The Brisbane Lions Administration Offices at Gabba Gate 2 were officially named the Hyundai Centre in a special launch ceremony in the Gate 2 parklands before the massive Lions v Carlton blockbuster.
Lions Chairman Tony Kelly and Hyundai Director of Sales Damien Meredith announced Hyundai's five-year platinum partner sponsorship before flicking the switch to light up the Hyundai Centre building branding.
The Hyundai Motor Company is the world's fastest growing automotive group and their marquee sporting sponsorship of the Club runs from 2010 to 2014.
It includes the Hyundai Centre building naming rights, a Hyundai Wing of stadium signage and corporate hospitality within the iconic Gabba, and other exciting initiatives.
To celebrate the grand occasion, a wide range of free pre-game fan activities were organised at the Gabba leading into the Lions v Blues showdown:
· Special Hyundai match-day showcase in the Gate 2 park to help launch the Hyundai Centre Lions Administration Offices. There was an on-site Hyundai consultant and vehicles, DJ music, free fan Goal Fingers and an Incredible Made Possible Competition where every time a special siren sounded in the park, someone sitting in the promotional car won an iPod.
· Official AM radio partners 4BC 1116 News Talk organised their regular weekday Sports Today programme to host a pre-game Outside Broadcast in the Gate 2 park with Ian Maurice and Peter Psaltis.
· Free Hyundai Goal Fingers were handed out from Gabba Gates 2, 4, 7 and 9.
· Pre-game Hyundai Zurf Cylinder Relay Race on the Gabba field where the winners took home a signed Lions guernsey.
Lions Chief Executive Michael Bowers believes Hyundai's partnership will further add to the fresh and exciting era at the Club.
"Hyundai will soon become ingrained in the hearts, minds and conversations of our members and supporters as they meet at the 'Hyundai Centre' before home games and when they enjoy watching matches from the Hyundai Wing," Mr Bowers said.
"From this perspective, Hyundai will become a definite fan favourite with the Lions faithful for years to come with their strong and practical alliance with this proud football club."
"I hope all Lions fans support this great car manufacturer and seriously consider Hyundai for their next vehicle purchase. This way you can actively support the platinum partner that supports your Club."