Netball Jamaica (NJ) President Karen Baugh says the Red Stripe Flavours Elite League plays a vital role in providing the country’s top players the chance to compete at an elite level while preparing the next generation of Sunshine Girls.

The 2026 season of the NJ/Red Stripe Flavour Elite League was launched at the National Arena on Friday and will see five teams contesting for the championships – Kingston Hummingbirds (defending champions), Manchester Spurs, St Ann Orchids, St Catherine Racers, and Jace Risers (National Development Squad).

The opening round of matches will be played this Friday at the National Indoor Sports Centre, with the Grand Final scheduled for Friday, July 3 at the same venue.

“The Elite League remains a vital component of our high-performance pathway, providing Jamaica’s top players with the opportunity to compete at an elite level while preparing the next generation of Sunshine Girls,” Baugh said.

“We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and partners whose support continues to fuel the growth of netball in Jamaica and create meaningful opportunities for our athletes,” added Baugh.

Along with Red Stripe Flavours as title sponsor, PowerAde is on board as gold sponsor. Associate and team sponsors include Marathon Insurance Brokers, Xpress Sports, Nature Valley, West Kingston, Power Partners, and Jace.

BAUGH… we are deeply grateful to our sponsors and partners whose support continues to fuel the growth of netball in Jamaica

Red Stripe Flavours Brand Manager Arnaldo Martin encouraged fans to experience the competition, describing the league as a showcase of top-class netball delivered in a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

PowerAde Brand Coordinator Savannah Blake highlighted the return of the popular PowerAde Power Play, a designated period during each match in which successful shots are worth two points. She urged athletes and spectators to embrace the energy and innovation the league brings to the sport.

NJ also acknowledged the valued support of Sunshine Girls sponsors Best Dressed Chicken, Gilbert, Jamaica Public Service, and Budget, whose investment has helped Jamaica maintain its position among the world’s leading netball nations.

Beyond the on-court action, the Elite League serves as a key development platform for coaches, officials, and athletes. Coaches in the competition are products of NJ’s Coaching Pathways Programme, making the league an incubator for future national team personnel.

This year’s competition takes on added significance with national selectors and coaches preparing for two major international assignments — the 2026 Commonwealth Games in July/August and the 2026 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in August. The league will provide a valuable opportunity to assess and fine-tune athletes for both events.