Pennicook

Robert Bailey, Freelance Writer

JAMAICA'S SUNSHINE Girls' preparations for this year's World Netball Championships in New Zealand received a $9-million boost from national airline, Air Jamaica, yesterday.

Air Jamaica made the announcement of the one-year deal at a press conference at the Alhambra Inn. The sponsorship agreement will run from April 1 this year through to March 31 next year and will cover all Jamaica Netball Association (JNA) trips for teams and officials.

Commitment and dedication

Paul Pennicook, senior vice president of Air Jamaica, said his company was pleased to be associated with the JNA.

"Over the years Air Jamaica has assisted with concessionary fares, albeit on a limited basis," said Pennicook

"However, the growth of the senior Sunshine Girls and their success in remaining one of the top-five teams over time speaks volumes to their commitment and dedication," said Pennicook, whose company is also the official carrier of the Reggae Boyz.

"You will recall that they were ranked third in the International Federation Netball Association (IFNA) World Netball Cham-pionships held here in 2003.

"Not to be outdone, the Under-20, or middle squad, has also maintained the trend set by the seniors by always being ranked in the top-five in their competitions."

JNA president, Marva Bernard, was very emotional throughout the proceedings and said the sponsorship meant a lot to the development of the sport in the country.

"We cannot over-emphasise what this means to us. I am sure you will recognise that in order for us to prepare our teams to achieve the highest goals - which we are proud to state is to be world champions - requires all of our athletes to not only to be properly trained but also to possess the required skills and to be focussed on our mission," said Bernard.

"We are aware of the contribution that Air Jamaica has made to sports in general, not only through the participation of their employees, but through financial and other forms of assistance," Bernard said.

Can now travel

"In recent years, we have turned down offers to tour overseas because we just could not afford the airfares. We can now travel to other countries to compete with them well ahead of premier events," she said. "Airfare is a big part of our budgets so all teams will now benefit from this sponsorship."

The Sunshine Girls are scheduled to travel to New Zealand in July for a two-Test friendly series before heading to Australia for another friendly series spanning three Tests.