The Seattle Orcas are proud to announce Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) as its official healthcare partner starting in the 2025 season of Major League Cricket. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in both organizations' commitment to community health, wellness, and fan engagement.

A Groundbreaking Partnership for the Community

In a unique and forward-thinking collaboration, the Seattle Orcas and VMFH will work together to develop health programs and initiatives that aim to inspire Orcas fans and the broader Puget Sound community to live healthier, more active lives. This partnership extends beyond just healthcare services—it is a commitment to promoting wellness through sports, fan engagement, and community outreach. For example, health screenings may be offered to fans as a way to detect early signs of certain health conditions and connect them with care. The Orcas and VMFH will also offer health education and other resources to fans throughout the season.

"We are excited to partner with the Seattle Orcas, a team that shares our passion for fostering health and vitality in the community," said Ketul Patel, Chief Executive Officer, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and President, CommonSpirit Health, Northwest Region. "This collaboration is about more than healthcare; it's about creating long-lasting, positive impacts for the people in our region. Together, we’ll lead efforts to improve health and wellness, encourage physical activity, support healthy lifestyles, and give back to the community."

Aligned in Mission

The Seattle Orcas' commitment to their fans and the region resonates deeply with VMFH’s mission to serve the people of the Pacific Northwest. This partnership is rooted in a shared vision of community, health, and the future of the region’s sporting culture.

“We see this as a great time to team up with the Seattle Orcas and help them build their fan base,” said Mr. Patel. “We are proud to be selected as their Official Medical Services Provider to ensure that healthcare needs for the team, their players, and their supporters are met with clinical excellence and compassion. The shared commitment between VMFH and the Orcas to elevate the community makes this affiliation a natural fit.”

An Investment in the Future

As the official healthcare partner of the Seattle Orcas, VMFH will be deeply involved in shaping the health and wellness initiatives that benefit the team’s players and help them live healthier lives.

"We are thrilled to welcome Virginia Mason Franciscan Health as the Official Medical Services Provider of the Seattle Orcas. Their commitment to excellence in healthcare aligns perfectly with our mission to support our players, staff, and the broader cricket community. This partnership ensures that our team receives top-tier medical care, while also promoting health and wellness among our fans and the growing cricket community in the Pacific Northwest. Together, we look forward to strengthening the sport and making a lasting impact both on and off the field." — Hemant Dua, CEO, Seattle Orcas

The partnership also presents exciting opportunities for VMFH patients and employees. The Orcas will visit VMFH hospitals and engage with staff and patients to further connect their shared mission and bring the Orcas team spirit to those who may not be able to make it to a match.

About the Seattle Orcas

The Seattle Orcas are a professional cricket team based in Seattle, Washington, competing in Major League Cricket. The team is dedicated to bringing the excitement of international cricket to the Pacific Northwest and building a strong, engaged fan base. Through its innovative approach to sports and community engagement, the Seattle Orcas are committed to promoting health, inclusivity, and the joy of cricket. For more information about the Seattle Orcas, please visit www.seattleorcas.com.

About Virginia Mason Franciscan Health

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) is an integrated health system serving the Puget Sound region, including 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites. Founded in 1891, VMFH embraces its long history of caring for the most vulnerable, especially the poor and underserved, and meeting the evolving health care needs of the vibrant, diverse communities it serves. VMFH is a proud home to the Bailey-Boushay House, the first skilled nursing and outpatient chronic care management program in the United States designed specifically to meet the needs of people with HIV/AIDS, and the Benaroya Research Institute, an internationally recognized institution for autoimmune disease research. VMFH is part of CommonSpirit, one of the nation’s largest health systems, dedicated to advancing health for all people. Learn more at www.vmfh.org