AutoSmart, a leading car insurance company underwritten by General Accident (GenAc), will sponsor the Treasure Beach Football Club (TBFC) for its first season in the Jamaica Premiere League (JPL), the highest level of professional club football in Jamaica.

The sponsorship agreement and cheque handover took place at a small ceremony at the AutoSmart offices in Kingston on Tuesday, October 10. 

GenAc Chief Operating Officer Gregory Foster was pleased to make the presentation noting that, “We see where our partnership can be mutually beneficial and support a bigger dream.  We look forward to a good season for the team.” 

In fact, the Club will make their first showing in the JPL having emerged as winners of Tier II to advance to the top tier of Jamaican professional club football for this season.   It is the first time in 43 years that a team from St Elizabeth has ventured into the top tier.  The TBFC is also unique in that it is the only club in the league that is owned and operated by a non-profit organization, BREDS - Treasure Beach Foundation. 

In his presentation, BREDS Chairman Jason Henzell outlined the long, yet rewarding, path to the achievement.  “Ours is a story of community development in Treasure Beach merging with the sporting excellence of STETS,” he explained.  Henzell, a community activist in his own right, lauded the input to many individuals that contribute to the “strong structure” of the Club.  He called out BREDS President Paul Bernard for his belief and faith that drives the Club.  

Bernard was quick to note that the success of the Club to date is a “collaborative effort” having “synchronized all our skills.”   He attributed the Club’s success to a commitment to structure and discipline.  In reference to the AutoSmart collaboration he noted that, “we are very happy to have the AutoSmart brand on board.  Alone we cannot make it.  Together we can.  And we will wear your brand with pride,” he said to roaring applause.  

Moved by the presentations, Foster revealed that, “at AutoSmart, we can relate to the story of being the underdog and we know that if you continue to remain disciplined, ensure that remarkable team spirit that propelled you to the Jamaica Premiere League, and maintain the camaraderie, we think that the Treasure Beach Football Club will make an admirable showing.” 

The $3 million sponsorship earns AutoSmart pride of place on the team jersey sleeve.   Additionally, in collaboration with the Treasure Beach Football Club and wider community, AutoSmart will offer special discounts to community club supporters.  

The JPL kicks off on October 22, 2023.