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Maliban strengthens 70-year sporting legacy with S. Thomas’ College hockey

Maliban, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected and enduring brands, has further strengthened its long-standing commitment to sport by partnering with S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, to support the College’s rich hockey tradition and inspire its next generation of athletes.

This landmark partnership highlights Maliban’s continued dedication to empowering youth through sport, while celebrating the College’s proud hockey legacy that spans over 90 years. With this collaboration, Maliban reinforces its belief in sport as a platform for discipline, teamwork, and excellence – values that resonate with its own 70-year journey as a trusted household brand.

Hockey at S. Thomas’ College dates back to 1929, making it one of the earliest schools in Sri Lanka to introduce the game competitively. Over the decades, Thomian hockey has produced championship teams and national representatives, nurturing generations who embody grit, sportsmanship, and the Thomian spirit. The annual encounters against rivals such as Royal, Trinity, and Wesley are enduring highlights of the school calendar, uniting tradition and passion on the field.

As part of this collaboration, Maliban comes on board as Title Sponsor of the S. Thomas’ College Hockey Programme for the 2025 season, providing renewed momentum for player development and competitive success.

Positha Perera, Group Head of Corporate Communications, Maliban Group of Companies:

“Maliban has always believed in the power of sport to shape futures, instill discipline, and inspire excellence. Our 70-year journey has been one of nurturing communities and empowering youth, and this partnership with S. Thomas’ College is a continuation of that vision. By supporting Thomian hockey, we are not only celebrating a proud tradition but also ensuring that future generations of players have the chance to pursue their passion with confidence and pride.”

The Warden, S. Thomas’ College:

“Hockey at S. Thomas' College has a storied history, producing numerous championship teams over the past decades. This year, we are thrilled to announce a title sponsorship for our hockey programme. I extend my thanks to Maliban Biscuits for coming on board to support Hockey and the young sportsmen. Additionally, I would like to thank the Old Thomians Hockey Union (OTHU) for their invaluable role in facilitating this partnership for the College.”

Duminda Karunaratne, Secretary, Old Thomians Hockey Union (OTHU):

“The Old Thomians Hockey Union (OTHU) extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Positha Perera for recognizing our request and enabling Maliban Biscuit Pvt Ltd to sponsor College Hockey. This support not only strengthens our legacy of excellence, dating back to 1920’s, but also provide both parties with well-deserved recognition through this high-profile partnership.”

Head Coach, Mr. Chandana Bandara:

“As the Head Coach of the St. Thomas’ College hockey team, I am deeply grateful to Maliban Biscuit Pvt Ltd for their generous title sponsorship, which marks a significant milestone. With this backing, I am confident our team will strive for exceptional results in the 2025 season.”

This initiative builds on Maliban’s growing role in Sri Lanka’s sporting landscape. From becoming the first Sri Lankan brand to sponsor an international rugby team – the New Zealand Under 85kg Rugby Team’s historic return to Sri Lanka after 70 years – to supporting the national men’s and women’s rugby squads, Maliban has consistently demonstrated its commitment to both grassroots and elite levels of sport.

Through this new partnership with S. Thomas’ College, Maliban once again underscores its belief in inspiring future champions and strengthening the country’s sporting fabric for generations to come.