Company extends contract

THE Rugby Football League has announced an extended partnership with Specsavers which sees the optician continue their involvement with the organisation for a fifth year.

Since their sponsorship at the Rugby League World Cup 2013, the Specsavers’ logo has appeared on all match officials throughout the game – from the Betfred Super League, to Championship down to grassroots rugby league and the recognised brand will be ever present once again in 2018.

Specsavers will continue to support their brand presence and marketing rights through a number of activations throughout the year, including the ‘fifth official’ campaign which in 2017 saw nine-yearold Jessica Marsh enjoy a once in a lifetime experience as part of the match officials team at the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup Final.

Rugby Football League interim chief executive officer, Ralph Rimmer, said: “It is fantastic news that Specsavers are continuing their partnership with the Rugby Football League for another year.

“They have been a perfect match for sponsorship of our match officials at all levels of the game for the last four years and we’re looking forward to working together once again in 2018.”

Specsavers’ head of sport sponsorship, James Read, said: “We’re delighted to be continuing our longstanding sponsorship of rugby league.

“Technological advancements in recent years have certainly helped umpires and referees, but we will always rely on their personal judgements too.

“At Specsavers we’re glad to do our bit, where we can, to help ensure that they get the best possible support to do their job.

“We are also proud to support such an engaging sport from the elite game to grassroots.”