Soccer Greats Omar Gonzalez and Alexi Lalas Join Marriott's "Defenders of Travel" Team

BETHESDA, Md., May 30, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Looking for a way to get into the action this summer? As part of their  partnership with the U.S. Soccer Federation, Marriott International (NASDAQ: MAR) has teamed up with U.S. Men's National Team member Omar Gonzalez and soccer legend Alexi Lalas to announce its "Gonzalez And Lalas: Defenders of Travel" campaign. In a lively pursuit of #TravelVictories, consumers are invited to share their travel adventures and show their support as the nation's best take on the world this summer.

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By visiting the new Marriott.com/TravelVictories website, fans can get to know their heroes, Omar and Alexi, as they are featured in a collection of candid and fun videos that reveal their victories – on the field and while traveling on the road. The site also includes an instant-win game -- the Marriott Penalty Kick Challenge -- which offers fans the chance to win one of several prizes, including a Marriott Gift Card or U.S. Soccer Gift Card.  

"As the official hotel partner of the U.S. Soccer Federation since 2012, Marriott is excited to team up with Omar Gonzalez and Alexi Lalas to bring soccer fans a fun way to engage with a couple of their soccer heroes and show support for the home team," said Kristine Friend, Senior Director, Segment Marketing  at Marriott International.

Fans in New York and Chicago are invited to attend interactive events hosted by U.S. Soccer Federation. Fan Appreciation Day in New York's Times Square (Broadway between 42^nd and 43^rd Streets) will take place on May 30^th from 1PM to 5PM.  Marriott is encouraging soccer fans to join the live pep rally, stop by Marriott's activation to interact with Omar and Alexi, and take part in a Q&A hosted by U.S. Women's National Team player Kelley O'Hara from 4-5pm.

Additionally, fans in Chicago can join live U.S. Men's National Team viewing parties in Grant Park. Marriott will host fans in an interactive lounge equipped with a photo experience, free giveaways, and talent appearances. Fans can also be a part of the action by participating in the Marriott Penalty Kick Challenge live on our turf field. The viewing schedule is as follows:

• June 16: USA vs. Ghana (5 p.m. CT): Arvey Field; near Columbus Drive and Roosevelt Road intersection in Grant Park
• June 22: USA vs. Portugal (5 p.m. CT): Pritzker Pavillion; near Columbus Drive and Randolph Street
• June 26: USA vs. Germany (11 a.m. CT): Petrillo Music Shell at Butler Field; near Columbus Drive and Jackson Street intersection in Grant Park

Fans nationwide can also join in social media conversations and cheer on the team by using #TravelVictories and @MarriottIntl. For more information, visit Marriott.com/TravelVictories.

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 4,000 properties, and more than 690,000 rooms in 77 countries and territories and reported revenues of nearly $13 billion in fiscal year 2013.  For more than 80 years, the company has been committed to guest satisfaction.  Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics.  The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 45 million members.  For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  

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SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.