Note: This website was automatically translated, so some terms or nuances may not be completely accurate.
MetLife Insurance held a press conference on January 16 at Tokyo Garden Terrace Kioicho in Chiyoda Ward regarding the naming rights agreement for "Seibu Dome," the home stadium of the Saitama Seibu Lions.
Under the agreement, the company acquired the naming rights to Seibu Dome. Starting March 1, the stadium will be known as "MetLife Dome." The contract period is five years.
From left: Seibu Lions President Hajime Igou, President Goto, CEO Sher, MetLife Life Insurance Senior Managing Executive Officer Atsushi Tanigai
At the outset, CEO Sashin N. Shah stated, "We are delighted to realize this partnership with the Seibu Lions. MetLife was founded in New York 150 years ago and has operated in Japan for over 44 years. We view Japan as a key growth market for our company. This sponsorship is an unparalleled opportunity to grow our brand." Referring to his childhood baseball experience, he added, "When I came to live in Japan, I was delighted to discover the immense popularity of baseball. I look forward to cheering at Lions home games."
Takashi Goto, President of Seibu Holdings, stated, "This year is an epoch-making year for the Lions. Under new manager Hatsuhiko Tsuji, we will fight as one team aiming for the championship. We sincerely hope CEO Sher will come cheer us on at the ballpark. We will certainly live up to his expectations."
After the signing ceremony, CEO Sha and President Goto exchanged Lions uniforms and MetLife caps, sharing a firm handshake. The jersey numbers "39" and "44" represent the 39 years since the Lions' founding and the 44 years since MetLife Life Insurance obtained its license to operate in Japan.
Next on stage, Saitama Seibu Lions Manager Tsuji and Captain Eito Asamura appeared as guests.
Manager Tsuji commented, "With the new year, I become the new manager and Asamura becomes the new captain. As the stadium also becomes MetLife Dome, we will unite with a fresh mindset alongside the players and aim for the championship. We ask for your continued support." Player Asamura expressed his determination for the season, stating, "I want to win the championship and be able to report good news in the fall. The stadium, the name, and my uniform number are all changing. I aim to achieve a batting average around .300, 30 home runs, and 100 RBIs."
The team's official performers, the "Blue Legends," and mascots "Leo" and "Lina" demonstrated the "MetLife Exercise." Manager Tsuji and player Asamura joined in, waving towels.
This exercise was created to respond to the growing health awareness in an aging society, with choreography by KABA-chan. It will be performed during the dance time at the end of the bottom of the 5th inning at games held at MetLife Dome.
Lions Official Website:
http://www.seibulions.jp/stadium/
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