Expanded partnership to build on
decades-long commitment to the community
PHILADELPHIA, July 31,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Philadelphia Phillies
have announced that Independence Blue Cross (IBX), Philadelphia's hometown health insurer for
more than 85 years, has been named the team's Official Jersey Patch
Partner. The news was revealed during a press event at Citizens
Bank Park, with Phillies and IBX leaders unveiling the inaugural
jersey patch before its on-field debut at that day's
Phillies-Yankees game.
"The Philadelphia Phillies bring Greater Philadelphia together, and from fans
in the stands to stars on the field, wearing a Phillies jersey
shows a love of the game and pride in our region," said
Independence Blue Cross President and CEO Gregory E. Deavens. "IBX is proud to have our
brand cemented in Phillies history, and we are excited for the new
opportunities that this expanded partnership brings for our
members, our customers, and the communities we serve."
This long-term agreement builds upon the decades-long
partnership between both organizations, with IBX expanding upon its
role as the Official Health Insurance Partner of the Phillies to
become the team's first Official Jersey Patch sponsor. To signify
this enhanced partnership, the iconic IBX blue logo will adorn the
sleeve of each of the Phillies' team jerseys (home, away and City
Connect). Additionally, the patch will be on the team's Spring
Training and postseason jerseys.
"The Phillies were determined from the start to find the right
pinnacle partner for our coveted jersey patch," said Phillies
Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer John Middleton. "Independence Blue Cross has
been stitched into the fabric of our community for more than 85
years and is as much of a hometown team as the Philadelphia
Phillies. We are excited to celebrate IBX, an invaluable partner
for nearly four decades, as our inaugural jersey patch
sponsor."
The partnership will also expand beyond the game, as together,
IBX and the Phillies utilize their platforms for future initiatives
that will benefit fans, IBX members, associates, and the community
at large. In this way, the two organizations will build on a
longstanding partnership of support for nonprofits focused on
important health issues that includes Project HOME, the American
Cancer Society, ALS United Mid-Atlantic and the Mike Schmidt Stop
Skin Cancer Initiative.
"I have been around for as long as IBX has been a partner with
the Phillies, and the one constant through this time has been the
level of commitment both organizations have to the community," said
Phillies Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt.
"I have witnessed first-hand the tremendous support IBX has
provided for important health initiatives and causes, such as the
Mike Schmidt Stop Skin Cancer Initiative. This continued
collaboration between the Phillies and IBX will no doubt continue
to be a win for our community."
The new partnership also has support from Phillies pitcher
Aaron Nola, who will be teaming up
with IBX and the Phillies to help make a difference for those
battling ALS.
"Independence Blue Cross is the perfect partner for the
Phillies," said Nola. "I'll be proud to wear the jersey patch on my
sleeve, knowing how committed IBX is to the community, in
particular their efforts to strike out ALS. I look forward to being
a part of this important work to help those battling this awful
disease."
Both organizations will collectively strive to improve the lives
of those in the Philadelphia
region through safe, fun and family-friendly events that encourage
healthy habits and foster connections, while also creating new
opportunities to spotlight and support businesses in the
Philadelphia region.
In addition, IBX members and associates will have access to
exclusive discounts on select Phillies tickets and merchandise. The
suite level at Citizens Bank Park will be renamed the "Independence
Blue Cross Suite Level," and IBX will also have sponsorship
exclusivity within the health insurance category for the
Phillies.
IBX, a valued partner of the Phillies since the team played at
Veterans Stadium, will maintain its prominent, in-park presence at
home games through signage and activations at Citizens Bank Park.
Both organizations will also continue to team up for digital
content and media opportunities. Other highlights include IBX being
the presenting sponsor for numerous promotional events, such as the
team's popular Senior Stroll the Bases.
About Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue
Cross is the leading health insurance organization in
southeastern Pennsylvania. For
more than 85 years, IBX has been enhancing the health and
well-being of the people and communities it serves. IBX delivers
innovative and competitively priced health care products and
services; pioneers new ways to reward doctors, hospitals, and other
health care professionals for coordinated, quality care; and
supports programs and events that promote wellness. To learn more,
visit ibx.com. Connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter),
LinkedIn, and Instagram. Independence Blue Cross is an independent
licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
CONTACTS:
Bonnie Clark,
Phillies, 215-298-3223, bclark@phillies.com
Grant Gegwich, Independence Blue
Cross, 610-909-3937, grant.gegwich@ibx.com
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SOURCE Independence Blue Cross