The Australian surf watch brand has signed on the surfer and martial artist to publicise its products through its ‘Team Maxum’ initiative. Matthews and Vas also appear in an upcoming documentary by the acclaimed director of Bra Boys, Marcario De Souza.
While the company has previously signed pro-surfers as brand ambassadors the new deal sees Maxum attempt to broaden its appeal through extreme sports.
Maxum general manager Justin Veil said he was thrilled to recognise Matthews, Vas and the documentary Fighting Fear because all three connect with Maxum’s key demographics in the surfing and extreme sports arenas.
“Maxum Watches has been a supporter of Australian surfing talent for many years and our broader direction is extreme sports, making Mark, Richie and Fighting Fear an ideal fit,” Veil said in press release.
Matthews has established himself as a world-class surfer, winning the Oakley Big Wave crown three times. Vas is emerging as one of Australia’s most prominent Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters.
Both Matthews and Vas are enthusiastic about their sponsorship, and recognise the encouragement initiatives like Team Maxum provides to Australian surfing and other extreme sports.
“I’m thrilled to join Team Maxum and support their ethos to push the boundaries in creating quality timepieces designed to handle extreme conditions,” Vas said.
Growing up in Maroubra in Sydney’s east, Matthews and Vas are childhood mates turned successful professional athletes. The feature-length documentary, Fighting Fear is based on their exploits as professional athletes and best friends.
De Souza’s documentary covers the personal and professional lives of Matthews and Vas. The film is set for release on November 10, 2011.