Neita-Headley to launch Divisional leagues

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Sports Minister Natalie Neita-Headley is to participate in the launch of the Jamaica Netball Association/Supreme Ventures-sponsored Divisional Club Leagues today at 2:00 pm at the National Arena.

The recently appointed minister, along with JNA executives will also take the opportunity to conduct an examination of the state of the playing surface at the Leila Robinson Courts at the National Stadium Complex.

Although the launch and opening game of the season will take place inside the National Arena, the Rally today and subsequent weekly games in the Divisional Leagues, will take place outdoors at the Leila Robinson Courts.

Recently, information surfaced that planned renovation of the Leila Robinson Courts in line with Jamaica 50 celebrations had been put on hold, while the newly appointed minister reviewed all associated costs. This court inspection will form part of the review of this activity.

The Leila Robinson Courts were built in 1971 and apart from some resurfacing and minor renovations to the stands over the years; the facility has been challenged to accommodate the playing demands of schools, clubs and Business House leagues, administered by the JNA.

The 'A' and 'C' leagues of the Supreme Ventures Divisional Leagues will feature action from over 40 teams vying for increased cash and prizes. At stake also are scholarships for winning coaches to newly developed UTech Training courses.

The 2011 champions of the 'A' League is Tivoli 'B', who have been promoted to the Super League, and last year's winner of the 'C' League, Boulevard Baptist, have also been promoted to the 'B' League. The competitions will span over two months with finals scheduled for May 12 . This is the 10th consecutive year of sponsorship for Supreme Ventures.