DAS CEO, Paul Asplin with BAWFC players Natasha Harding and Corinne Yorsten
The ‘Vixens’, Bristol Academy Women’s Football Club, have announced a new sponsorship deal which sees Bristol-based legal expenses insurer, DAS UK become the club’s main sponsor for the 2014-2015 season.
DAS has a history of community involvement and sports sponsorship within Bristol and this deal represents a further commitment by the company to its home city. The announcement follows the appointment of Dave Edmondson as the club’s new head coach; the ability for the club to be able to appoint a full time manager was made possible by the DAS sponsorship. Edmondson was appointed following the departure of Mark Sampson, who took up the role as England Women’s National Team Manager in December.
The £50k one year deal, which is the largest financial shirt sponsorship for an independent club in the women’s game, will see the BAWFC players sporting the insurer’s logo on their shirts as they embark on their fourth campaign in the WSL and once again enter into the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Last year the club had the most successful season in its history, finishing runners up in the FA Cup Final against Arsenal and capping a superb league campaign by finishing second in the 2013 Women’s Super League (WSL).
Paul Asplin, CEO DAS UK Group said; “DAS has its headquarters in Bristol and whilst we employ over 700 staff nationally, the majority of our people are based in Bristol, so being involved in our local community is extremely important to us. It is our pleasure to sponsor the Vixens and connect our brand to theirs and the rising popularity of women’s football.”
President of Bristol Academy WFC, Kevin Hamblin, said: “We needed a sponsor befitting both the local and national appeal of the club. DAS is a perfect fit and their sponsorship will enable us to develop the club and build on the success we have had. We are delighted to have them on board.”
