September 21, 2005
Blue Cross of Jamaica is the major sponsor of the Kingston and St. Andrew Football Association (KSAFA) Under 17 Football Competition, set to begin this Saturday, July 23. The company will be providing cash sponsorship of $200,000 as well as complimentary individual health insurance, bringing the sponsorship package to a total value $800,000.
The announcement was made by Dr. the Honourable Errol Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer, Blue Cross of Jamaica, at a press conference held at the Blue Cross of Jamaica Corporate Offices on Wednesday, July 20. Over 30 football clubs will be participating in the competition.
According to Dr. Morrison, in committing to being the competition's major sponsor, BCJ is playing a vital role in national development and this involvement signals the company's desire to contribute to social development via sports. He said that after 50 years of providing health care services to Jamaicans, BCJ remains committed to national development.
He noted that the Under 17 competition is particularly important in that it provides an opportunity for a major segment of the youth population, as it engages them in a disciplined and organized activity during the Summer Holidays. The Under 17 competition provides an opportunity for many young men, home on holidays to become involved in an activity, which will further develop their talents and social skills as well as providing them with educational opportunities.
Further, Dr. Morrison said "as a health care organization, we are acutely aware of the human development potential of participation in sports, particularly the health and wellness benefits. We know that sports can be a vehicle for the development of fitness and ultimately healthy living, which has a crucial role to play in national development."
Speaking at the press conference, President of KSAFA, Ambassador Stewart
Stephenson, revealed that the competition is being played for the Dickie Coke
Trophy. He said the competition was first staged by the late D&G executive
Dickie Coke, who for many years ran the competition selflessly garnering tremendous
development for the sport. Many of Jamaica's top national players, the ambassador
said, are products of the Under 17 league and this competition continues to
play a pivotal role in the development of these players.
