Marley Foundation gives Reggae Girlz $22.5-m boost
The Reggae Girlz have concluded their first week in one of two back-to-back pre-tournament camps funded by their lead sponsor the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation (BMF) as part of Cedella Marley’s ‘Football is Freedom’ initiative. The squad’s 26 players and technical personnel received a sponsorship package valued at approximately $22.5 million, covering all costs to ensure peak performance in their games ahead of a similar camp in Mexico next month.
They were welcomed to a base in Colorado, United States, on Thursday, June 16 to prepare for the Concacaf Women’s Championship and will spend an additional week there undergoing rigorous technical, physical, and mental training at high altitude under the supervision of interim Head Coach Lorne Donaldson.
Football is Freedom is committed to promoting the development of the women’s sport across the region as the global ambassador for the Jamaica women’s football programme. Established in 2021, the initiative was Marley’s mission to expand her advocacy and commitment to the game after seven years of unwavering support.
“We are beyond grateful to continue working with the Reggae Girlz who always prove themselves to be amazing athletes. The pre-tournament is going very well and Football is Freedom alongside the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) is here with them every step of the way. I couldn’t be prouder,” Marley said.
The delegation is utilising Real Colorado SC fields and facilities for the first pre-tournament camp before travelling to Mexico on June 28th for a second pre-tournament round. They will complete their acclimation and training for the high-stake competition during this forthcoming three-day mini camp.
They are scheduled to arrive at the Concacaf host facility on July 2, with the championship games beginning two days later on July 4. The tournament is scheduled to end July 18.