Medibank Private, Australia's largest private health insurance brand, announced its continued support for Australian tennis today with a three year extension to its sponsorship of the Medibank International Sydney tennis tournament.
The decision means that Medibank Private is committed to support the Medibank International Sydney, Australia's only combined men's and women's ATP International Series tennis tournament, until at least 2011.
Commenting on the sponsorship, Medibank Private Managing Director George Savvides said he is proud of the fund's association with the event.
"Medibank Private has been supporting the Medibank International Sydney for four years now, and we have seen it grow to become an important highlight in the Australian sporting calendar.
"There are good reasons for Medibank Private to support a world-class sporting event such as the Medibank International Sydney. It is well known that obesity is on the rise in Australia, the dominant reason being most Australians simply do not get enough physical activity.
"The solution to this problem is in no way simple, but I am certain that part of the answer lies in motivating more Australians to get out and participate in exercise and fun physical activities.
"We believe that this event promotes the benefits of a healthy lifestyle through participation in physical activity, and encourages everyone, particularly the young, to live healthy and active lifestyles.
"At Medibank Private we are moving from a sole focus on covering our members for their hospital care or a trip to the dentist, to a wider role in their health. The best way to help our members is to invest in preventative health. We want to help our members stay out of hospital and on the tennis court, living long and healthy lives," Mr Savvides said.
Medibank Private's support for tennis does not stop with elite events such as the Medibank International Sydney. Every summer, in towns and cities across New South Wales, thousands of boys and girls take part in Medibank Private sponsored Junior Tennis events.
ENDS
For further information please contact:
James Connors
Tel: 03 8622 5163 | Mob: 0433 992 677 | email: james_connors@medibank.com.au