JNBS participates in JNA's 'Adopt-a-Player' programme

Saturday, February 09, 2008

The Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) has joined several other corporate entities in the reinstated 'Adopt-A-Player' programme being piloted by the Jamaica Netball Association (JNA).

A sponsor of the netball Open League for the 15th consecutive year and an active contributor to sports development, the Society adopted Sasher-Gaye Henry, one of the key players on the Sunshine Girls' squad, who was pivotal to the team's third place ranking in last November's World Netball Championships held in New Zealand.

Announcing JN's participation in the programme, Leesa Kow, acting executive for marketing, promotions and sales, said that it was a natural progression for the Society to adopt one of the JNA players, to provide direct financial support.

"We recognise the far-reaching benefits that sports provide our athletes, country, and the boost that it gives to the national psyche, therefore, we welcome the opportunity to adopt a JNA player; and to participate in guiding the directions of one of its team members," said Kow.

She explained that, as part of her sponsorship, Sasher-Gaye, who teaches at Mona High School, has volunteered to assist the Society with its remedial reading and mentoring programme for children who participate in development programmes at The Source, operated by JNBS at Bryce Plaza in August Town.

"The Source is a literal oasis for young people in August Town, with its cyber café for students to learn computer technology, surf the Internet, and do their homework assignments," Kow explained. "And, in this context, we welcome valuable assistance that Sasher-Gaye can contribute to the youngsters in August Town."

Speaking against the background of JNBS' sponsorship over the years, Marva Bernard, JNA president, noted that the Adopt-A-Player Programme was originally introduced in the early 1990s, and was reintroduced last year to provide direct assistance to players.

"We welcome the Jamaica National adoption of one of our key players, Sasher-Gaye, and we are confident that her volunteer mentoring sessions at The Source will be beneficial to her, as well as the young people who use the facilities at that resource centre," Bernard stated.

Jamaica National is also the lead sponsor of this year's Eastern Sports Champs, which took place this past Monday and Tuesday; and is a platinum sponsor of the Reggae Boyz' bid to play in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Finals in South Africa.