Rugby Canada and Aon company NFP have extended their signature partnership through 2026, with the property and casualty broker maintaining its roles as the official insurance partner and official team partner of Canada’s women’s rugby team.
Additionally, NFP and Rugby Canada will jointly work to expand the Let’s Play Rugby program, which aims to engage girls across the country with Rugby Canada teams and the sport.
John Haas (pictured), president of NFP in Canada, commented: “We’re excited to continue our partnership with Rugby Canada and advance our progress in key areas. I’ve had the privilege of getting to know members of the women’s national team, and they are outstanding representatives of our brand and our values.
“From their commitment to their communities to their performance on the pitch, this is an exceptional group. We are proud to continue our partnership, advance Let’s Play Rugby, and support the squad’s preparation for the 2025 Rugby World Cup.”
Under the renewed agreement, NFP will remain the sponsor featured on the jerseys and training kits for all home and away games of Canada’s women’s rugby team. New elements of the sponsorship include branding on home test match and training balls.
NFP and Rugby Canada will also collaborate on Let’s Play Rugby events designed to introduce young girls to rugby and promote physical activity and engagement for improved wellbeing. NFP has been the presenting sponsor of Let’s Play Rugby since its official launch last year.
Rugby Canada chief executive Nathan Bombrys highlighted NFP’s contributions, saying: “Since coming on board in 2022, NFP has been an innovative and engaged partner, and has done excellent work as Rugby Canada’s official broker overseeing our insurance needs.
“We are excited to continue to have them on our team. From supporting our national team players to be the best they can be on and off the pitch to backing our efforts to grow the game and introduce more girls to rugby, NFP’s support will continue to have a tangible impact on Canadian rugby. We look forward to continuing to work with them over the next two years.”
Meanwhile, the two camps also plan to expand their Career Pathway program, which offers paid internships to women’s national team players within the insurance industry, including positions at NFP. Currently, players Sophie de Goede and Emma Taylor work in NFP departments, gaining valuable experience while remaining active in national team activities.
Scott Saddington, managing director of complex risk and national P&C strategy, noted: “Our Career Pathway program has been a win-win for NFP and Rugby Canada. We benefit from employees who bring an exemplary set of skills, including leadership, teamwork, resilience, and high performance.
“Players get to learn more about our business and earn income and benefits, while continuing to train and participate in matches on the world stage. We look forward to welcoming additional players and adding companies to the program.”
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