LAS VEGAS, May 31, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- The World Poker Association (WPA), www.wpapoker.com, the non-profit governing body of tournament poker worldwide, announced today the induction of its first organizational member, the Swedish Poker Federation. The Swedish Poker Federation, currently boasting 4,000 members, is an umbrella organization for clubs and players that safeguards the rights and interests of Swedish poker players.
Jesse Jones, founder of the WPA, finalized the agreement with Swedish Poker Federation Chairman Ken Lennaard, referenced the partnership as a major step toward establishing international recognition of the World Poker Association. The Swedish Poker Federation represents the largest contingency of international membership to date, validating the WPA's mission to elevate the integrity of tournament poker worldwide through standardized rules and procedures.
"The WPA has the vision and gumption necessary to ensure the rights of all players and organizations involved with tournament poker across the globe," said Lennaard. "We are all anxious to contribute to the future of our sport. We hope that the Swedish Poker Federation will work as a rolemodel for national organizations in other countries."
Since its inception in November of 2005, the WPA has already attracted more than 100 individual members, including 17 founding members, and some of the most recognizable and respected figures in the sport such as Phil Helmuth, Joseph Hachem, Barry Greenstein, Kristy Gazes, Kenna James, and Steve Brecher. With the inclusion of the Swedish Poker Federation, Ken Lennaard was named a founding member of the WPA, as well as the Chair of the International Committee.
"The WPA is thrilled to have the Swedish Poker Federation on board and looks forward to their insight and contributions moving forward," said Jesse Jones. "Their involvement speaks volumes to the necessity and longing for an organized and unified voice for tournament poker."
The announcement comes at pivotal time as the WPA looks to make a huge splash at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) next month in Las Vegas. The WPA will have two booths set up, one during the five day Lifestyle Show and the other in the hall by the playing area that will last through the duration of the WSOP. Membership applications will be available as well as customized WPA styled giveaways.
How to Register
Players, tournament directors, casinos, online card rooms, and dealers interested in membership can register online at https://www.wpapoker.com/membership/membershipform.php for as little as $10 for individual membership.
About World Poker Association (WPA)
The World Poker Association www.wpapoker.com was incorporated in November 2005 in Las Vegas to establish uniformity through rules and regulations, benefits and privileges to those players and entities participating in land-based and online tournament poker. The WPA is designed to assure the integrity of tournament poker through fair and consistent rules and procedures thereby increasing the opportunities of individual and organizational members worldwide. To download an application and become a member, go to www.wpapoker.com.
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