Port Adelaide’s player sponsors were lined up with their respective partners in the countdown to the Power’s 2012 kick-off.
45 individuals, groups and companies signed up as supporters of individual members of the Power squad and their club for the new season, with the pairings confirmed during an evening function at the Allan Scott Power Headquarters on Thursday 20 March.
See photos from the night at the bottom of the story
The gathering heard from coach Matthew Primus and chief executive officer Keith Thomas before each player drew their sponsor’s name, forming a year-long alliance.
Primus thanked the sponsors for their commitment to the players as they embarked on the Port Adelaide’s mission for 2012.
“We’re facing the challenge of getting respectability back in the competition,” Thomas told the player sponsors and their guests.
“And that’s an exciting thing we’re looking forward to doing, and we’re looking forward to that journey with you. So thanks again for all of your support.”
Thomas paid tribute to the sponsors for their support for individual players, saying it laid the foundation for long-lasting relationships.
“It’s always great to go to the footy and watch someone you’re close to,” Thomas said.
“Enjoy your association with our wonderful team of fellas. This is a great group of young lads.
“We hope that we’re going to provide you with some enjoyment over the year and more importantly we will be having a red hot go for you, so thank you very much.”
Following the presentations, each sponsor had their name plaque attached to their player’s locker before having their photograph taken together in the changeroom.
The evening finished with a meal at The Port Club, with the sponsors given the opportunity to get to know their players.
Both Matthew and Keith acknowledged Paul Van Der Haak who has been a player sponsor continuously since 1999 through his company VDH Mobile Mechanical. In 2012, Paul is sponsoring midfielder David Rodan.
Whether they’re long-term or first-time supporters, the squad and the Port Adelaide Football Club sincerely thank every Player Sponsor for your support in 2012.
