South African state-owned telecommunications company, Telkom has announced the renewal of a 5-year sponsorship deal with Telkom Knockout trophy, a competition amongst 16 South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) teams.
Although, the details of the agreement were not revealed, the deal extends the partnership Telkom had with the competition in 2006.
Telkom is one of four companies associated with the PSL that recommitted its sponsorship deal after it had expired in December. Both Absa and MTN renewed in August while Nedbank, sponsors of Nedbank Cup, is likely to extend its deal with the PSL.
“Telkom is an instantly recognisable brand and a major employer. We are a provider of the network and the technologies that serve as a catalyst for economic growth. We are an inextricable part of South Africa’s fabric. It is therefore fitting that we partner with the country’s’ most popular sport, football,” says Manelisa Mavuso, Telkom Managing Director, Consumer Services & Retail said during the deal pronouncement in Melrose, northern Johannesburg.
On his part, PSL Acting CEO, Ronnie Schloss said, “We are excited to announce renewal of what has been a successful partnership between the PSL and Telkom. In the last few years, we have enjoyed a good mutually benefiting relationship with Telkom. By renewing the vows tonight, we are once again vindicated in our belief that the PSL enjoys a special relationship with the corporate world. To Telkom, thank you for being such great partners. We look forward to building many more years of wonderful memories that will bring joy to the football supporters.”
With 16 competing sides to fight for this year’s trophy, the Telkom Knockout hurl all Premier Soccer League teams against one-another in a knockout format, with 15 matches to be played before a winner is crowned after the final on 1 December 2012.
Telkom Knockout is the most sort-after contested domestic cup competition in South Africa. The competition dates back to 1982 and this year mark its 30th existence in being an integral part of the South African football calendar.
This year’s launch will feature South African footballers who have made their mark in South African football history – former Bafana Bafana internationals Mark Williams, Pollen Ndlanya, Shakes Kungwane and Philemon Masinga.
Aside from the deal, this year’s Telekom Knockout promise to be a break from the norm with the tournament having for the first time, a direct link to a specific Telkom product – ‘Telkom Mix’.
Apart from this, Telkom promised to continue giving generously to the needy, with the player nominated Man of the Match in each of the 15 games having a charity of his choice receive a cheque for 5 000 rand ($571).
