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From left: David McConnell, managing director of Select Brands; Tania McConnell, corporate marketing manager at Select Brands; Kemar Foster, captain of Waterhouse FC; Bruce Bicknell, chairman of Waterhouse FC; and Donovan White, president of Waterhouse FC, display a symbolic $45 million cheque at a sponsorship announcement at Drewsland Mini-Stadium on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. Select Brands unveiled a five-year, $45 million sponsorship deal with Waterhouse FC. (PHOTO: Contributed).
Select Brands Limited, a leading distributor of wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages, has announced a five-year sponsorship deal with Waterhouse FC worth $45 million.
The partnership was unveiled during a press conference at the Drewsland Mini-Stadium, Waterhouse FC’s home ground, on Wednesday.
Under the agreement, Select Brands will provide financial and material support to the club, focusing on enhancing fan experience, upgrading infrastructure, and fostering deeper community ties. Initiatives include stadium improvements, funding for local events, and youth development programmes aimed at creating opportunities for community growth.
David McConnell, co-managing director of Select Brands, described the sponsorship as a logical step for the company. “Why Waterhouse? It is your legacy of winning, your strong leadership, your great team, and unity,” said McConnell. “Many of your values are values that our company maintains: unity, strength, respect, and discipline.”
McConnell highlighted Select Brands’ connection to the Waterhouse community, where many of the company’s employees reside, emphasising the importance of investing in football as both an outlet and a professional pathway for local residents.
Waterhouse FC president Donovan White described the sponsorship as a pivotal moment in the club’s storied history. He highlighted the club’s achievements in the Jamaica Premier League, consistent playoff appearances, and participation in the Concacaf Club Championships from 2017 to 2022. White also praised the club’s track record of nurturing young talent, such as Romain Blake, who has gone on to play internationally.
“We're not a small club. We may look small. We may even feel small. But Waterhouse is a big club and a well-respected club in every respect and in many places,” White said. “Most importantly, I want to ask our fans and supporters to use this moment, a very seminal moment in our history, to reengage. Let's go again. It's time to refresh. It's time to find new energy. It's time to raise Waterhouse Football Club to a whole new level. And that's what we're about.”
Club captain Kemar Foster expressed gratitude for the sponsorship. “We are honoured to have you with us this season and beyond,” Foster said. “We are dedicated to ensuring that this partnership is mutually beneficial for both of us. Your sponsorship is more than just financial support. It provides our team with the added resources necessary to elevate the team's performance, improve our facilities, and boost morale.”
