Sports Authority has reached a tentative deal with the Denver Broncos and the Metropolitan Football Stadium District respective to the naming rights of Invesco Field at Mile High Stadium.

“Sports Authority Field at Mile High” – The official name of the iconic stadium, is expected take effect in time for the Denver Bronco season opener on September 12, 2011.

“A home town team should have a home town sponsor,” is how Sports Authority's Chief Marketing Officer, Jeff Schumacher characterized the partnership. “With the Denver Broncos and the Stadium District we will work to preserve the traditions of Mile High while elevating the stadium and fan experience to new heights.”

“The Broncos are thrilled to have Sports Authority on the team. We have a long-standing and successful relationship with Sports Authority and look forward to working together to enrich the experience for our loyal Broncos fans,” said Denver Broncos Senior Vice President, Business Development, Mac Freeman.

Invesco Limited has owned the naming rights to Mile High since 2001 with a contract set to expire in 2036. Under the Invesco contract the naming rights would last 25 years. Invesco entered into talks with Sports Authority earlier this year to explore a possible new deal to place in review with the Broncos and the Metropolitan Stadium District. 

Matt Sugar, Stadium District spokesperson said, “The stadium district has benefited from the Invesco relationship and looks forward to the same commitment Sports Authority has made to Denver and Colorado over the years.”

A formal press conference will be held on September 8 (Time TBD) by the Metropolitan Football Stadium District, the Denver Broncos and Sports Authority where details of the contract will be presented.

Denver will open the season at home for the first time since 2004 when we hosts Oakland on Monday, Sept. 12, at 8:15 p.m. MDT in its 63rd all-time appearance on Monday Night Football. The matchup against Cincinnati (Sept. 18) the following week will mark the first time since 1998 that the Broncos will open the season with consecutive home games.

About The Sports Authority

Headquartered in Englewood, Colo., The Sports Authority is one of the nation's largest full-line sporting goods retailers, offering a comprehensive and high-quality assortment of brand name sporting apparel and equipment at competitive prices. The Sports Authority operates 465 stores in 45 states, and employs more than 15,000 associates nationwide. For more information visit www.sportsauthority.com