Paul-Andre Walker, Staff Reporter
Donaldson
THE SPONSORSHIP package for the Jamaica Netball Association (JNA) Super League was increased by 40 percent by long-time sponsors Berger Paints.
The increase brings the total contribution to $1.4 million for the season. It also means that purse money for the winners will increase, but as JNA president Sharon Donaldson explains, the increase won't be linear.
Last year's winners Jamalco, went home with $100,000. If they were to pull off a repeat this year they would be the recipients of an extra $20,000.
Responding to the gesture, Donaldson explained that her organisation was happy that they have a long-standing sponsor.
Managing Director of Berger, Warren McDonald, says the increase is one way to indirectly help Jamaica's Under-21 World Championship hopes.
VERY MEANINGFUL
"This year's competition is very meaningful because all the Under-21s play in the Berger Super League so it will provide an opportunity for the young ladies to sharpen up their skills and take the crown in July," he said.
"We are very proud of our relationship with the JNA and so it is with pride that we agreed to increase the sponsorship by 40 percent this year," he added.
Donaldson explained that the sponsorship increase is welcome in a year that has proven more expensive than previous ones.
"The 40 percent increase will go towards underwriting the expenses that we have for running the league and also to give the participating teams an increased purse money.
"We have increasing costs that far exceed 40 percent but there will still be an increase in prize money, it is a difficult season for Berger and the JNA because you realise that with the Under-21s there has been a heightened bit of activity," she added.
