Editor’s Note: Sports apparel “Guru” Ray Jannelli, the president of PLA, has some thoughts this week on his days as the former manager, buyer and sales trainer at the "Original" Mitchell & Ness.)
By Ray Jannelli
On my never-ending quest to procure new and exciting products for the PLA customer (a Seth Godin of Yahoo mantra), it always seems to come down to the relationship dynamic. Many of these business relationships began and ended during my tenure at the "Original" Mitchell & Ness Sporting Goods at 1229 Walnut St in Philadelphia, but the value of these interactions has remained with me.
The World Hockey Association was, to me, an intriguing league with great players, uniforms, and solid Hockey teams. One day, during my retirement at my Lake Como villa, I will write the definitive in-depth history of the WHA. Note: Semi-retired, since I will be racing Donzi Speedboats in the European Professional Speedboat League.
For now, I will mention how Scott Silcox of Maple Leaf Productions in Markham, Ontario got me in touch with Nelson Skalbania, the Owner of the WHA's Indianapolis Racers. Mr. Skalbania was not only the Owner of the Racers, but he is also famous for recruiting Wayne Gretzky into professional ice hockey! I was about to say " The Great One", but I will do a story on Bobby Orr after the first of the year.
Mr. Skalbania is, sometimes, known as the "Donald Trump" of Canada. As I looked forward to my conversation with Nelson Skalbania, I couldn't help but think of that 1981 movie "My Dinner with Andre".
Coming next time, "My Brunch With Nelson"
AuthenticStore Buzz: Barry Rubin, the Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Philadelphia Eagles was recently at the store. The Pro League Authentics Nike Dri-Fit T-Shirt seen in the above picture is the new Eagles weight room t-shirt, supplied by the #1 Authentic Sports Apparel Store in Philly, Pro League Authentics. Get your PLA shirt by contacting the store or visiting us down town.
The NFL is nearing the midway point in the season. If you're a true fan, you have to check out all of the great Philadelphia Eagles, as well as other NFL gear. This includes a great selection of New Nike NFL jerseys as well as tees and hoodies. Pro League Authentics has items from NIKE, Junk Food Tees, and more.
With the MLB championship series underway, Tigers, Yankees, Cardinals, and Giants fans should be clamoring to support their team as MLB has whittled the remaining contenders for the World Series down to the final four. To help you support your favorite playoff team, PLA continues to offer 25% off on all MLB jerseys, just use the code "MLB" when purchasing.
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Authentically Speaking Trivia Time: In the 1980's which NFL team had the most MVPs? Answer to come tomorrow.
Thursday’s answer: 3 Heisman Trophy winners attended the University of Nebraska.
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A Reminder: For more news about Pro League Authentics and thoughts on the world of sports uniforms, Like our Facebook page, converse with us @PLAphilly, and visit our YouTube page.
