Volkswagen Ireland has announced yet another sports sponsorship deal, this time with the association of Leinster Rugby Referees (LRR), which is set to run for the next three years. The German marque is already a sponsor of Leinster Rugby for the past four seasons, but this new deal will give some added financial security and support to the LRR, which is now into its 111th season.
In total there are approximately 350 members including administrative Committee members, Assessors and active members. During the course of a season the Leinster Rugby Referees oversee more than 4,200 games at every stage from Youth right up to Senior level.
Commenting on the sponsorship announcement, Leinster Rugby Referees President, Peter Donnelly, said: "As with all sports - amateur and professional - sponsorship remains a vital component of our survival. The LRR membership is entirely voluntary and operates very much on the principles of amateurism. Members give of the services voluntarily throughout the season. The Association prides itself by the uniformity of its member dress code and sponsorship is vital to member adherence. "We are delighted to have obtained the very generous support of such a high profile and successful company as Volkswagen. Their long-term backing will enable the Association to maintain a consistent, high standard and professional image through all its members whilst on official duties - an objective consistent with the history and reputation of VW itself."
Anything else?
In addition to refereeing matches in Leinster, some of the LRR's members have worked at an international level. Members such as Alain Rolland has refereed in three Rugby World Cups as well as a World Cup final, while Helen O'Reilly recently oversaw the England versus France women's international in Twickenham.