FOLLOWING the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Sports Minister Olivia Grange says the Government intends to introduce a national insurance plan for coaches across the island.

Back in 2016 the Government introduced the Jamaican Athletes’ Insurance Plan which provides sustainable health and life insurance, pension and retirement coverage, for all eligible national athletes. Since then, over 2000 athletes have benefited from the multimillion-dollar plan.

However, coaches have had to seek their own coverage through their employer or association.

Grange, though, says that will change in the coming months, after witnessing the effects the Category 5 hurricane — which lashed Jamaica on October 28 — had on several sporting programmes.

“Our many coaches in the western end of the island suffered significant losses. Damage to facilities, equipment, and in some cases, personal homes has underscored a clear truth [that] those who safeguard the well-being of our athletes must also be safeguarded. The need for a dedicated insurance mechanism for coaches is now undeniable,” she said.

“Preliminary discussions have started. We have the athletes’ insurance plan, and I would like to extend that insurance plan to cover the coaches. My intention is clear — to put in place a structure that protects the very individuals who have held to uphold Jamaica’s sporting excellence for decades.”

The sports minister, who was speaking at the Jamaica Track and Field Coaches Association Long Service Awards last Saturday, says coaches are a critical part of the country’s success in athletics.

“Sometimes you’re not just coach — you’re mother, you’re father, you’re godfather, you’re everything to the athlete. I know that when your athlete achieves greatness, you are extremely proud. Thank you for the great work you continue to do at the foundational level. Your leadership and commitment remain invaluable,” Grange said.

“On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank you for your discipline, your perseverance, and your extraordinary commitment. I thank you for building champions, not only on the track but in life. May your work continue to uplift communities, ignite ambition, and shape the future of Jamaica’s athletics,” she added.

Several track and field clubs, as well as high schools, have resumed training since the passage of the hurricane.