Bob & Rita Marley foundations donate $500,000 to Netball Jamaica - Support for Jamaica’s Under-21 team on road to 2025 World Youth Cup

KINGSTON:

The Bob & Rita Marley Foundations, led by CEO Cedella Marley, have made a contribution of $500,000 to Netball Jamaica, marking the foundations' first sponsorship of a netball training camp.

This donation supports the Jamaica Under-21 netball team in their rigorous preparation for the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup, to be held in Gibraltar from September 19-28.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Marley said, "Supporting our young women through sport is one of the most powerful ways we can invest in the future of Jamaica.

"Netball is more than just a game, it teaches discipline, teamwork, resilience, and pride. We are proud to stand with these incredible athletes as they chase their dreams and carry the hopes of a nation," she added.

The Under-21 team is the feeder squad to the senior Sunshine Girls and has a history of impressive performances on the world stage, including a silver medal in 2000 and a bronze in 2013.

Now, under the guidance of head coach Annette Daley and assistant coach Nardia Hanson, the team is training intensively through local leagues and a dedicated summer camp running through July.

This is the final phase of their preparation for the international competition.

The donation from the Marley Foundations will assist with a range of essential needs, including nutritional supplements both locally and overseas, injury prevention and recovery items, household necessities for the training camp, and game footwear. The aim is to remove barriers that could hinder the athletes' performance and well-being.

This gesture follows the Foundations' recent completion of a J$4.5 million multi-surface court at the Trench Town Community Centre. The court, designed for both basketball and netball, reflects the Foundations' commitment to uplifting communities through sports, youth engagement, and accessible infrastructure.