Rocky Elsom named Volvo Ambassador

Rocky Elsom today becomes a Volvo Cars Ambassador, further strengthening the brand’s existing partnership with the HSBC Waratahs.

“I’m delighted to be back on board with the boys at Volvo,” said Elsom, whose previous association with Volvo ended in 2010.

As part of the Ambassador programme, Elsom is driving a Volvo XC60 T6, complete with Polestar-optimised engine management software.

“The vehicle I have is one of the more powerful vehicles on the road and I’m enjoying driving it,” he added.

Elsom returned to NSW in 2012 after spending the past three seasons with Leinster, winning European Player of the Year in 2009 and helping the team to European Cup victory, and the Brumbies.  One of the world’s premier backrow players, he left the HSBC Waratahs at the end of the 2008 Super Rugby season having played in the 2005 Super 12 and 2008 Super 14 Finals.

“We’ve had a long relationship with Rocky over the years and we’re pleased to extend it further,” said Matt Braid, Volvo Cars Australia Managing Director.

“A quick look at the history books shows just how influential Rocky has been – he’s an intrinsic part of rugby in Australia. But his off-field attributes are equally important – he’s a man of character and integrity, so we’re delighted to have him on board our Ambassador programme.”

A former Wallaby captain, he will lead the HSBC Waratahs this season when he returns to the pitch following hamstring surgery.  That comeback could take place this Saturday against the Melbourne Rebels, with Elsom today confirming his return to full fitness and availability for selection, which Head Coach Michael Foley will announce tomorrow.  

“I’m happy to be back,’ he said today.  “I knew it would be a long haul when I had the surgery, it will be great to be free from restriction.

“Playing is the first step, even if it’s just a small amount at first.  It’s about getting back and being effective for the team, that’s all I will be looking for at the moment.”
Volvo Cars is a proud partner of the HSBC Waratahs and the brand’s core values of safety, innovation and sustainability are echoed by the HSBC Waratahs, who exemplify leadership, innovation, strength and performance.

Volvo Cars will be working with Elsom and the HSBC Waratahs to celebrate the 2012 FxPro Super Rugby season through an activation and leverage schedule around games and key Volvo Cars events and activities nationwide.

While his start to the season has been curtailed by injury, the widely-respected flanker and leader is now looking forward to taking to the field as the HSBC Waratahs continue their 2012 FxPro Super Rugby campaign, adding to the 66 NSW caps he has already amassed.

Another Volvo Cars ambassador, Matt Shirvington, already shares a relationship with the HSBC Waratahs. The former Olympic sprinter is in his second year as speed coach working to develop speed and agility across the squad.

Volvo Cars is already working with the HSBC Waratahs to celebrate the 2012 FxPro Super Rugby through an active schedule of pre-game activity on the field at the start of each home match, precinct activity before each home match, and naming rights to every try scored at both the team’s home venues, the Allianz Stadium and ANZ Stadium.