Scarlets, in conjunction with Kooga Rugby, have today (Tuesday 9th August) launched the home kit for the forthcoming Guinness PRO12 and European Rugby Champions Cup campaign.
The home kit for 2016-17 sees a return to a more modest design as the region enters its 145th season, whilst continuing to capture the essence of the traditional deep Scarlet red that was first worn back in 1884.
The region’s kit sponsors were given an exclusive preview of the kit at the Scarlets home ground before it was unveiled to the public.
Supporters were treated to a celebratory evening at Parc y Scarlets as the region’s squad and coaches looked ahead to the new season. Newcomers Rhys Patchell, Werner Kruger, Jonathan Evans, Rynier Bernardo, Tadhg Beirne and Richard Smith were welcomed to the Scarlets whilst internationals Jake Ball, Aled Davies, Gareth Davies, Rob Evans, Samson Lee, Liam Williams, Scott Williams and John Barclay were welcomed back to the Parc.
Emblazoned on the chest of the Scarlets home jersey is the mark of main sponsor to the four Pro Rugby teams – leading global communications provider BT.
Alwen Williams, Director BT Cymru Wales said: “BT is at the heart of great sport and we are proud of our partnership with rugby in Wales which connects BT to the very heart and spirit of the Welsh nation. Our connection with rugby allows BT to make a personal contribution to society as a sport that plays an important focal role in the lives of our communities, our customers and many thousands of BT colleagues across the business.
“BT Cymru Wales is a major stakeholder in the Welsh economy with new jobs announced this year at our operations in Swansea and Cardiff. BT employs more 4,000 people in Wales together with a vibrant apprenticeship programme that we are equally proud of which mirrors the success of the four pro teams in developing and investing in new Welsh rugby talent.
“Improving our communications infrastructure across the country is vital to the economic prosperity of Wales and something that both BT and our new partner EE are playing a key role in achieving. By combining our skills and expertise we can help make Wales one of the very best countries for connectivity.”
Darran Phillips, Scarlets Chief Executive Officer, added; “The launch of the new kit is a milestone in our seasonal calendar and we are delighted to have been able to welcome sponsors, partners and supporters alike to what has been a showcase event at Parc y Scarlets. We are delighted to have the continued support of a renowned and respected global partner in BT which recognises the importance of rugby to Welsh culture and the rich heritage associated with the Scarlets.
“A return to a more traditionally designed home jersey links us back to our long-standing heritage and echoes our traditional values.”
Ben Koscian, BT Customer Service Programme Director, joined Scarlets stars at the launch on Tuesday evening with his young family. He said: “It was great fun be part of the kit launch with my wife and children who had an amazing time; it’s a good example of rugby’s real family values – inspiring so many and bringing family, friends and colleagues together.”
Scarlets’ home replica jersey is priced at £50 for adults and £40 for juniors. As well as the home replica jersey Scarlets and Kooga are pleased to confirm that there will be a limited edition player replica jersey available at £80 each.
The new-look away jersey will be unveiled at a later date.
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