Sportsmanship Between Digicel & the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association
In a perfect display of teamwork, Digicel makes a three-year J$84M investment in the ISSA’s upcoming schoolboy football seasons.
Ahead of the 2022/2023 Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) schoolboy football season, Digicel announced it would invest J$84 million over the next three years in the Manning Cup and Walker Cup knockout competitions. While the telecommunications company is a well- established ISSA partner, this backing exceeded previous sponsorship contributions for Digicel.
Digicel has already contributed to the 2022/2023 seasons in a variety of ways. In the final rounds of last year’s Manning Cup quarter-finals, Digicel recognised the most valuable players (MVPs), awarding them with trophies and gifts such as smartphones. And when the St George’s College Manning Cup football team had their mobile devices stolen, Digicel outfitted them with new ones.
In the remainder of the upcoming seasons, Digicel plans to use state-of-the-art technology such as its modern fibre and LTE networks to deliver convenience to all spectators. And since this is the Caribbean’s most expansive inter-school football competition, it's safe to say there will continue to be plenty of eager followers.
How Digicel Provided Relief During COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges and hurdles to the entire sports industry, including ISSA. During this time, patrons such as Digicel came to the rescue. ISSA President, Keith Wellington, spoke particularly highly of these donors, saying, “... the entire nation has had to deal with the ravages of the pandemic. During this period, ISSA was blessed to have the support of several key stakeholders who ensured that we could stay focused on providing opportunities for our student-athletes. Last year, even without a formal agreement, our sponsors decided to stay on board and bridge the gap between their last contract and the current one. Therefore, I acknowledge our sponsors for their tremendous support with a sense of gratitude.” Digicel also facilitated mentorship opportunities with star player and Brand Ambassador, Reggae Boy Damion Lowe.
Not only did ISSA’s patrons help athletes during this challenging time, but they prioritised the general welfare of the public. For example, when attendance was closed at certain rounds, Digicel and SportsMax provided footage through the SportsMax app, SportsMax channels on Digicel+ and on CEEN TV. Additionally, Digicel gave consumers an opportunity to win J$500,000 in the Rep Your School competition and prizes on social media platforms like TikTok.
Digicel’s Relationship with ISSA Before COVID-19
Prior to an international shutdown, Digicel had been a title sponsor for ISSA schoolboy football competitions. In 2018, Digicel sponsored the competition for its second time with a contribution of J$75 million. Even prior to that in 2016, the Digicel Foundation contributed funds for the rehabilitation of Tivoli Gardens High school, which included new watering systems and grass.
For Digicel and the Digicel Foundation, these initiatives all speak to its broader focus on charity, societal development and youth outreach. The Digicel Foundation firmly believes that with technology and life-changing experiences, the region can foster a culture of inspiration.