By Jason Parks/ Picton Gazette
https://pictongazette.ca/post/vtc-to-sponsor-the-dukes-hockey-team
Commercial spots promoting PEC as a wintertime destination will broadcast to fans of the Wellington Dukes as part of a new agreement between the junior hockey club and Visit the County.
Like the rest of the Ontario Junior Hockey League, the Dukes provide a webcast of their home games each week through a TV app called FloHockey. Fans can tune in from anywhere in the world to hear club broadcaster Brock Ormond call the action from high above the Lehigh Arena ice.
Between periods, commercials promoting the County will lure some of those listening to catch a Dukes game in person — and enjoy all the amenities of the County at the same time.
“It reaches viewers including fans, parents, international scouts, and other teams that are tuning in from across Canada and the USA. VTC uses this digital platform to target the Dukes’ audience to promote The County as a travel destination and proud home of The Dukes,” said Rebecca Mackenzie, VTC’s Chair.
In addition to the webcast advertising agreements, Visit the County has purchased the 54’ long space below the Taskforce Lounge for a giant banner advertisement promoting the County.
Based on sponsorship package rates, the arrangement will net the Dukes about $12,000.
Dukes’ Director of Sales & Marketing, Kelly Martin, said the hockey club was thrilled to have Visit the County as a partner. She and the Dukes’ staff are exploring every avenue to help keep the team sustainable. The annual costs associated with maintaining their reputation as one of the premier development organizations in Canadian junior hockey continue to skyrocket. Putting more and more players into the NCAA and U Sports comes with a high operating costs.
“Our billet fees alone are $14,000 per month,” Ms. Martin noted. “Obtaining this type of support is so important. Visit the County understands what a staple the Wellington Dukes are to this community.”