Continuing its partnership that began in 2007, Adidas and the Toronto-based Right To Play will work together to raise awareness and funds for Right To Play’s programs around the world through the second global Red Ball campaign. Right To Play is an international organization that uses sport and play programs to improve health, life skills, and foster peace for children and communities in the most disadvantaged areas of the world.

The campaign takes place through adidas Sport Performance stores and Factory Outlets in Canada and around the world, as well as online at www.adidas.ca and www.righttoplay.com. In these locations and online, consumers have the opportunity to learn more about Right To Play’s programs and purchase a mini Red Ball. All proceeds from the sale of the mini Red Ball go directly to Right To Play. The signature phrase “SMALL BALL. BIG IMPACT.” represents the simplicity of the transaction: buying a ball can change a child’s life.


“Adidas Canada is very proud to support Right to Play through the Red Ball campaign,” said Steve Ralph, President of adidas Canada. “We encourage people to join us in supporting this worthy cause with the purchase of a mini Red Ball. It’s an easy way to help make a difference in the lives of thousands of children around the world.”


The 2008 adidas Red Ball has been designed to resemble the EUROPASS, adidas official match ball of the UEFA EURO 2008(TM). The balls will retail for $10 CDN.


“We are thrilled about this partnership with adidas and their commitment to support our programs that use sport and play to improve health, build life skills and foster peace for children and communities affected by war, poverty and disease,” explained Johann Olav Koss, President and CEO Right To Play. “Sport for Development is still a relatively new area in terms of global recognition, but with adidas on board we have already in 2007 encouraged so many people around the world to join this important movement and we are proud to continue doing so over the coming years.”