The Dragons go into the most important game in their history on Saturday bolstered by the news that principle sponsors Finning (UK) Ltd and Celtic Energy have both extended their sponsorship deals with the region.
Last season marked the first occasion either company had entered into sports sponsorship but both companies have been delighted with the partnership as Regional Manager of Finning UK Martin Lumsden said, "We are delighted to continue our association and sponsorship with the Newport Gwent Dragons. At the start of our sponsorship agreement last year we identified that The Dragons are heavily involved at the community and grassroots end of the game and was a natural link for us as they matched our own business objectives. With a number of Dragons academy players breaking into the first XV, the successful community initiatives the region are involved with including the popular skills camps it was an easy decision for us to continue our partnership. Last year marked the first time we had entered into sports sponsorship and it proved to be a successful one and we look forward to continuing and developing it over the next season."
The deal sees the Finning logo remain on the front of The Dragons playing and replica jerseys and Celtic Energy also moving to the front.
The news that both companies want to remain on board with the region is a massive boost to The Dragons who travel to the heart of France on Friday for the European Challenge Cup semi final game against Clermont.
Speaking on the announcement Richard Walters of Celtic Energy said, "We have been delighted with the way our link with The Dragons has allowed us to grow and develop our brand. At the start of the season we identified that like us, the team is ambitious and they have achieved that with their progression in the European Challenge Cup tournament. We wish them the best of luck for the game against Clermont and look forward to even more success on and off field for the region next season."
Commenting on the exciting news for The Dragons Commercial Director Gethin Jenkins said, "The Dragons are pleased that these two companies have agreed to continue their sponsorship for next season. They joined us at the time when we were entering the European Challenge Cup and have grown the partnership throughout the year and we are delighted that they are staying as we continue to develop and move forward as a team and region."
