Ambassadors of Goodwill Return to Harlem for First Time in Decades
(HARLEM, N.Y., October 9, 2007) – Playing in Harlem for just the third time in their storied history, the world-renowned Harlem Globetrotters presented a special show to thousands of Harlem elementary school children today at the 369th Harlem Armory. Presented in cooperation with the NYC Police Athletic League, the Globetrotters created an electric atmosphere by debuting their exciting new show, as they prepare to tip-off their 2008 “Magic As Ever” World Tour.
“We could not think of a better place for the Globetrotters to start our new season than in front of thousands of Harlem school kids at the 369th Harlem Armory,” stated Globetrotters Chief Executive Officer Kurt Schneider. “We came here today because we view Harlem as the spiritual touchstone of the Globetrotter heritage. This is the perfect jumping-off point as we begin to build upon our legendary brand and evolve the Globetrotters beyond our vibrant live event business into new opportunities that allow our fans to interact with the Globetrotters on multiple platforms whenever and wherever they want.”
The game was played nearly 20 years to the day of the Globetrotters' last performance in Harlem - Oct. 6, 1987. Today’s game also marked the return of the Washington Generals, who have not faced the Globetrotters since 1995. The Generals are owned by that loveable loser, the immortal Red Klotz, who is confident that this year the Generals can accomplish a feat never achieved by the Generals’ predecessors, the New York Nationals…actually winning a game. The Generals' best effort was not quite enough today, as the Globetrotters triumphed 54-50.
In a press conference prior to today’s performance, Schneider shared his new vision for the world’s most famous team and welcomed back the Generals. “The Globetrotters had a fantastic training camp, assembling the greatest rookie class ever, with players displaying mind-blowing ball handling skills and extraordinary athletic ability. We are ready for our World Tour to tip off next month in Sacramento and to continue thrilling fans worldwide all year long.”
Among the details announced at the press conference:
• Tickets for all 240 Harlem Globetrotter games on the North American leg of the 2008 “Magic As Ever” World Tour are now on sale. Tickets can be purchased on the team’s new robust Web site: www.harlemglobetrotters.com.
• Fans will have the opportunity to purchase replica jerseys of some of their favorite players via the Globetrotters’ official Web site, www.harlemglobetrotters.com. The newly redesigned site also features the complete tour schedule, interactive games, team videos and photos, and, of course, fun facts about every Globetrotter player.
• For the first time ever, the nickname of each player will be displayed on the back of their uniforms, allowing fans to connect with their favorites even more.
• As part of their exciting new show, the Harlem Globetrotters welcomed back their archrival Washington Generals for the first time since 1995.
The Harlem Globetrotters will tip off their North American Tour in Sacramento on Nov. 15 and play 240 games across the continent through mid-April. Click here for the tour schedule and to purchase tickets.
