JFF clears the air
Published:Friday | August 4, 2023 | 12:07 AM
The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has hailed the Reggae Girlz after they became the first Caribbean team to qualify for the second round of a senior FIFA World Cup tournament.
In a release yesterday, the JFF said it noted that the public information re: funding sources has taken away the focus from the celebration around this historic achievement, and would like to clarify this with the hope that, as supporters, we can focus on the achievements.
Several reports, especially in the foreign media, have said the Jamaican squad wasn’t sure they would make it to the World Cup and had to lean on a pair of last-minute fundraisers, including one GoFundMe launched by a player’s mother, to help pay for their trip to Australia and New Zealand, the two countries hosting this year’s tournament.
The JFF, however, said that while they appreciate all the help they can get for the various programmes, the fact is, the vast of majority of the required funding is being provided from the following sources: FIFA, Concacaf, the Government of Jamaica, Adidas, the Bob Marley Foundation, corporate Jamaica sponsors, and the Reggae Girlz Foundation.
In its release, the JFF thanked the sponsors.
“Without their assistance, the Girlz and the other national teams, would not be able to prepare or participate in any competition, including the World Cup.”The release added: “We also want to recognise the technical staff and secretariat staff, who all continue to work tirelessly in providing the technical assistance, organisation, and working with sponsors to raise the necessary funds to sustain our national programmes.
“We, of course, welcome anyone who wants to contribute to the development of our national football teams, which have done well and made Jamaica proud.
“We look forward to working with these organisations and sponsors in continuing to fulfil the dreams of many youngsters who have realised their dreams through football, and thank our supporters.”
In an interview on Hitz FM on Wednesday, JFF president Michael Ricketts said that, contrary to popular belief, there was no help from any crowdfunding efforts.
Women’s World Cup last 16 schedule
August 5
12 a.m: Switzerland vs Spain
3 a.m: Japan vs Norway
9 p.m: Netherlands vs South Africa
August 6
4 a.m: Sweden vs United States
August 7
2:30 a.m: England vs Nigeria
5:30 a.m: Australia vs Denmark
August 8
3 a.m: Colombia vs Jamaica
6 a.m: France vs Morocco