Continuing a major marketing push in the sports world, the US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism has launched a new multi-year partnership with the Chicago Cubs baseball team. 

The partnership “creates an unparalleled opportunity for the U.S. Virgin Islands to reach deep into the Midwest market and connect with a broad range of potential travelers,” according to a statement. 

It’s the latest in what has been a long association between the USVI and the Cubs, dating back to Elrod “Ellie” Hendricks, a native of St Thomas who played as a catcher for the Cubs back in 1972. 

The move is part of a strategic plan to partner with teams that have particularly passionate, deep-rooted fan bases, one that has resulted in similar deals with sports franchises like the Boston Red Sox and New York Jets. 

The Cubs have played at the iconic Wrigley Field since 1916.

“Being associated with these two all-American institutions is a marketing highlight for the tourism promotion for the U.S. Virgin Islands. With a direct flight from Chicago to St. Thomas, the U.S. Virgin Islands is an easy trip for Midwesterners,” said Joseph Boschulte, commissioner of the USVI Department of Tourism. 

Fans who attended a recent game had the opportunity to “experience island life in Chicago” with Moko Jumbies, cultural dancers and a DJ at Gallagher Way before the game. 

A giant sandcastle was also built on Gallgaher before the game. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome the U.S. Virgin Islands to the Cubs’ family,” said Cubs Vice President of Corporate Partnerships Alex Seyferth. “Through this partnership, we hope to bring more of the vibrant island life to historic Wrigley Field in the coming seasons and channel the wonderful Caribbean lifestyle through pre- and postgame activations as well as offseason collaborations.”