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Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union (CMRFU) and local lines company Counties Power have announced a new sponsorship partnership.

The Counties Manukau women’s representative side The Heat, Farah Palmer Cup title holders of the rugby 15 and Sevens, will now be called Counties Power Heat.

The three-year naming rights sponsorship agreement was officially signed today by Counties Power Chief Executive Sheridan Broadbent and CMRFU’s Phil Kingsley-Jones.

Counties Power Chief Executive Sheridan Broadbent says this expansion of the company’s long-standing support of the Union demonstrates the close ties between the two organisations.

“There are many synergies between our organisations and are we are thrilled to officially show our support for these dedicated female athletes and help them to continue to succeed at the top echelon of their sport.  Counties Power is a long term sponsor of Counties Manukau rugby and this extension of our partnership shows our belief in the union, and in women’s sport. We have been extremely impressed by the professionalism of the team and by their success to date and are passionate about assisting them to continue to achieve at this level.”

CMRFU Business Development Manager Phil Kingsley-Jones said the sponsorship will allow for the development of the team now and into the future.

“Our women’s team are double national champions, current title holders of not only the national provincial 15’s competition, the Farah Palmer Cup, but also the national Sevens cup holders and the women are excited they now have a major sponsor to support them.  This team is world class, with several members of the team already representing New Zealand in 15’s and Sevens.  Having Counties Power as a dedicated sponsor on board will help us to strengthen the team now, and also help with developing our younger players.”

Ms Broadbent says that support for gender equality is an area the company takes seriously.

“This sponsorship is a natural fit for Counties Power as we’re strong supporters of gender equality in the sporting arena and in the workplace.  We are actively encouraging more women in our own workforce, and this is an area we will be focusing more on in the future.  We believe the Counties Power Heat players are strong role models for our children and our community.”

Counties Power actively supports the communities in which it operates, particularly in the areas of youth, education and team sporting endeavours. Other major sponsorships include naming rights sponsor of the CMRFU’s Counties Power Cup, Pukekohe Netball and the Franklin Primary Schools Triathlon, the major fundraising event for every primary school in the area (either a Calf Club/Ag Day or Gala Day) and Program X, an intermediate school engineering program.  They also support various other initiatives including the Duck Boat Derby, Pukekohe Scout and Guides, Franklin Arts Festival, Rotary and the Franklin A&P show.