National provides a million reasons to smile to Waterhouse FC
National Premier League leaders Waterhouse Football Club received a much-needed financial boost with a symbolic cheque for $1,000,000, to signal its partnership with one of Jamaica’s oldest and most respected brands – National Baking Company.
The partnership, which was the brainchild of Bruce Bicknell, chairman, Waterhouse FC, and Gary “Butch” Hendrickson, CEO, National Baking Company, is built on mutual respect and trust, and a willingness to provide hope and opportunity for young men through sports.
The commitment to Waterhouse FC by National bakery is a multi-year agreement where the club benefits from financial support plus ongoing product support for the football programme.
Commenting on the partnership, club Chairman Bruce Bicknell remarked, “We are very humbled that a big and respected brand like ‘National’ has seen the vision we have for Waterhouse Football Club, and has committed its name and money to support our ambitions to be the best football club in Jamaica. I want to publicly say thank you to them for this partnership.”
Speaking on behalf of National, Brand Manager Omega Harris said, “Community development has always been a major focus for us as a company, and even more so involvement that prioritises our youth. Our support of the Waterhouse Football Club and, by extension, the community of Waterhouse, has been one of our longest and most rewarding partnerships.
“Observing the impact of the club on the lives of these young men is truly remarkable; without a doubt, this is a commitment that is worth preserving.”
The presentation of the cheque was made at half-time, during the Red Stripe Premier League (RSPL) fixture with Portmore United at their stadium in Drewsland, Waterhouse, on Sunday.
Waterhouse won the game 4-1 on the back of a brace from new signing Colorado Murray, who has flourished at the club. Young defender Denilson Simpson scored his first senior goal for the club before being replaced late on, after suffering a head injury. The fourth goal for Waterhouse was scored by Stephen Williams, while the consolation goal for Portmore was scored by Tevin Shaw.
The win was somewhat of a revenge for Waterhouse who have struggled to score wins over Portmore in recent times, losing consecutive championship games to the defending RSPL champions.
