KINGSTON, Jamaica — Red Stripe Flavours has officially launched the 2026 staging of the Netball Jamaica Elite League, reaffirming its commitment to women’s sports, youth development and the growth of Jamaica’s sporting landscape.

The launch was held on Friday at the National Arena, bringing together organisers, players, sponsors and other stakeholders ahead of what is expected to be another competitive season of the country’s premier domestic netball competition.

Organised by Netball Jamaica and sponsored by Red Stripe Flavours since 2024, the league has established itself as one of the nation’s leading development platforms for elite female netball talent while continuing to increase the visibility of women’s sports.

The 2026 season is scheduled to begin on June 5, with matches set to be played every Friday and Sunday throughout the competition.

Five teams will compete this season, including defending champions Kingston Hummingbirds, Manchester Spurs, St Catherine Racers, St Ann Orchids and the Development Squad/JACE Risers.

President of Netball Jamaica Karen Baugh welcomed the continued partnership between the governing body and Red Stripe Flavours, noting the importance of sustained investment in the sport.

“This year promises to be bigger and more competitive. Continued sponsorship investments signal confidence not only in netball, but also in sporting communities and the development of young people,” Baugh said.

Red Stripe Flavours Brand Manager Arnaldo Martin said the company remains committed to supporting and celebrating the women who continue to drive the sport forward.

“Netball has always been part of Jamaica’s sporting excellence, and the passion, discipline and commitment these athletes bring every season deserve real investment,” Martin said.

“One of the reasons Red Stripe Flavours chose to support the Netball Elite League is because the sport already possesses tremendous talent and a loyal fan base. What it deserves is continued visibility, stronger partnerships and brands that genuinely believe in its future.”

Martin added that the company’s involvement extends beyond sponsorship, with a focus on highlighting the personalities and influence of the athletes both on and off the court.

“We believe Jamaican women in sports deserve platforms that celebrate not only their performance on the court, but also their impact beyond the game,” he said.

The Red Stripe Flavours Netball Jamaica Elite League continues to serve as a critical pathway for Jamaica’s national netball programme while providing emerging players with opportunities to compete at a high-performance level.

The competition, which evolved from the former Berger Elite League into its current Red Stripe Flavours-branded format, has steadily expanded its role in athlete development and sports entertainment while fostering community engagement and youth participation.

Last season featured 14 matches and 56 of the country’s top players. Kingston Hummingbirds were crowned champions after edging Manchester Spurs 52-50 in a thrilling final.

Through its continued partnership with Netball Jamaica, Red Stripe Flavours said it hopes the 2026 season will further elevate the profile of women’s sports while strengthening community engagement and national pride through netball.