Press Releases

HORSHAM, Pa. – June 1, 2017 –The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company (Penn Mutual), who, for the last three years has aligned business efforts and invested in the growth of rugby through various sponsorships, is excited to announce that their “Rugby Rising” original documentary was awarded a bronze Telly Award. The one-hour documentary created in partnership with NBC Sports, Jalbert Productions and United World Sports, received the prestigious award in April, in the Videography/Cinematography category.

Rugby has been increasing in popularity, and Penn Mutual, who sponsors the annual Collegiate Rugby Championship (CRC) and Varsity Cup competitions, created the Rugby Rising documentary to provide an in-depth, behind the scenes look at the growing sport. The film introduced viewers to Madison Hughes, captain of the USA men’s 7s team, and Kristen Thomas of the USA women’s 7s team, and followed each team’s journey to the 2016 Olympic Games. The documentary also gave an inside look at the energetic rivalry between BYU and University of California, and the Penn State women’s team.

The Telly Awards have been known as a premier recognition for many years, honoring the best in television, cable, digital, streaming, and non-broadcast productions. Each year the awards receive over 13,000 entries from across the globe. 

“To receive this award for the first-ever Rugby Rising documentary is an honor to say the least,” said Tom Harris, EVP, Distribution at Penn Mutual. “In creating the documentary, we worked with Jalbert Productions to capture and showcase the values of this growing sport and its players that we as a company feel so connected to, and to be a part of this recognition is thrilling.”

“The passion of the rugby community—the players, the coaches, the fans—was special to capture on film,” said Jay Jalbert, founder of Jalbert Productions. “Receiving a Telly Award is a true honor, and reflects a joint commitment by Penn Mutual, NBCSports and United World Sports to grow this sport nationally.”

The company has already produced a second edition to the award-winning documentary that will air on Sunday, June 4 at 12:30 pm EST during the Penn Mutual Collegiate Rugby Championship on NBC. You can watch the award winning Rugby Rising by visiting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tbhafASC5c&t=335s

About The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company 
Since 1847, Penn Mutual has been driven by our purpose to create a world of possibilities.  At the heart of this purpose is the belief that purchasing 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., Registered Investment Advisor and wholly owned subsidiary. Member FINRA/SIPC. Visit Penn Mutual on the Internet at http://www.pennmutual.com/.

Contact

Alexandra Spurgeon
Gregory FCA
(610) 228-2140

Keith Bratz
Penn Mutual
(215) 956-7907

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