AS the Rugby Reggae Boys psyche up for their battle royal against the United States Tomahawks in today’s 2013 Rugby League World Cup Atlantic Qualifying decider at Campbell’s Field, in Camden, New Jersey, the Jamaica Rugby League Association (JRLA) has acknowledged the helping hand of the Sports Development Foundation (SDF).

The SDF backed the JLRA to the amount of $350,000 for expenses in New Jersey.

“The financial assistance is more than welcomed at a time when we really needed the help most,” said JLRA chairman Ventley Brown.

“The SDF has certainly continued on its mandate to help developing sports and this grant will help to underwrite some of our associated costs,” Brown added.

The Rugby League European Federation, through its World Cup Accelerator Programme, and sponsor Virgin Atlantic obliged with airfare expenses and free tickets for the Jamaica-based members.

On arrival in New York last weekend, the team dined at the Jamaican-owned The Door Restaurant with the sponsorship of the Irwin Clare-led Team Jamaica Bickle.

“Clare organised transportation to New Jersey and has consistently been a part of the management set-up since our arrival,” said a grateful Brown.

The European Super League-studded Jamaica team has also been participating in promotional media activities.

The rugby league chairman is hoping that the SDF will stand fully with them in a growing sport that has five universities, nine clubs, and 12 high school teams competing.

The county of Cornwall has been the latest to subscribe to the Jamaica rugby league.

Jamaica will take on the Tomahawks at 1:00 pm Jamaica time today.