UNE brings Parramatta Eels to Armidale in 2012
The Parramatta Eels will travel to Armidale early next year for their pre-season camp.
The University of New England is a jersey sponsor of the National Rugby League side in 2012, affording locals the opportunity to meet and interact with the players.
UNE’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Jim Barber said the sponsorship was part of a major sports focus for UNE in 2012.
“Next year we will be showcasing UNE’s growing academic strength in various disciplines associated with sport, as well as the University’s superb playing fields and state-of-the-art training and sports science facility,” Professor Barber said.
“The Parramatta Eels arrive in Armidale on Tuesday 31 January for their four-day visit and will stay on campus to utilise our training facilities,” he said.
“Their visit will include plenty of opportunities for New England Rugby League fans to interact with some of the game’s greats.”
The Armidale Dumaresq Mayor, Councillor Peter Ducat, welcomed the opportunity to be the major sponsor of this UNE initiative.
”Armidale has core strengths as a venue for sporting events that bring millions of dollars in to the Armidale economy each year,” Councillor Ducat said.
“Through this sponsorship Armidale Dumaresq Council can support the city’s efforts to increase visitation numbers – whether it be for sport, recreation or education.”
Fans will get the chance to meet the players at a civic reception and also at a dinner with the Eels.
“There will also be opportunities for local schoolkids to be involved in coaching clinics with the players,” Councillor Ducat said.
“I expect this association with the Parramatta Eels to draw people from throughout New England – which is great news for businesses in Armidale – in addition to strengthening the Armidale brand as an ‘Evocity’,” he added.
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