Kit
launches are always an eventful time of year and at Out On The Full it seemed only right to review a couple of the most interesting ones!
In days before a new kit is launched the speculation builds and often a few far-fetched ideas are debated between friends and on social media. Once launched some kits are instantly loved whilst
others are deemed to be ‘growers’. Great kit certainly helps players to feel
the part and for the Cardiff Blues their 2014/15 European attire also serves another
purpose.
The aim of their new shirt is stated clearly in its motto; ‘Be
Bold. Be Proud. Be Green’, yes the Blues’ new European kit is bright, fluorescent
green. The new shirt's purpose is to encourage the club and its fans to be 'greener' in their everyday lives and on match days. The kit has been supported by club sponsor DS Smith, DS Smith are recycling company that focus on driving initiatives to achieve zero waste. The words ‘Turning
The Blues Green’ are printed across the back of the new shirt to act as a
constant reminder and in addition to this there are simple green initiatives that were announced during the launch day at the BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park. First, a photo competition where selfies must be taken on public transport on the way to
matches, second, green recyclable cups being used throughout the stadium and finally of course
a percentage of each shirt being donated to Keep Wales Tidy.
The shirt is made by Canterbury, a brand synonymous with rugby
and one that is always at the forefront of new ideas and innovation. Now I’m fully aware that some people may be
thinking that this is all little tenuous and forced however as a rugby fan and
a marketer I have to say that I’m impressed with the initiative. The campaign
is for a great cause, it does not affect the performance of the players because cutting edge technology is still used in the shirt and the only difference is that it just happens to be
green.
The Cardiff Blues are a united club, they have shown great strength during an extremely difficult time over the past few months with the tragic injury to club member Owen Williams and if they can drive awareness an action for a great cause through their green jerseys then in my eyes this only adds to their already admirable credentials.
The Cardiff Blues are a united club, they have shown great strength during an extremely difficult time over the past few months with the tragic injury to club member Owen Williams and if they can drive awareness an action for a great cause through their green jerseys then in my eyes this only adds to their already admirable credentials.
