Capitals Ink Sponsorship Deals

The Washington Capitals put pen to paper on seven different sponsorship deals Friday in an effort to boost the club's finances and increase exposure around the nation. Last year Washington only completed two deals.

The first deal is with NBC TV and it will pay the club $1,000,000 if the team averages 14,000 fans per home game. Last season the Caps averaged 15,681 on home ice and with an improved roster in Year 6, this deal should be money in the bank.

Wal-Mart, the world's largest company, is involved in the second deal and it's all about goals. If Washington can light the lamp 200 or more times the club will earn $1,200,000. If the team tops the 250 mark, it's another $500,000 in cold, hard cash. Last year Washington netted 258 goals.

ESPN came to the table for the third deal, and it's worth $1,500,000 for earning a .400 or higher win percentage. An extra $500,000 will be earned if the club tops .600. In season 5 Washington was .524.

Not wanting to slight another national television power, the Capitals signed a deal with Fox Sports with a potential return of $1,250,000 in the regular season. Washington will earn the reward if they finish with more than 75 points. The club can also add $750,000 if they make it past the first round of the playoffs.

The next deal is with Viagra and will reward the club based on a strong individual performance by a player. If any Capital scores 40 or more goals, the team earns $2,000,000. If a player hits the lofty total of 57 goals, it's another $500,000 for the club.

Hockey company KOHO came calling for the next deal, and it will pay Washington $1,000,000 if any player plays 80+ games. Last season the club had 11 players reach that mark.

The last sponsorship deal is with internet giant Yahoo!. If the Capitals reach the playoffs, a deposit of $1,500,000 will be made in the team's bank account.

Club management is pleased to see the corporate world recognize the growing franchise in Washington, and everyone is excited to work with these new sponsors.