Epi Taione
London Welsh are offering its supporters a unique opportunity to win dinner or a round of golf with Epi Taione or Ed Jackson, simply by bidding on eBay.
Normally people buy laptops, used cars, mp3 players and items for the home on eBay, but the Exiles have come up with an innovative auction offer – bidders can buy the sponsorship of a professional rugby player, to include either dinner or a round of golf with their hero, if they are the highest bidder.
The standard eBay listing says ‘The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear, but it is fully operational and functions as intended’ but that’s to be expected for a rugby player!
Tongan star Taione and talented forward Jackson are both available to bid on just by click following the below link, so let’s see who gets the highest bid!
Tonga international Taione, who famously dyed his hair green for sponsor Paddy Power during 2007 Rugby World Cup, and Jackson will be available to purchase until September 16.
“If the bidding doesn’t go well maybe I’ll buy myself,” said Taione. “It’s an exciting project and I’ll make sure friends and family will help out so we achieve our goal. Yes, it’s good fun, but the real story behind this is that it’s tough in the current economic climate to try and find sponsorship. However, we are prepared to explore anyway to get London Welsh back where it should be.”
Taione won 18 caps for Tonga in an international career spanning nine years and included the 1999 and 2007 Rugby World Cups. His former clubs include Newcastle Falcons, Sale Sharks, Harlequins, Racing Metro 92, Sanyo Wild Knights and Natal Sharks.
In 2009 he appeared in Clint Eastwood’s film Invictus about South Africa’s 1995 Rugby World Cup triumph, alongside Matt Damon and Morgan Freeman. He joined London Welsh in 2010.
Jackson arrived at London Welsh this summer from Championship rivals Doncaster Knights, where he made 24 appearances last season, scoring three tries, to help the club to a sixth place finish and reach the promotion play-offs.
Jackson came through the youth ranks at Bath and represented England at U18s, and was part of the side that won the Four Nations in 2006. He also led his country at U16 level.