Why Irish Eyes Are Smiling

Rugby League Ireland will make two major announcements this week that will support the national team’s participation in this year’s World Cup and, more importantly, underpin the long-term future of the sport in Ireland.

The name of Ireland’s (the Wolfhounds) major sponsor for this year’s World Cup will be announced at a press conference at Headingley Carnegie Stadium this week with RLI officials confident that the partnership will provide Irish Rugby League with a legacy that will last well beyond the World Cup.

Tony Kenny, the Commercial Director for RLI commented, “We are pleased to announce we have two major agreements with international organisations that will provide RLI with huge resources to develop rugby league in Ireland massively”.

Harvey Norman, a company who has a long association with Rugby League in Australia are supporting Ireland. Harvey Norman has a number of retail stores in Ireland and aims to develop its partnership with RLI like it has done so in Australia.  Also newly on board are Kamp-Easi Motorhomes Ireland’s leading premier motor home hire and sales company.

The final new partner is PJ Gallaghers, a traditional Irish Pub Chain located in New South Wales. The Parramatta Bar will become the official home of RLI fans during the early stages of the World Cup with a number of pre and post match events planned.

In addition to revealing the identity of RLI’s principle partners, RLI are delighted to have the continued support of Hattons Solicitors, a long term partner of RLI ; Emerald Rugby Magazine, a high quality informative rugby magazine dedicated to the Irish rugby scene and of course Kukri Sports Ltd, The official Kit Supplier and long term partner of RLI who will also be merchandising the official World Cup Replica Shirt.

Tony Kenny added, “What we have announced today is a clear indication that RLI is now beginning to attract major partners on long term agreements. This support will provide RLI with the foundations to develop our game domestically. We have been given more financial support than has ever been achieved previously and we aim to make the appearance of the Ireland Team in the World Cup Finals the cornerstone of what we achieve over the coming years”.

As well as the partnership agreements, RLI will also be unveiling the shirt that they will be wearing in this year’s World Cup.

By Geoff Prenter