As the 2019 Netball World Cup approaches, Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls are gearing up for what could be their first championship win in the history of the competition.

The national senior netball team is currently ranked third in the world and regarded as one of the most talented teams by netball pundits. With a strong determination to compete at the highest level, the team is close to reaching its goal of $30 million needed to fund training and travel expenses for the World Cup.

“The opportunity to compete in the World Cup means a lot to the girls. They have been working hard over the last four years, preparing for this moment,” said Simone Forbes, coach and veteran netballer.

“The last World Cup, we came forth and we have really pushed them to the point where they have been either second or first for the last three years, so they have been doing really well. They are ready and Jamaica is looking forward to what they will achieve when they go to the competition and we all support them.”

That support has come from many quarters, including corporate entities like Red Stripe, which has a reputation for investing in local sports. The beer company recently contributed $1 million to the Sunshine Girls’ journey to the World Cup.

Red Stripe’s assistant brand manager, Reshima Kelly, presented the symbolic cheque to president of Netball Jamaica Dr Paula Daley-Morris on Wednesday during a team training session.

“When we heard that the Girls needed help, we decided that we had to bring something to the table,” said Kelly. “The needs are many among sports teams, and as a company we have always done what we can to stand up for Jamaican sports, players and organisations that do us all proud.”

Daley-Morris was grateful for Red Stripe’s timely intervention.

“We thank the Red Stripe team for this generous donation. I am truly elated, as it is difficult leading such an important organisation and being short of funds. Receiving $1 million out of the $5 million that we are short will allow me to sleep a little better at night,” said the Netball Jamaica boss.

The Sunshine Girls have their sights set on bringing glory to Jamaica at the Netball World Cup, scheduled to take place from July 12-21 in Liverpool, England. As Netball Jamaica inches closer to its $30 million mark, the team is concentrating on preparation as well as their strategy to take home the coveted prize.