This new agreement is in addition to Babcock’s sponsorship of the Army v Navy match, which extends back over 20 years and enables each individual match in the Championship to continue having its own sponsor.
A signee of the Armed Forces Covenant in 2013 and committed to the Total Support Force concept, an estimated 16 percent of Babcock’s 26,000 workforce have some connection to the Armed Forces, whether as a service leaver, veteran, reservist, or as a member of a serving personnel’s family.
Capt Sarah Oakley (RN), Chair of the Inter Service Championship committee said: “We are delighted that Babcock has extend their sponsorship to be overall sponsor of the Inter Service Championship and on behalf of everyone involved in the Championship’s organisation I would like to thank Babcock’s management.
“The agreement for this year reflects Babcock’s support of our vision for the Inter Service Championship, welcoming a broader range of supporters to matches and making all our events a celebration for the whole military community, past and present.”
David Lockwood, Chief Executive, Babcock said: “The Inter-Service Championship is a corner stone of military sport and service. The camaraderie, teamwork and professionalism around these matches mirror the exemplary standard of the UK Armed Forces. We’re dedicated to continuing this legacy. Our new sponsorship will also extend to the U23, Veterans, Men’s, and Women’s categories, so we can invest in up-and-coming young talent and inspire the next generation of military athletes.
“Now more than ever, sport is a key part of service life. During a period of increased geopolitical instability and increased pressure on our service personnel, the Inter-Service Rugby Championships is an important chance for the armed forces community to come together and celebrate its resilience, hard work and unity while enjoying great sporting fixtures.”