SPONSORSHIP of any event helps make it a success and yesterday money transfer giant Grace Kennedy Remittance Services (Guyana ) Limited (GKRS) proved just that, by sponsoring two out-of-town teams who will be competing in the inaugural National Community Basketball League (NCBL) which bounces off today. Plaisance/Vryheid’s Lust and Central Mackenzie received uniforms and an undisclosed sum from the sponsors to aid in their participation in the tournament, where there is $500,000 at stake for the winner. There is also a motorcycle for the most valuable player (MVP).
Prior to making the presentation, GKRS Marketing Assistant, Nadine Luthers, said her Company was pleased to partner with the NCBL in hosting their countrywide tournament, which will also help to add meaning to the lives of our young men who have shown their dedication to the game over the years.
“This year, GKRS opted to partner with the league and sponsor the two teams mentioned above under their Western Union brand. We are optimistic that both teams will give us a good game and will rally through to the final and we urge the players to stay focus and remember to be a good example to the youngsters within their respective communities,” said Luthers.
She expressed her happiness that the tournament is a local one which is coinciding with the NBA Playoffs in the United States of America, adding “Our local players can get some tips on strategic moves on the court, while they emulate some of the better players in the international arena.”
‘Whether you are a Lakers, Heat or Thunder fan, or even one that did not make it thus far in the NBA tournament, I am sure you will all agree that the teams have all exhibited true team spirit and competence in the tournament.
Be disciplined as this is the first step to being successful and through our contribution, you will be fully equipped and looking ready to compete. It’s now up to you to go onto the court and give it your best shot in this tournament,” charged Luthers.
Kwame Mentore, who along with former national player Robert ‘Bobby’ Cadogan is coordinating the tournament, said he was truly grateful to the sponsors for coming on board and sponsoring the two teams.
“They have not just sponsored one team, but set the tone by sponsoring two teams, making them the first corporate entity to come forward and do so.
“What we admire about this gesture also is the fact that they have reached out of town to do so, showing their love for the Lindeners and beyond Georgetown, by taking charge of a team from East Coast,” stated Mentore.
Mentore said they were struggling to find sponsors for the teams, while informing GKRS that the organisation of the tournament was done with the objective of doing justice to all the sponsors.
“We will make sure your brand is properly advertised and you get due mileage and when we meet the players, we will let them know that they have to represent the brands with diligence and in the true spirit of the game and I wish to say special thanks to you,” said Mentore.
Highlighting that this is the first tournament of its kind in Guyana, Mentore said they will be coming with different things, while adding spice to the sport which they intend to revive in a different way. He thanked GKRS from the depths of his heart, for their timely and worthy contribution.
The tournament was a project of Link up Media – Guyenterprise and Bobby’s Afterschool Programme and it was supported by the MCY&S and endorsed by the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation.
Meanwhile, the opening games today will feature Wismar against New Amsterdam at 18:00hrs and Central Mackenzie against Alpha/Bourda at 20:00hrs at the Burnham Court and apart from the first prize, the runners-up will pocket $250 000 and third-placers $150 000 while trophies and medals will be up for grabs.