Rugby Charity Match

Storm and Dragons to battle it out for the Emergency Services Cup

Melbourne Storm’s Round One blockbuster against the Dragons at Olympic Park on Friday, March 13th has taken on significantly greater meaning with both teams to battle it out for the inaugural Emergency Services Cup.

The Cup will now be contested between the two teams each time they meet in recognition of all Emergency Services personnel who give their services to the communities of both Victoria and New South Wales.

At the Round One clash, the Storm will wear special commemorative jerseys that will feature a yellow ribbon embroidered into them, with each player’s jersey to be auctioned off to raise money for the Bushfire Relief Appeal.

In the corresponding clash in Round 21, the Dragons will do likewise with their jerseys.

Storm CEO Brian Waldron says the fixture, which is fully supported by both the Victorian and New South Wales governments, is a fitting tribute to those in the Emergency Services who have done so much for Victoria in recent times.

“I don’t think I’ve come across a person in Victoria that hasn’t been either directly or indirectly affected by the tragic bushfires,” said Waldron."

“We, as a Club, wanted to pay tribute to those Emergency Services personnel who have helped so many people affected by the bushfires, whether that be fighting the fires themselves; providing food, clothing and shelter; or just being there to listen and help in any way they can."

“The Emergency Services Cup will not only pay tribute to these wonderful people now, but also each and every time the Storm and Dragons meet, and I think that’s fitting recognition of the services these people provide now and in the future.”

To add to the occasion, international music act Chris Isaak will entertain the crowd at half-time by performing two songs, while local act Anthony Callea will perform two of his songs before the game, as well as sing the Australia national anthem.

Gates open at 5.00pm with the under-20’s kicking-off their 2009 campaign at 5.35pm. The NRL clash will kick-off at 7.35pm.

Tickets for the game can be purchased through Ticketek on 132 849, or through www.ticketek.com.au