Australia's leading health insurer, Medibank Private, today announced their sponsorship of Victoria's only National Rugby League (NRL) team, Melbourne Storm.
The sponsorship, which kicks off at the beginning of the 2005 season, will see Medibank Private spread their health and well-being message via the former premiership-winning team.
As part of the sponsorship arrangements, Medibank Private will sponsor the Melbourne Storm Rookie of the Year award, won last year by Matt King.
Medibank Private Managing Director, George Savvides, said of the sponsorship "Medibank Private is constantly seeking opportunities to promote healthy activity and fitness within the Australian community. This sponsorship allows us to raise this awareness with an enthusiastic audience."
"Engaging in regular physical activity is an important lifestyle decision that we hope all Australians are embracing. We encourage all of our members, our staff and the broader community to get the most out of life by keeping fit and healthy," Mr Savvides said.
He continued, "It's also a great opportunity for us to raise our profile amongst rugby league fans around Australia."
According to the Australian Sports Commission, in 2003 over 170,000 people in Australia played rugby league, and the 2003/04 Sweeney Sports Report stated that 46% of Australians are interested in the sport.
"Our support of Melbourne Storm fits well with our other sporting partnerships as they reflect the variety of sports Australians are interested in participating in and watching."
Medibank Private will also support a regular update on Melbourne Storm's injury list. The update will tie in with Medibank Private's annual Sports Injuries Report - annual research into the impact of sporting injuries in Australia.
Melbourne Storm Chief Executive Officer, Brian Waldron said, "Naturally, the Melbourne Storm is very excited to have Medibank Private, Australia's largest health insurer, on board as a key partner. For us, it's a great opportunity to get our message to Medibank's almost 3 million members - Australians who are interested in their health and keeping fit."
Under the sponsorship arrangement, Medibank Private's logo will appear on the sleeve of both the home and away strip.
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For details, contact Trish Hyde, Public Affairs Manager
03 8622 5161