Jamaica Premier League (JPL) outfit Waterhouse FC received a significant boost in its charge towards maintaining a rich legacy of success and youth development as they inked a five-year, $45 million sponsorship deal with Select Brands Limited, Jamaica’s leading distributor of wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages.

According to David McConnell, co-managing director of Select Brands, the partnership not only solidifies its commitment to community development but, more importantly, highlights the company's dedication to fostering growth and unity through sports.

The sponsorship will provide financial and material support to the club, with a focus on enhancing fan experiences, improving infrastructure, and strengthening community ties over the next five years.

Additionally, the collaboration will see stadium upgrades and funding for events aimed at youth development, creating pathways for young talent, and enriching the community’s engagement with football.

"Why Waterhouse? It is your legacy of winning, your strong leadership, your great team, and unity,” McConnell said during a press conference at the Waterhouse Mini Stadium on Wednesday.

“Many of your values are [values] that our company maintains; unity, strength, respect, and discipline,” he added.

With the company situated near the Waterhouse community and employing several residents, McConnell emphasized the significance of investing in football as a positive outlet and a professional avenue for local talent. He also noted that this partnership aligns with Select Brands’ growth strategy and its mission to expand its impact on the community.

Waterhouse Football Club President Donovan White celebrated the partnership as a key milestone in the club’s illustrious journey.

This, as he highlighted the club’s 37-year history in the Jamaica Premier League, its achievements in Concacaf tournaments, and its role in nurturing young talent.

“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. I want to ask our fans and our supporters to use this moment, a very seminal moment in our history, to re-engage.

“Let’s go again. It’s time to refresh. It’s time to find new energies. It’s time to raise Waterhouse Football Club to a whole new level, and that’s what we’re about,” White declared.

Meanwhile, Waterhouse’s Kemar Foster echoed the same sentiment while expressing gratitude for the sponsorship and its potential to elevate the team.

“We are honoured to have you with us this season and beyond. 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 added resources necessary to elevate the team performance, improve our facility, and boost morale,” Foster stated.