In NJ, Rich Chere examines the marketability of Devils
G Martin Brodeur, who has "carved his own little niche for
product endorsements," as his "name or face have been on" a
Wheaties box, Naya bottled water, Pacific Trading cards,
Duracell batteries and Heaton goalie equipment. NHLE
President Richie Woodworth, on Brodeur's marketing appeal:
"It certainly has a lot to do with magic and I don't say
that lightly. Certain players ... have an ability to light
up a room" (Newark STAR-LEDGER, 1/21).
MORE NAMES: Serena Williams, who has been wearing a red
Puma dress and "matching" shoes at the Australian Open this
week: "I can see it now. Nike comes out with blue shoes or
Reebok with green shoes" (SYDNEY MORNING HERALD,
1/21)....FL-based Sports Marketing Consultants signed ATP
Tour player Vince Spadea to a representation deal. Spadea
was represented by IMG for the past six years (SMC)....Pete
Rose has become a spokesperson for MAACO Auto Painting &
Bodyworks and will be the "guest speaker" at the company's
convention next month in Las Vegas (LAS VEGAS SUN, 1/20).