
Canterbury has today announced the launch of its brand-new content series with The British & Irish Lions “Hanging out jerseys with the Bag Man,” which captures the story of the kit man and the team’s kit throughout a Lions Series.
The content series gives a peak into the world of The British & Irish Lions’ kit man as he prepares the kits and gets the players ready to perform at their very best on the tour. The series, which is available to view through the Canterbury social channels, features behind-the-scenes footage as the team prepare for their Series with South Africa, along with interviews with the players, staff and kit man Paddy ‘Rala’ O’Reilly himself.
The Lions Series is the pinnacle of rugby, with only the best-of-the-best being selected. This unique series gives viewers behind the scenes access into the kit man’s role and journey with the team throughout the preparation and warm-up matches, as he makes sure all Lions players are supported with everything from hanging up the jerseys, replacing their ripped socks, to lighting candles in the toilets.
Rala is a stalwart of The British & Irish Lions backroom staff and will be embarking on his fourth Tour during the 2021 Series with South Africa. A veteran in the camp, Rala talks through what it means to be the kit man and highlights the importance of the squad having the best kit.
Simon Rowe, head of sports marketing at Canterbury said: “A Lions Series is an historic event that only a select number of people ever get to experience, so we’re incredibly excited to give fans a glimpse behind the scenes. There’s so many people that help The Lions get to where they are today, whether that be parents, coaches or kit men, and this series hopes to shine a light on the amazing work that often goes under the radar.
“This series heroes Rala, who’s role in supporting the team with their kit is vital to a successful tour. He understands first-hand the value of providing players with the best possible kit and we’re delighted to shine the light on Rala and his role within the team. He is the true embodiment of our #MadeFromAll as he does his utmost to help kit can help the team perform at their very highest level in every match.”
Canterbury is the official apparel partner for The British & Irish Lions for the 2021 Castle Lager Lions Series. Launched ahead of the tour, The British & Irish Lions test jersey is the Lions’ most advanced jersey ever to help players perform at their best in any conditions in South Africa. Canterbury also offers the Lions’ largest ever range of training and off-field supporter wear, meaning there is something in its offering for every single fan.
The full episode of “Hanging out jerseys with the Bag Man” is available to watch via the Canterbury Instagram and Youtube channels.