President of Netball Jamaica (NJ) Tricia Robinson, says her organisation is in urgent need of $14 million to fund the Under-21 team’s participation in this year’s World Championships in Guadeloupe, scheduled for July.

The Jamaican team, entering the qualifiers for the first time, faces this necessity following the disappointing fifth-place finish at the 2017 championships held in Botswana.

“We require approximately $14 million to cover the expenses for the qualifiers in Guadeloupe in July, and the team commences camp next Tuesday,” Robinson said.

“This is part of our grassroots programme, and we urge corporate Jamaica to join us in supporting the youth, as they are the future Sunshine Girls,” she added.

“These players represent the future of our sport, and it’s imperative that we secure their participation in the qualifiers in Guadeloupe this July,” Robinson emphasised.

The junior Sunshine Girls team, led by Coach Phyliss Thompson and assisted by Nicole Aiken-Pinnock, carries Robinson’s confidence.

“I am confident in our ability to emerge victorious at the Guadeloupe qualifiers. We have a strong team under the guidance of two highly experienced coaches who I believe will lead us to success,” she said.

Robinson outlined that the allocated funds would cover airfare, accommodation, and meals for the team.

“We want to appeal to the public for support because securing these qualifiers is paramount for us. Historically, we have performed well in the World Under-21 Championships,” she explained.

Jamaica secured a silver medal at the 2000 tournament held in Cardiff, Wales, and a bronze at the 2013 championships in Glasgow, Scotland.