New Orleans Saints and Pelicans Extend Partnership with Ochsner Health to Enhance… read more
The New Orleans Saints and Pelicans are thrilled to announce the extension of their long-standing partnership with Ochsner Health, a valued partner of the Saints since 2005 and the Pelicans since their inception in 2012. This continued collaboration will focus on advancing community engagement and health initiatives across the Gulf South region, further solidifying Ochsner’s commitment to the Saints, Pelicans, and the New Orleans community.
The partnership between Ochsner Health and the Saints and Pelicans extends beyond a traditional sponsorship, with a strong emphasis on shared community impact. Over the years, the partnership has supported numerous initiatives aimed at improving youth sports development, including the NFL Play Football experiences hosted by the Saints and Jr. NBA clinics organized by the Pelicans. These programs have positively impacted thousands of young athletes across the region, promoting healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Gayle Benson, Owner of the New Orleans Saints and Governor of the New Orleans Pelicans, expressed her enthusiasm for the extended partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Ochsner Health, a cornerstone of both franchises and the New Orleans community. Together, we’re making a meaningful difference by empowering our youth, supporting the health of our fans, and enhancing the overall well-being of our community.”
Pete November, CEO of Ochsner Health, echoed Benson’s sentiments, saying, “We are so honored to be continuing our partnership with the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans. Our collaborative efforts have had such a positive impact on our communities and beyond. We are immensely grateful for Mrs. Benson’s steadfast support of our patients and our Ochsner teams.”
As part of the extended partnership, Ochsner Health will match the gifts of Gayle Benson and the NFL Foundation to the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s (GNOF) community relief fund following the Bourbon Street tragedy, bringing the total donation from Mrs. Benson, the NFL Foundation, and Ochsner to $1.5 million.
The partnership will also introduce new community initiatives, such as Joint Days of Service, which will bring together the Saints, Pelicans, and Ochsner staff to work alongside local residents on meaningful service projects that further strengthen the fabric of the New Orleans area.
In addition to its community initiatives, Ochsner continues to strengthen its commitment to supporting the health and performance of athletes. Recent renovations at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center, a state-of-the-art training facility for both the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, have been completed. The 77,504 square-foot center now boasts a fully renovated weight room, locker room, team meeting room, and dedicated spaces for both Pelicans’ office and player areas.
The upgrade is completed with new outdoor patio seating and views of the indoor practice field from inside the cafeteria. These improvements reflect the Saints’ ongoing commitment to athlete and staff wellness, providing a world-class facility that supports both performance and overall well-being.
Dennis Lauscha, President of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, commented on the extension of the partnership, saying, “The extension of our partnership with Ochsner is a testament to the strength of our relationship. Ochsner has been a true partner in helping us provide world-class healthcare and service to our athletes and the New Orleans community. We are excited to continue our work together to support and uplift the region.”
Since 2005, Ochsner Health has played an integral role in the success of both organizations, providing essential medical services and supporting the health of athletes. Ochsner’s medical teams have been there for every major moment in Saints and Pelicans history, offering expert care and ensuring the safety of players on and off the field.
