Problem for N.Z.R.F.U.

Press, 19 May 1984, Page 24

Problem for N.Z.R.F.U.

PA Auckland The New Zealand Rugby Football Union could have a major sponsor for a national 10-a-side competition if it relaxes its rule banning sponsors’ logos — apart from those of the manufacturer — on jerseys and shorts. A transport group, T.N.T. has been confirmed as one of five major sponsors for the Auckland Rugby Union for this year. For the next three years, the company will sp’onsor an Auckland 10-a-side competition in August and September, aimed at catering for senior players not involved in first-class rugby

at the end of the season. Allan Millar, a spokesman for T.N.T.. said his company was interested in becoming involved in the game nationally if the New Zealand union relaxed its attitude over the display of logos. He added that discussions are being held with the New Zealand union over the display of sponsors’ logos on playing gear. Auckland clubs using logos on their playing gear are still within the rules, the Auckland union has decided. Malcolm Dick, the chairman of the Auckland union’s management committee, said the A.R.U. was taking the attitude that the

national union’s stance on the matter was a guideline not a rule. In announcing the union’s sponsorships for 1984. totalling $140,000, Mr Dick said more than half the money would be going into the game at schoolboy level and in grants or lbw-interest loans to clubs. The N.Z.R.F.U.’s handbook says: “An advertiser’s name or logo must not appear on jerseys or shorts. However, it is permissable for the logo (but not name) of the manufacturer of the rugby jersey or shorts to appear on the garment provided the logo does not exceed 6cm by 6cm.