Dandenong Rangers WNBL players Emily McInerny, left, and Caitlin Ryan joined Jayco Corporation marketing manager Andrew Ryan and mascot Jay Jay at the announcement of a new three-year naming rights sponsorship deal.
By Paul Pickering
THE Dandenong Rangers Womens’ National Basketball League (WNBL) team will play five home games in the Apple Isle over the next three years after signing a $60,000 deal with the Tasmanian Government.
The deal, which follows the successful Hawthorn Football Club blueprint, was announced by Rangers president Charles Ryan and Tasmanian Minister for Community Development Michelle O’Byrne at Launceston’s Elphin Sports Centre last Thursday, 12 July.
On Saturday, 27 October, the partnership will tip-off as Dandenong takes on Sydney Uni at Elphin, marking the first national-level basketball fixture in the state since the demise of the Tassie Islanders WNBL side in 1996.
Ryan said the agreement, which would also facilitate games in Hobart and Devonport, would allow the Rangers to broaden their support base.
“Tasmania, with its thirst for quality national sporting activities, is a perfect fit,” he said.
“Thank you for having us.”
Basketball Tasmania general manager David Scott said basketball was a growing sport in the state and the deal would allow young fans to see some of the best players in the world.
As part of the agreement, Rangers players will also participate in Basketball Tasmania clinics.
Meanwhile, back in Dandenong, the Rangers further consolidated their immediate financial future by announcing that naming rights sponsor Jayco had extended its partnership with the club for another three years.
Dandenong Basketball Association general manager Peter Roach payed homage to the 10-year synergy with Jayco, saying the company’s support has been “nothing short of amazing.”
The Rangers’ 2007-08 WNBL campaign will begin with a cross-town derby against Bulleen Melbourne Boomers at Dandenong Basketball Stadium on Friday, 5 October.
