Sport is calling and together with the AFL, rebel welcomed the return of the 2020 Toyota AFL Premiership Season, with the 'rebel Goal Square' relaunched for Round 2 in a thrilling weekend of football.
rebel, - Australia's leading retailer of sports equipment and apparel - signed a long-term renewal with the league, supporting men's, women's, and grassroots football, making it the 'Home of Football' for another four years.
The new deal also includes both the Toyota AFL Premiership Season and NAB AFLW competition, and major partner of the VFLW with the competition to be known as the 'rebel VFLW' from 2021 until 2023.
The traditional Mark of the Year trophy will now be known as the 'rebel Mark of the Year'.
rebel has also claimed signage rights in the goal square, where some of the best and most memorable moments of the game can happen. The rebel Goal Square is one of the most significant assets on field, drawing close attention from fans while teams do battle each week.
The partnership will champion women's football, and female participation across all types of sport, with the aim to increase gender diversity and career development with the 'rebel Young Leader Award' which is awarded to an AFLW player under 23 and the winner receives $5000 cash and entry into the rebel Women Mentor Program.
Invested in the future generation of budding athletes, the rebel Rookies Program will kick off when community football returns later in 2020. rebel Rookies will help children get involved in all codes of sport, along with the best footy experience they can have while learning sports literacy.
AFL General Manager of Commercial, Kylie Rogers, said the Australian retailer's support has been a boost to the industry.
"I'd like to thank the team at rebel for their ongoing commitment to football – from the grassroots game through to the men's and women's competition. They are playing a critical role in support of the football community, and we can't wait to see what we can achieve together in the next four years."
Managing Director - rebel at Super Retail Group, Gary Williams, said the partnership is a true reflection of the shared community values between the AFL and rebel.
"With over 150 retail stores, rebel has a deep connection with communities all over Australia, which extends into every level of football, from the professional competitions to grassroots and community clubs. rebel is truly the 'Home of Football' In Australia.
"rebel understands the passion Aussie's have for their footy, and we are thrilled to be extending our partnership with the AFL. We hope to inspire the Australian community and encourage them to live out their sporting dreams."
Fuelled by the desire to encourage participation in football for all Australians, the renewal follows an existing three-year partnership with the AFL, focused on connecting the community with their passion for sports.
