Knights Upsize Sponsorship
The Newcastle Knights have teamed up with one of the worlds most recognised brands, welcoming McDonalds into the clubs sponsorship family for 2010.
Todays announcement kicks off a deal that will see McDonalds become Official Food Partner from the 2010 season.
This is one of the most significant announcements in our clubs history, said Knights CEO, Steve Burraston.
To have the backing of McDonalds, a globally recognised brand is a major shot in the arm for the Newcastle Knights.
Endorsed by local Newcastle licensees, the agreement contains branding on the rear of jersey and shorts properties, signage at EnergyAustralia Stadium, store appearances and an investment in positive local exposure to promote active and healthy lifestyles.
Murray McKeough, McDonalds licensee at Rutherford and Singleton, announced the sponsorship at McDonalds Broadmeadow restaurant today.
I am extremely proud to be announcing this sponsorship with the other local McDonalds owners in the region to showcase our commitment to supporting the Knights, our local team, a team that is so well respected in Newcastle, said Mr. McKeough.
Mr. McKeough was joined by several other McDonalds licensees committed to the sponsorship as well as Newcastle Knights players Ben Cross, Steve Simpson, James McManus, Mark Taufua, Ben Rogers, Chris Houston and Kurt Gidley.
The Newcastle Community is also set to benefit with two Knights players to become ambassadors for Ronald McDonald House, further enhancing the cornerstone program of Ronald McDonald House Charities at the same time expanding the Newcastle Knights Community Program.
Community is a key focus for the Newcastle Knights and a passion we share with McDonalds, Mr Burraston said.
Were Community owned and we rely on the Communitys support. McDonalds recognised this and are providing us with an outstanding opportunity to further expand our involvement through Ronald McDonald House, he said.
The ambassadorship will give families at Ronald McDonald House in the Hunter a chance to meet Newcastle Knights players at the House, which I am sure would be a dream for so many of the children staying at the House, said Mr. McKeough.
To the surprise of customers at McDonalds Broadmeadow, the announcement was celebrated with the Knights highest profile players serving patrons throughout all sections of the restaurant during todays lunch hour, assisting staff with preparing orders, manning the drive through window and pouring a perfect flat white at the McCafe counter.
All levels of our organisation are excited about McDonalds coming on board but as we saw today, the players have taken it to the next level. Theyve really embraced the partnership, Mr Burraston said.
We are looking forward to the 2010 season and starting what will be a very rewarding sponsorship for McDonalds restaurants in Newcastle, concluded Mr. McKeough.
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