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Genius Sports Limited, the official data, technology, and commercial partner that powers the global ecosystem connecting sports, betting, and media, today announces the appointment of Mark Kropf as its Group Chief Technology Officer (“CTO”).

Kropf joins Genius Sports from Google, where he held the esteemed position of Technical Director within Google’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer. In this role, Kropf played an instrumental role in advancing Google’s generative AI capabilities, improving developer experience and driving sustained innovation.

This deep expertise will be pivotal as Genius Sports expands the deployment of GeniusIQ, the next-generation sports data and AI platform which leverages powerful machine learning and generative AI to deliver unmatched game analysis and ultra-immersive experiences.

Kropf brings over two decades of experience in technology leadership, software engineering, and infrastructure management across a diverse range of sectors, including financial services, information technology, and cybersecurity. Prior to his tenure at Google, he was integral to the commercialisation of Cloud Foundry at Pivotal, where he also founded and led the Office of the CTO.

Driven by a career-long commitment to innovation, Kropf holds numerous patents in enterprise software and financial services technology. He is also a distinguished tech-focused investor and advisor, with a passion for supporting startups led by underrepresented groups.

Mark Locke, CEO of Genius Sports, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Mark Kropf as our Group CTO. His outstanding track-record of technology leadership at both Google and Pivotal, combined with his deep experience in AI-focused innovation, will play a critical role in our future. Our cutting-edge GeniusIQ platform is already driving the AI revolution in the global sports ecosystem and Mark’s expertise will play a key role in amplifying and accelerating that transformation”.

Mark Kropf, newly appointed Group CTO, added: “Genius Sports’ technology is redefining how sports are understood and consumed globally. I look forward to supporting this continued growth and working with a remarkable team that has already positioned Genius Sports at the forefront of data and technology innovation in sport”.

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Gordon Moody, the UK’s leading charity dedicated to providing residential treatment for people severely affected by gambling-related harms, is delighted to announce the launch of their new Gambling Support First Aid training.

Most people know how to respond to a medical emergency such as a heart attack, but few people know how to react if they noticed someone struggling with gambling, or know how to recognise signs of gambling-related harm in a family member, friend, or colleague.

Our new Gambling Support First Aid training helps to reduce the fear and uncertainty of addressing gambling issues. It empowers individuals with the skills and knowledge to recognise and respond to signs of gambling-related harms confidently and responsibly.

This two-day course (two full days or four half days) can be delivered online or face-to-face and is suitable for anyone aged 18 and over who is looking to develop their skills and understanding. Developed by our experts, the highly supportive learning atmosphere will help people become the vital link – connecting individuals in need with the right support services.

Monica Shafaq, Gordon Moody CEO, said:

“I am delighted that we are launching Gambling Support First Aid training. It’s important to us to address the stigma associated with seeking support for gambling-related harm. This requires individuals and communities to have a greater understanding and empathetic approach to the issue.

“Our training will help individuals create supportive, non-judgmental environments where not only speaking about these issues is supported, but where there is a clear action plan in place to help individuals who may be affected gain professional help.

“With 4.2 billion people across the globe gambling at least once each year, this is an issue that requires more attention.”

Offering a holistic approach, this programme will blend mental health awareness with actionable first-aid techniques, highlighting the integration of emotional and practical support, and focus not just on intervention, but on understanding the mental and emotional aspects of gambling-related harm.

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Undefeated Latvian boxer and MightyTips ambassador Jevgenijs ‘The Hurricane’ Aleksejevs won the IBO European middleweight belt as he defeated Misto Abdulaev from Germany on 28 September 2024 and took his career record to 17-0-0.

Aleksejevs claimed a convincing victory, securing the IBO title by TKO in the final minute of the second round at the Trofeu de Boxing Fira de Canals tournament in Canals, Valencia.

How it happened

From the opening bell, the 31-year-old Latvian imposed his will on the fight. Working as the aggressor, Aleksejevs launched a series of combinations aimed at Abdulaev’s body and head. He seized the centre of the ring and soon sent Abdulaev to the canvas, setting the tone for the remainder of the bout.

The second round began in an identical fashion. Aleksejevs unleashed a barrage of strikes from the outset, varying his angles expertly. His relentless attack led to three more knockdowns, with the referee stepping in after the final one to stop the fight.

It was an unquestionable victory for the MightyTips ambassador, who demonstrated his knockout power and tactical skill ending Abdulaev’s undefeated streak emphatically.

What did The Hurricane say

“It is my first title, and it is an amazing feeling, I am on cloud nine. We had two strategies for this fight. If he started slow, we would rush it with strong jabs, which was how it went eventually. If he rushed it, we were going to stop him [with shots] to the body. I just tried to do what the coach told me. When I landed my jab on his face for the first time, I knew it would be my night.”

“Now I need to take a break, go hiking in the mountains alone, and look back at what I’ve achieved. Then start preparing for the next fight. I dream of fighting on the big stage, like Matchroom Boxing or American promotions. This was just the first step.”

Who is Jevgenijs Aleksejevs

Born in Riga, Aleksejevs is a former kickboxer and a 2008 junior European champion. A leg fracture in 2015 forced him to switch disciplines. He made his pro boxing debut 11 years ago and now boasts a KO rate of 59%. He is renowned for his counterpunching ability and often dominates during the later rounds. He has been acting as the MightyTips ambassador since June 2023. This win lifted him to the 62^ndposition in the BoxRec. com middleweight world ranking.

Who are MightyTips

MightyTips is a complete sports betting guide launched in 2019. We are a multilingual family of websites operating in major global languages including English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese. We publish a wide array of content, from free daily football predictions to bookmaker reviews and bonus comparisons. All to help the readers make educated choices and wager responsibly. Jevgenijs Aleksejevs has been acting as the MightyTips ambassador since June 2023.