Bauer Nike Hockey and the World Cup of Hockey 2004 have announced a global partnership for the eight-nation tournament to be held Aug. 30 through Sept. 14 in North America and Europe. The multi-tiered agreement will provide Bauer Nike Hockey a presence throughout the World Cup of Hockey that extends beyond the ice, into the locker room, and behind the bench.

Bauer Nike Hockey will serve as the tournament's exclusive supplier of jerseys and as an off-ice apparel supplier, including replica jerseys, headwear (caps and toques), T-shirts and hoodies. The deal includes rights to produce the official tournament locker room championship T-shirts and caps, and in-arena exposure at all seven venues. Bauer Nike Hockey also will outfit the coaches, trainers and equipment managers of each of the participating national teams, World Cup of Hockey game officials and working staff, in addition to its already-existing International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) player uniform rights agreement.

With this World Cup of Hockey global partnership, Bauer Nike Hockey further strengthens its position as a worldwide leader in marketing the sport. The company already has high-profile partnerships in place with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), National Hockey League, and Canadian Hockey League, among others.

” We're excited to partner with the World Cup of Hockey as it promises to showcase the speed and skills of the world's best athletes in a highly anticipated, must-watch event,” explains Chris Lindner, Vice President, Global Marketing at Bauer Nike Hockey. “This unique partnership provides the perfect platform for Bauer Nike Hockey to continue its support of the global game.”

“We are pleased to announce our partnership with Bauer Nike Hockey,” said Ted Saskin, NHLPA Senior Director. “Bauer Nike Hockey's commitment to outfit the world's greatest hockey players will provide excellent exposure for Bauer and Nike, and I know fans will be excited to have the opportunity to wear replica jerseys and attire of their favorite players.”

“Bauer Nike Hockey's partnership in the World Cup of Hockey is a natural extension to its already existing commitment to premier international hockey competition,” said Ken Yaffe, NHL International Group Vice President and Managing Director. “Bauer Nike Hockey has a unique opportunity to leverage this event's international stage for both brand promotion and product sales.”