Brave JRLA expands league without sponsorship

BY PAUL BURROWES Observer writer

Saturday, June 25, 2011

THOUGH without a title sponsor, the Jamaica Rugby League Association (JRLA) National Championship has expanded to nine teams across Kingston, St Andrew and St Catherine.

JLRA chairman Ventley Brown has even expressed confidence that the sport "will grow even further over the coming months".

In matches last weekend, defending champions Vauxhall Rugby Club routed Denham Town All-Stars 72-10, Duhaney Park Red Sharks repelled Jamaica Defence Force, 42-16, GC Foster Lions and Spanish Town Vikings earned 30-0 wins after Portmore Eliminators and Gregory Park Maroons failed to honour their fixtures.

"There are many Jamaicans interested in playing this tough, physical sport, and the association will continue to facilitate the expansion and growth of this great game," added Brown, as the national championship enters its seventh year.

Vauxhall, Duhaney Park, Maxfield Star Steppers, Denham Town All-Stars and JDF compete in the Kingston and St Andrew Division.

Portmore are defending champions in the St Catherine Division, which also comprises GC Foster, Spanish Town and Gregory Park.

The top-four teams from Kingston will join the top-four from St Catherine in the national play-offs, with the grand finals set for August 27.

"This year's competition is of added significance as players are aiming to be a part of Jamaica's national team that will take part in the nation's first World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and the USA on October 19 and 23, respectively, in Pennsylvania, USA.

"Players and coaches have really stepped up. Everyone wants to be a part of the qualifiers and help create history for Jamaica," Brown pointed out.

"We are getting better every year and we will continue to improve," he stressed.

Relatively new in Jamaica, the rugby league — like other minor sports — struggles to attract funding and sponsorship.

Despite partnerships with Virgin Atlantic and Kukri Sports as kit sponsors, the local rugby league association wants more backing from local companies as only Supreme Ventures and Body Fitness Pro Centre have lent their support in Jamaica's bid for World Cup glory.

Development co-ordinator Romeo Monteith expresses his frustration on not getting more local support.

"For us it's really disappointing, when we really need the support of entities such as the Sports Development Foundation and local companies, it is not forthcoming. However, should we gain qualification to the World Cup, then the real expenses will arise," he said.

In Rugby League National Championships, Duhaney Park Red Sharks host Vauxhall today at 1:30 pm, while Maxfield Star Steppers entertain Jamaica Defence Force at 3:30.

Tomorrow, GC Foster Lions welcome Gregory Park Maroons at 2:00.