Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
In a landmark development for domestic football, the Eastern Region Soccer League (ERSL) has secured a sponsorship deal with Pacific Storm, a local cigarette manufacturer firm.
The launch of the sponsorship deal is scheduled for March 29 at Mucheke Stadium in Masvingo, where the package will be revealed.
The league is set to be renamed to The Pacific Storm Eastern Region Division One Soccer League.
ERSL Chairman Wisdom Simba revealed that the sponsorship deal will provide monetary rewards to clubs based on their final standings at the end of the season.
While the exact financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, Simba said that the partnership extends beyond direct funding, with additional investments expected through branding initiatives and promotional activities.
“We managed to secure sponsorship for the whole league, and this is a monumental step forward for us,” Simba said.
“At the moment, we can’t divulge the actual worth of the deal because, outside the core package, there is still a lot of money to be poured in through branding and other activities, such as the sponsorship launch.
“Giving a figure now would only distort the real amount of money being invested. But I can confidently say this is a good deal for the ERSL.”
Simba highlighted the transformative impact the deal will have on the league and its clubs, both in terms of financial stability and overall growth.
“This sponsorship is very important for the league. It means a lot for the clubs and the league in terms of monetary value,” Simba added.
“For the first time, our league will have a brand identity, which will elevate its profile and provide a platform for further development.”
Kudakwashe Chiutsi ,Marketing Manager Pacific Cigarettes, confirmed the development.
“Yes, I can confirm that Pacific Storm has partnered with the Eastern Region Division One Soccer League as principal sponsors.
“This sponsorship package is part of our company’s community social responsibility initiative, aimed at enhancing the quality of domestic football.
“As you may know, Pacific Storm has a long-standing commitment to supporting local football, having been involved in various initiatives over the years.
“Further details of the sponsorship package will be unveiled at the official launch event, scheduled for March 29 at Mucheke Stadium in Masvingo.”
