Celtic League seeking sponsor

Celtic League chiefs are still searching for a title sponsor to back the 2003/04 competition that kicks off in just four weeks’ time.

But tournament director Keith Grainger remains optimistic that support can be found, both for the 12-team Celtic League and Celtic Cup events.

“I am confident that when we knock on the right door, we will get a warm welcome,” said Grainger.

“This is an outstanding opportunity for a business to penetrate the rugby audience and the general public through huge levels of awareness.

“With only four weeks to go, it’s a tall order, but if there is a company out there ready to share the ride, then we are prepared to include sponsorship and naming rights of the Celtic Cup in with the Celtic League package for the first two seasons.

“For the last three years we have employed a sports agency to present our case, but we recently parted company, and for the time being at least, I will be dealing directly with all matters of this nature.

“So, with barely a month to go, the chase still goes on.”

The Celtic League will embark on its third season, while the Celtic Cup is a new introduction to the rugby calendars of the 12 professional sides from Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

“There will be television cameras at every single game, and we now have a full-blown Celtic League of 11 home and 11 away matches that mirrors the ultra-successful Zurich Premiership in England,” Grainger added.

“The Celtic Cup will add the spice of the sudden-death element, and there is an opportunity for a business partner to join us at the start of what will be a very exciting journey.”

The Neath/Swansea Ospreys, one of Wales’ five new professional teams, will feature in the season’s first live televised game, when they host Ulster on Friday, September 5.

Other action on the opening Celtic League weekend includes an all-Irish clash between Munster and Leinster, Gwent Dragons’ trip to Llanelli and a tussle between the Borders and Celtic Warriors, an amalgamation of Bridgend and Pontypridd.