Northampton Town Football Club and the University of Northampton announce major new partnership

A new partnership that will see the University become the club’s new official club sponsor for the next three seasons.

The partnership, which will begin in June 2013, is Northampton Town’s biggest ever shirt sponsorship partnership, which will include the club’s Football in the Community scheme and will see the University of Northampton name carried on the front of all Northampton Town teams shirts from the under nine Academy side through to the first team.

“I am delighted to welcome the University of Northampton on board as we embark on a major partnership to work together for the benefit of Northampton,” said Cobblers Chairman David Cardoza.

“Both organisations are key parts of the Northampton community and it makes perfect sense for us to work together. Not only will they become our main shirt sponsors, they are also our partners for our Football in the Community scheme and our Academy, and so the 50,000 children a year we come in to contact with will be benefitting from their support.

“But this is not just a sponsorship deal. This is a partnership that will see us offer unique and exclusive opportunities to students in the world of professional football, football management and supporting areas, this will give students at the University of Northampton a real competitive edge over other candidates when entering the workplace.

“This is a massive boost for us as a club and I am delighted the University of Northampton have chosen to support us and we look forward to a long and successful partnership.

“I would like to thank outgoing shirt sponsor Jackson Grundy Estate Agents for their support over the last few years and we are fortunate to have David Jackson on the Board of Directors.”

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Northampton Nick Petford, said:” This partnership will continue to build on our links with the local community and enable us to offer our students even more workplace opportunities and internships in support of our place as England’s No 1 University for employability*.

“Northampton has a rich heritage of sport and the local, regional, national and international coverage Northampton Town Football Club receive is the perfect way for us to promote the University both locally and further afield. The club offers us a unique opportunity in the world of professional football that will be of great value for our students.”

Gala Casinos will remain the club’s back of shirt sponsor.

Chris Hackett and Joe Widdowson are pictured modelling the new 2013/14 home and away kits.

* Source: HESA Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) Survey 2010/11. July 2012, compared to full university status HEI’s for full time study first Undergraduate degree leavers.