Barfoot & Thompson gives prime jersey real estate to Blues fans in 30-year celebration
Some new names hit the field at Eden Park on Friday night as Barfoot & Thompson gave up its place on the back of the Blues jersey to recognise supporters as part of its 30-year partnership with the team.
Instead of Barfoot & Thompson, the prime real estate on the back of each jersey featured the names of real-life fans like Jacquelyn & Lennard, Rebecca & Graham, Ula & Kaydence, Clark & Matt, Raey & Raesha, and Takahiro & Keita.
And it didn’t stop there; the supporters’ names extended beyond the jersey, appearing across in-stadium screens, digital field displays and during the live broadcast.
The special game-day gesture was Barfoot & Thompson’s way of saying thanks to fans as the company marked a 30-year sponsorship milestone with the Blues.
“The Blues jersey is a special place to be,” says Barfoot & Thompson Managing Director Peter Thompson. “After three decades of backing the team, it felt right to share that valuable space with the people who’ve been cheering alongside us, the fans.”
Surprise reveal celebrates all supporters
The names were revealed just before kick-off in a moment designed to celebrate not only those featured, but the wider Blues community.
“These names are just a small nod to the tens of thousands of supporters who have backed the Blues over the years, and the generations still to come,” says Thompson.
“They represent the loyalty, passion and pride that sit at the heart of the Blues story.”
Together, the names reflect the many faces of the Blues whānau and the many ways supporters show up for their favourite team – from long-time loyalists and multi-generational fans, to new supporters and members of the wider club community.
Real estate in the DNA, rugby in the blood
At 30 years and counting, Barfoot & Thompson’s partnership with the Blues predates the team’s first kick-off in 1996, making it one of the longest-running professional sports sponsorships in New Zealand.
The company’s logo has appeared on the jersey for over a decade, since 2013.
And while real estate is in the company’s DNA, rugby is in its blood.
The company’s connection to the game dates back to Maurice Thompson (the original Thompson in Barfoot & Thompson), who was both a talented player and referee.
That passion carries on today through Managing Director Peter Thompson, whose connection to rugby began at a young age and has now spanned decades of involvement in the game.
“Like so many Blues fans, rugby has always been part of our family,” says Thompson. “It brings people together, creates lifelong memories and plays an important role in our communities.”
“That’s why backing teams like the Blues continues to matter to us.”
That support has extended beyond the professional game, with Barfoot & Thompson and its staff involved in Blues community initiatives and the Blues Charitable Trust, grassroots rugby across the region, and player and coaching development through the Blues Family Foundation.
Blues CEO Karl Budge says the fan-first gesture was a fitting tribute that helped bring the community spirit of the partnership to life.
“To celebrate 30 years with Barfoot & Thompson in a way that recognises our fans makes this moment even more special.
“Putting our fans on the jersey is a powerful reminder that they’re at the heart of everything we do. Our supporters create the atmosphere, the identity and the pride around this club, and their energy and support play a huge role in what this team represents on and off the field.”
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