Wayne Gretzky Returns To IMG With Hope Of Expanding Brand, Gaining Sponsors

Hockey HOFer Wayne Gretzky "has returned to IMG as a client for exclusive representation in all areas," according to Liz Mullen of SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL. Gretzky "will be represented by a team of agents" led by IMG Senior VP/U.S. Talent Marketing Ira Stahlberger and IMG Canada Managing Dir Sam Galet. He was previously "represented by Blake Sports Group." Stahlberger said that the acquisition of IMG by WME "is a big reason why Gretzky returned to IMG as a client." IMG "represented Gretzky during his playing  career" from '79-99. IMG "will represent Gretzky in marketing, endorsements, licensing, speaking, broadcasting, entertainment and new business ventures." Stahlberger said that Gretzky "has a few sponsors now, including TD Bank and Breitling watches, but he wants to expand his brand to top-tier NHL sponsors, as well as non-hockey partners." Although Gretzky "has some interest in entertainment work, the primary focus, at least initially, is marketing and licensing" (SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL, 11/24 issue).