how to put a dot in the middle right here like a bullet point) BOLDSPIL-UNION that appears on the crest. Overall the jersey is nice and a great conversation starter. Even though I am American, I have Danish blood in me so I have no problem wearing the kit I might have worn if my ancestors had never decided to cross the Atlantic.

 

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Chelsea Product Reviews

Review: Chelsea FC base tee

Review: Chelsea base tee

By MM Sports Chelsea ambassador Ray Pottenger 

 

Chelsea Soccer Tee (Grey) A Simple Shirt for Complex People.

                     

     There are seven days in a week, and society, with their “rules of decorum,” or at least your significant other, necessitates you change and launder daily. Sure you have the home, away and alternate jerseys, but what will you wear on the fourth day while you’re doing laundry? How about the Adidas Chelsea Soccer Tee?

 

Chelsea tee base

 

 

The tee comes in a great heather grey with blue adidas stripes running along the shoulders.  It also has a royal blue ringer collar. No one will forget what side you’re supporting as there is a Chelsea patch stitched onto the left breast and the adidas logo embroidered on the right.

 

Chelsea base tee closeup logo

 

 

The material is 100% cotton and is as soft as Mata’s first touch. Unlike a lot of shirts where the sleeves are attached at the shoulder, these sleeves are attached at the collar, much like the baseball tees that have come into style over the years.  The fabric, the stitching in the seams and the details are very high quality and should last a good long while.

 

Chelsea base tee 3-stripe sleeves

 

 

In case you were wondering about what I mean about the sleeves.

 

                      The shirt fits well but runs a bit loose. If you are on the small end of your normal sizing you may want to order down a size. Also, because of the style of the sleeves, they hit the upper half of the arm a little bit lower than your traditional jersey or tee.  

                      In sum, this is a great addition to my shirt rotation. It’s great for hitting up a pub to watch the match or lounging around the house.   Adidas makes a quality product and, barring unforeseen staining issues, this shirt should last a long time.