HORSHAM, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fortune 1,000 company, The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company (Penn Mutual), is eager to announce its support and sponsorship of two elite rugby athletes during their training and preparation for this year’s summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The company is proud to welcome Kristen Thomas and Madison Hughes as brand ambassadors while they train to be selected to the U.S. Olympic men’s and women’s rugby teams.
Kristen Thomas is an inspirational Philadelphia, PA native who made the switch from solo athlete on the track to team player and motivator on the rugby pitch. She began playing rugby as a walk-on during her freshman year at the University of Central Florida. Her passion for the game, work ethic and athleticism led her to excel in the sport, which was proven as she made her World Rugby Women's Sevens Series debut at São Paulo Sevens this past February. Madison Hughes is an encouraging leader who recently led the U.S. men’s rugby Sevens team to a shocking victory over the New Zealand All Blacks Sevens in the Dubai World Sevens tournament. He was captain of his college rugby team at Dartmouth and is currently captain of the U.S. Men’s Rugby Sevens team. Thomas and Hughes represent values inherent in both the sport of rugby and those prevalent within Penn Mutual, including integrity, respect, relationships, and sense of community.
“The rugby community is truly special,” said Hughes. “While we compete against other teams on the pitch, it’s important to keep in mind a sense of respect and professionalism.” Thomas adds, “It’s tradition that we congregate with the opposing team following the match, win or lose, to celebrate and strengthen the rugby community.”
As brand ambassadors, Hughes and Thomas will partner with Penn Mutual through a series of social media activities, blogs, video interviews, documentaries and personal appearances in support of Penn Mutual’s sponsorship of collegiate rugby. Hughes and Thomas will not only increase awareness of rugby as an Olympic sport, but will also spotlight Penn Mutual’s backing of the sport with collegiate rugby athletes across the country. Penn Mutual sponsors the Penn Mutual Collegiate Rugby Championship, The Penn Mutual Varsity Cup, and the National Small Collegiate Rugby Association, powered by Penn Mutual. Through the partnerships with Hughes and Thomas, and in line with its broader rugby-related initiatives, Penn Mutual seeks to attract rugby athletes interested in transitioning into a career as advisors or associates with the company.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Madison and Kristen into the Penn Mutual family,” said Eileen McDonnell, Penn Mutual’s Chairman and CEO. “We’re excited to begin working with them and proud to support them on their journey to Rio!”
About The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company
Since 1847, Penn Mutual has been driven by our noble purpose to create a world of possibilities. At the heart of this purpose is the belief that life insurance is the most protective, responsible and rewarding action a person can take, and is central to a sound financial plan. The company is committed to helping families unlock life’s possibilities through life insurance and annuity solutions. This is accomplished through a national network of financial professionals, who help clients make great things possible.
Penn Mutual supports its field representatives with brokerage services through Hornor, Townsend & Kent, Inc., (HTK) Registered Investment Advisor and wholly owned subsidiary. Member FINRA/SIPC. Visit Penn Mutual on the Internet at www.pennmutual.com.
©2016 The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company, 600 Dresher Road, Horsham, PA 19044
