Robert Bailey, Freelance Writer

The Jamaica Netball Association (JNA) and the Sunshine Girls received another big boost ahead of their upcoming tour of New Zealand and Australia later this month, with a $16.5 million one-year renewable policy from prominent health insurance provider Blue Cross.

David Garel, vice-president of marketing and sales at Blue Cross, made the announcement on Thursday morning at a breakfast which was held in honour of the Sunshine Girls for their outstanding achievements over the years, at the company's head office on Hope Road.

The deal will cover 30 members of the JNA which includes players and administrators. The money will cover accidental deaths, dismemberment, permanent disability and medical expenses reimbursement.

Other sponsors

The other companies joining force with Blue Cross are Firm Insurance Brokers, Juici Patties, Spa Aesthetique, Wynlee Distributors and Monarch Pharmacy, all of which have contributed either cash of kind.

Garel said his company is happy to be associated with the Sunshine Girls who have been making Jamaicans proud for a number of years.

"We noticed that there weren't any sort of personal accident coverage," said Garel.

"They (Sunshine Girls) have been representing the country since 1963 and they have been doing very well. In fact, they are number three in the world behind Australia and New Zealand.

"So, we felt that it is timely that as corporate entities that we galvanise corporate support through our first leg which is offering personal accidents insurance coverage to members of the Sunshine Girls and administrative staff who travel with the team."

Marva Bernard, president of the JNA, was delighted.

"I am extremely happy because every time whenever we get gifts in either cash or kind it shows that people appreciate the work that the girls are making and would like to make it easier for them to go out there and train and play hard for the country," Bernard said.

"We welcome all the support that we get, from the little man who can support us in a song, to the big corporation who can give us mega bucks."

"We welcome all the support that we get, ... to the big corporation who can give us mega bucks."