Toronto, ON – March 31 – Rugby Ontario is proud to announce a new multi-year partnership with O’Neills Irish Sports Company Limited. This agreement designates O’Neills as the Official On-and-Off-Field Sportswear and Merchandise Supplier of Canada’s largest provincial rugby union. This strategic partnership marks a significant step forward in Rugby Ontario’s commitment to providing high-quality kit for its athletes, referees, coaches, staff and community.
Established in Ireland in 1918, O’Neills’ business is based on over a hundred years of innovative thinking, entrepreneurial spirit and empowering athletes to achieve their best. Their rich heritage combined with their ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing market makes O’Neills an ideal choice for those seeking high-quality sportswear backed by generations worth of expertise.
“We are thrilled to partner with O’Neills, a brand known for its excellence and deep-rooted history in sports apparel,” said Myles Spencer, CEO at Rugby Ontario. “This collaboration ensures that our athletes and community have access to the best kit, enhancing both performance and representation of our organization on and off the pitch.”
Under this agreement, O’Neills will manufacture and supply all on-field and off-field apparel for Rugby Ontario’s provincial teams and programs, the Ontario Blues. O’Neills has stepped up to invest in Ontario’s dedicated community of match officials, who will benefit from a special entry-level package offering. They will also manage an online retail store for Rugby Ontario merchandise and support events with on-site retail experiences.
“We are thrilled to announce this exciting partnership with Rugby Ontario,” said Philip Murphy, Business Development Manager at O’Neills Sportswear Canada. “Our trusted brand has long been committed to rugby at all levels, and this partnership is a natural progression of our support. Rugby Ontario’s commitment to growing the sport aligns perfectly with our vision to be a key player in the development of rugby across Canada, particularly as we are currently partnered with 50% of Canada’s provincial rugby unions. O’Neills are excited to continue our journey with Rugby Ontario as we work together to elevate the game and deliver world-class equipment to athletes.”
This partnership is a testament to Rugby Ontario’s ongoing dedication to fostering excellence in the sport while ensuring its athletes, coaches, match officials and the broader community are outfitted with industry-leading apparel.
About Rugby Ontario
Rugby Ontario is the provincial sport governing body responsible for the organization of rugby in Ontario. Our mission is to lead, support and promote “Rugby For All” from communities to clubs to province. This mission signals a movement towards creating a more cohesive, supportive and progressive sporting environment that is responsive to the needs of all members. The organization is responsible for leading various provincial and high performance programs, including representative teams for junior/age grade boy’s and girl’s as well as senior women’s and men’s programs.
www.rugbyontario.com
About O’Neills Irish Sports Company Limited
O’Neills was founded in 1918 as a manufacturer of Gaelic footballs and it is now the largest sportswear manufacturing company in Ireland. We are proud suppliers to county teams and clubs throughout Ireland, the UK and across the globe. Champions currently wear our garments across a wide range of sports including Gaelic Games, Soccer, Rugby, Boxing, Basketball, Athletics, Hockey, Netball and more. Our pioneering spirit is built on one simple goal, to inspire everyone to pursue their passion. Everything we do is for the love of sport. Read our story.
www.oneills.com
