Online Memberships A Huge Hit
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Wednesday, 5 September 2007
NSWRU Media Unit
The 2008 Super 14 season looks set to be a big one for HSBC Waratahs members with renewals going through the roof on day one of sales.
Plenty for the Fans in 2008 ... Lachie Turner signs autographs
Plenty for the Fans in 2008 ... Lachie Turner signs autographs
The first 24 hours saw a tenfold increase in sales on 2007 levels.
The increase is due at least in part to the development of NSW Rugby's new online membership interface, which allows fans to secure their seats via the internet.
NSW Rugby Chief Executive Officer Jim L'Estrange says the reaction to the new renewal process has been outstanding.
"2008 promises to be a big year and we're already drawing a crowd," Mr. L'Estrange said.
"I've been a NSW Rugby Union member for a long time and from personal experience the new system is leaps and bounds ahead of the old.
"Being able to renew online means no matter where in the world our members find themselves over coming weeks - be it Montpellier or Maroubra - they'll be able to quickly and easily renew their association with the Waratahs.
"By renewing online members get an instant guarantee that their seats are safe for 2008."
The off-field innovation will be matched on it, with the Waratahs boasting an exciting roster of established and up and coming stars.
HSBC Waratahs head coach Ewen McKenzie said even with five months to go before kick off, season 2008 is shaping up to be an exciting year.
"There's already plenty to like about next season," McKenzie said.
"We've recruited strongly with Timana Tahu and Luke Burgess coming into the squad, and have exciting young players like Tatafu Polota-Nau, Kurtley Beale and Lachie Turner who will be much better for the experience gained in 2007.
"Our home crowd is a direct source of inspiration for the players and we rely on them to make the Sydney Football Stadium an intimidating venue for visiting teams.
"As a team we're eyeing a top four finish and this is a chance for all members, old and new, to be a part of it."
The priority renewal period for existing members started this week for NSWRU Life Members and will be followed by Season Member renewals.
Memberships will then be made available to the general public.
The Waratahs have six competition matches at the Sydney Football Stadium in 2008, including blockbuster clashes against the Hurricanes (Round 1), Brumbies (Round 4), Blues (Round 8) and 2007 runners up the Sharks (Round 11).
Members also get guaranteed seats to the Rotomahana Challenge match against the Crusaders, the traditional final trial before the start of the competition, as well as an inbound tour game and the Tooheys New Shute Shield Grand Final.
Other member benefits include special access to the team, priority access to purchase tickets in the event of a home Semi-Final or Final, and an exclusive members-only merchandise pack.
For further details,
click here to visit the NSWRU Memberships page.