Date: 9/9/14
SHIELD Security Services has shown it stands behind Latin American Rugby League, coming on board as a leading sponsor ahead of a busy international schedule for the Heat.
The announcement is heralded as one of the biggest steps forward for rugby league in the Latino community, allowing the not-for-profit organisation to continue its policy of free coaching and development for newcomers.
Directed by Sean Day, of Peruvian heritage, Shield will have its logo emblazoned on the chest of the Latin Heat for upcoming events including:
• Saturday October 11: Mitchelton Nines in Brisbane, a tournament that also involves 2013 World Cup quarter finalists the USA Tomahawks.
• Saturday October 11: Harmony Cup at St Mary’s, Sydney. The Latin Heat will field a junior team for the first time in this Under 16-years cultural extravaganza.
• Saturday October 18: Latin Heat v Portugal at Woollahra Oval, Rose Bay, Sydney. Full 17-a-side played under international rules.
• Saturday October 25: Latin Heat players and officials will appear at the Fairfield City Council Culinary Carnivale, Sydney, a premier event for the Latin American community in Australia.
In addition, Shield Security Services will be a partner of the Latin Heat for planned internationals in 2015 against the Philippines and Thailand, as well as the Cabramatta International Nines.
Shield is an industry leader in Sydney, covering everything from crowd control, to VIP escorts, guard dog services, street patrol and risk management.
More details are available at www.shieldsecurity.com.au
Latin American Rugby League director Rob Burgin said the addition of Shield Security capped an encouraging first 12 months for the Heat.
“People were sceptical in 2013 that we could even form a side, but to date we have played five international teams and shown there is a passion in the Latino community,” said Burgin.
“While Australia has been a focal point for us getting the concept started, gradually we are helping to encourage domestic interest in places such as Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil, amongst others.
“If I told you that a country like El Salvador is probably less than 12 months away from having a rugby league team you might not believe me.
“We’re thankful to have organisations like Shield who have shown confidence and belief. As recognition of what we offer grows in the Latino and rugby league communities, I have no doubt the concept will go from strength to strength.”
The Latin Heat is confident in coming weeks of adding several new sponsors for 2014-2015, joining not only Shield Security, but also naming rights sponsor Guzman y Gomez Mexican Taquerias, Crop del Monte Coffee Specialists, Rumba Latina Entertainment, Link Australia International Student Service Centres, Gringo Media and Chimi.com.au Gourmet Sources.
