Ross Rebagliati is expected to announce his first major
sponsorship deal with Roots Canada this morning, according
to Justin Kingsley of the CP. Roots spokesperson Raymond
Perkins: "We're signing up Ross as a spokesperson -- we'll
use posters and develop a line of Ross Rebagliati snowboard
wear." Rebagliati's rep, IMG's Nathalie Cook, said five to
six "non-equipment companies" are interested in Rebagliati,
as are "three goggle and board companies" (CP, 3/11).
THE GREAT ONE: In Toronto, Steve Buffery reports that
Wayne Gretzky contacted IMG about representing Rebagliati.
Nathalie Cook: "Literally, Wayne went straight to [his agent
Michael Barnett] and said, 'You've got to talk to this kid.'
And that's how we got him." Cook, on Rebagliati: "Kids
think he's cool for two reasons -- he told the truth and he
stuck up for his friends. And kids can smell somebody who's
not being honest. His message to the kids is, 'You know you
make decisions in life and those decisions have consequences
and be aware of that'" (TORONTO SUN, 3/11).
