Tough times force college to seek sponsorship

Story by: JOSH REICH - Photo by: Marc Palmano

The Nelson College First XV is breaking with 140 years of tradition, as it is allowing sponsorship on its playing jersey for the first time.

As a way to contribute to the costs of running the First XV and the rugby programme at the college, two auctions are being run on Trade Me for sponsors for the back of the jersey, and the right-hand sleeve.

The sponsorship deal, named "Branding the Icon" is for three years, with the back of the shirt starting at $1000, and the sleeve $500.

First XV commercial manager Mark Vinsen said the decision to put advertising on a shirt that has been largely unchanged for over a century was a huge decision, but was a good way of capitalising on the strength and marketability of the team.

"In 140 years it's the first time we've allowed advertising on it, so it's quite a big thing for Nelson College and the Old Boys."

Vinsen said anyone who didn't like the idea of branding on the shirt could bid on the auction, and choose to put nothing on the space if they won.

"Times financially are tough, and the First XV budget this year is massive. It's probably the largest it has been with transport, accommodation, new gear, food, training. We've all of these costs that are coming in and we can't just rely on Old Boy funds or subs any more.

"To send a boy away is $400 a kid, we've got to do pre-season, we've got Quad, we've got to do Press Cup.

"It's a huge, huge undertaking."

The team was second in both the Press Cup and quadrangular last season, and was gaining increased exposure through television and local media.

The college is also hosting a fundraising evening on February 17, with new All Blacks coach Steve Hansen as the guest speaker.

The First XV will be holding its first pre-season trial around March 17, with its first Press Cup match in Christchurch against Burnside High School on May 5.

To view the auctions, search Trade Me for Nelson College. For more information about the auction, or the fundraising evening with Steve Hansen, contact Mark Vinsen on 0211007523 or mark@aquaflowgroup.com.

The auction closes on January 29.