The South African Rugby Union (SARU) has named Acer South Africa as the new official information technology (IT) partner of the Springboks in a two year deal.

Under the terms of this agreement, Acer SA will provide the latest technology to Springbok coaches, players and administrators, which will assist them to keep in touch with the rugby-watching public during matches in South Africa and abroad.

In exchange, Acer will be associated with the national rugby team as its sole exclusive information technology partner for the duration of the contract. The value of the contract has not been disclosed.

“Acer South Africa has always been an enthusiastic supporter of South Africa’s national sports teams, so we are really excited to be getting involved with the Springboks as the technology sponsor, especially in the year of the Rugby World Cup,” said Graham Braum, country manager for Africa and Levant at Acer. “Acer strongly believes in the ability of sports to empower, to energise and inspire people to be the best they can be and break the barriers they face.”

“We believe that this partnership is an ideal opportunity to showcase how our technology empowers people and enriches their lives, helping them to be more productive, connected and efficient,” Braum added.

“It is an ideal way to showcase our brand to many new consumers as well as to consolidate it with people who already know and use Acer’s technology every day of their lives.”

On the international front, Acer is associated with prestigious sports events including the Olympics and with global brands the likes of Ferrari and Ducati. The partnership with the Springboks is the company’s largest and most significant sporting sponsorship in South Africa to date.

“We’re pleased to welcome Acer to the Springbok family,” stated Jurie Roux, CEO of the South African Rugby Union (SARU). “Technology is a fundamental part of any business nowadays and having an outstanding partner such as Acer is critical. We look forward to a successful partnership.”

In related news, Acer also recently announced its plans to acquire US-based cloud company iGware, in order to establish its own cloud infrastructure, dubbed Acer Cloud, to serve and benefit Acer customers as well as to enhance its brand value.