Hyundai Becomes A Melbourne Rebel

SYDNEY – February 17, 2011: Hyundai’s Southern Region Dealers have announced the commencement of an exciting new three year partnership with the Melbourne Rebels the Victorian based Super Rugby team.

The partnership, commencing 2011 through to 2013, will see Hyundai recognised as ‘Official Motor Vehicle Partner of the Melbourne Rebels’. A fleet of vehicles will be on hand providing stylish, safe and efficient transportation for club executive, management and team members to games, events and official engagements.

“International club rugby is finally coming to Victoria, and the Melbourne Rebels are proud to be associated with Hyundai in our inaugural season,” said Ross Oakley, CEO Melbourne Rebels. This is a great fit for our team, and we are looking forward to a long and successful partnership with Hyundai.”

The Melbourne Rebels are the 15th team in the 2011 Super Rugby competition and will join teams from New Zealand, South Africa and four other Australian union teams in the contest. Games will be played in all three nations, with competition kicking off in February and a three-week final series scheduled for June 2011.

“Hyundai are the world’s fastest growing automotive company. The brand is fiercely competitive and dedicated to performance – qualities the Melbourne Rebels possess as well.” said Ian Juster, Hyundai Motor Company Australia’s Regional General Manager - Southern Region. “This is a fantastic partnership for Hyundai and the Melbourne Rebels as we both strive to achieve the same goals on and off the field.”

The RaboDirect Rebels will play their inaugural Super Rugby match on Friday 18th February, 2011 at AAMI Park against arch rivals the HSBC Waratahs from New South Wales. This milestone game will see the two teams compete for the coveted Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop trophy, which in the history of Australian rugby commemorates the ongoing sporting rivalry between Victoria and New South Wales. This is sure to be a fiery start to an exciting new Rugby Union season for Melbourne fans.

The RaboDirect Rebels will be led out by their team captain Stirling Mortlock , and vice captain, Gareth Delve under the direction of Head Coach Rod Macqueen. Kick off for the RaboDirect Rebels v HSBC Waratahs match is scheduled for 7.40pm.