St James under-12 netball gets new title sponsors

The St James Municipal Corporation are the new title sponsors of the St James Primary Schools Netball under-12 competition. The launch for this year’s competition took place at the Montego Bay Boys and Girls’ Club in Montego Bay yesterday.

The competition, which starts today, has been rebranded as the St James Municipal Under-12 Netball competition, with the corporation taking over from former sponsors Burger King.

Gina Haughton, president of the St James Netball Association, says she is looking forward to a competitive start.

“I am anticipating a very good turnout with coaches and their players coming out to execute different game plans as the teams met earlier in the Insports netball competition. There are some experienced players who not only have the skills, they also are aware of the rules and so we are looking to see who will outshine the other,” Haughton said. “We had a rally just last week and teams are delivering and showing that they are going to be competitive. New team Granville Primary have shown that they have skills and will be coming to display this in the competition.”

According to Haughton, 11 teams have been confirmed so far for the competition.

“Last year we had 13 teams and this year we sent invitations to 14 schools and are waiting on some principals to respond. We are expanding further out in St James,” Haughton said.

Mayor of Montego Bay Richard Vernon said the Community Development Fund which was created recently is geared towards greater social intervention and engagement.

“We have sponsored several social endeavours. The ladies needed us, and we decided to step up to the task and help them realise another successful and impactful year of netball,” Vernon said.

“I remember this competition from my days at Corinaldi Avenue Primary School, and I have seen where it has turned girls into women and paved tangible opportunities for their future. We want to continue this growth within our city and, therefore, committed to be the main sponsor for the event this year,” he added.

Lagaile Deswick, sports coordinator of Granville Primary and Infant School, said she expects the best from her team.

“I expect them to do their best because we have some really good players. That is all you can wish for. The first year they entered the Insports competition they didn’t do well and I heard they were the laughing stock. This is our second year, we entered last term and they came fourth in the overall competition,” Deswick said.