NHL and NHLPA welcome Visa as an official partner

TORONTO -- Visa Canada, the National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA) and the National Hockey League (NHL) today announced a new sponsorship naming Visa as an official partner of the NHL and NHLPA in Canada. The sponsorship also designates Visa as the official payment card of the NHLPA and NHL.

"As a committed supporter of some of the world's most celebrated sporting events, Visa is delighted to team up with the NHL and NHLPA as an official partner," said Brenda Woods, Head of Marketing, Visa Canada. "Canadians are passionate about hockey and through this sponsorship, Visa cardholders will have opportunities that will help bring them closer to the sport they love. We look forward to working with the NHL and NHLPA beginning this 2008-2009 NHL season."

"The NHL is thrilled to align with Visa, one of the most powerful brands in financial services," said Laurel Walzak, Director of Business Development for the NHL. "We see many synergies with Visa as we super-serve NHL fans with unique, exciting experiences."

"The NHLPA is excited to partner with Visa, an organization that is a strong supporter of amateur and professional sports in Canada," said Mike Ouellet, NHLPA Chief of Business Affairs. "NHLPA members look forward to working with Visa to bring many unique hockey experiences to fans across the country."

The partnership, which runs until June 30, 2011, allows Visa to engage with Canadian hockey fans nationwide and develop hockey-themed opportunities.

Visa's partnership with the NHL and NHLPA strengthens Visa's commitment to sport in Canada. In addition to its global sponsorships of the Olympic and Paralympic Games and FIFA, Visa is a proud supporter of its Canadian Team Visa athletes and is the title sponsor of Canada's national men's and women's bobsleigh and skeleton teams. The NHLPA and NHL partnership is yet another way for Visa to create Visa cardholder opportunities or compliment those of its financial institution clients. The partnership also allows Visa to promote its products and services in connection with hockey, one of Canada's favourite pastimes.