Josh Harris and David Blitzer unveiled their latest venture, Unrivaled Sports, a new umbrella entity for their expanding collection of youth sports ventures.
This launch coincides with The Chernin Group (TCG), a versatile investment company with a focus on consumer-driven businesses, making a substantial investment into Unrivaled Sports. The company has appointed Andy Campion, a veteran executive from Nike, Inc., and a prominent figure at Disney, as the Chairman of the Board of Unrivaled Sports.
Operating 12 facilities, the company hosts over 550,000 young athletes and welcomes 1.1 million visitors every year.
Harris emphasized that Unrivaled Sports is committed to fostering future leaders by enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in sports throughout various communities. He highlighted the organization’s dedication to delivering unique experiences that motivate, educate, and elevate the youth.
Blitzer expressed enthusiasm about TCG’s alignment with their goal to offer top-tier youth sports experiences and to make a constructive difference in their communities. He noted that the partnership with TCG and Campion’s leadership as Chairman will bolster their capacity to provide memorable sports experiences for children nationwide.
Campion, with a distinguished career at Nike and Disney, and diverse leadership roles in sports, entertainment, consumer sectors, and academia, brings a wealth of experience to Unrivaled Sports. His involvement in several boards and his minority ownership in professional soccer teams, along with his role at UCLA’s Sports Leadership and Management Program, positions him well to spearhead Unrivaled Sports’ growth and innovation in youth sports.
Under the leadership of CEO Wade Martin, the baseball division of Unrivaled Sports includes several key brands like Ripken Baseball® and Sports Force Parks™. The action sports segment, guided by CEO Kevin English, features We Are Camp, acquired by Harris and Blitzer in collaboration with Shaun White. A significant investment in the ForeverLawn Sports Complex marks the beginning of an ambitious plan to enhance youth football offerings.
Campion expressed excitement about leading the charge in elevating the youth sports landscape, with plans to expand into baseball, softball, flag football, and action sports. He emphasized the organization’s mission to offer broad, innovative, and inclusive programs that contribute to the personal and community growth of young athletes.
Throughout 2024, Unrivaled Sports plans to continue announcing expansions and investments in various youth sports initiatives. TCG Co-founder Peter Chernin and Partner Greg Bettinelli voiced their support for Unrivaled Sports’ vision to create unparalleled experiences for young athletes and their families. They see this partnership as a perfect match with their investment philosophy centered on enhancing consumer experiences.
The transaction’s debt financing was led by BDT & MSD Partners, with additional funds allocated for future investments in Unrivaled Sports, showcasing a strong commitment to nurturing passionate and engaged communities through sports.
