For the 353rd time the Vodafone Warriors will have the Lion Red name emblazoned on their sleeves when they go into NRL battle today facing the Sydney Roosters in their critical 24th-round clash at Mount Smart Stadium (2.00pm kick-off).
Only Vodafone has been an on-kit sponsor longer but today will mark one of the last times the Lion Red name will be associated with the club as its partnership draws to a close at the end of the season.
“We can’t say enough about the contribution Lion has made over 14 seasons,” said Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah.
“It’s rare to have sponsors who remain as committed and loyal as Lion has over so many years. In the good times and the challenging ones Lion has always been there keeping the faith.
“It’s the end of an era saying farewell but we thank everyone from Lion we have worked with through the years. It has been a fantastic partnership.”
Lion Red, the official match day sponsor today, first came on board as in 2001, its logo featuring on the sleeves of the NRL jersey every season since including every one of the clubs 17 finals matches.
Also nearing the end of its time as a Vodafone Junior Warriors sponsor is the New Zealand School of Education. A shorts sponsor, NZSE joined forces with the club in an educational partnership three years ago.
Managing director of Lion New Zealand Rory Glass and NZSE managing director Brijesh Sethi are special guests in the Vodafone Warriors’ suite today.
