The men’s volleyball teams that will represent the Isle of Man in the NatWest Island Games in Jersey later this month have secured sponsorship.
First Names Group, a leading trust, funds and corporate services provider, has committed £3,000 to help support both the beach and indoor men’s volleyball sides which will compete in Jersey at the end of this month.
The sponsorship money pledged by First Names Group will cover the cost of playing kits for both teams and contribute towards travel and accommodation expenses for the squad’s stay during the Games.
The event runs from June 27 until July 4 and will see the largest Isle of Man volleyball squad to date, with members totalling 21 (20 competitors and one team official).
For most of the squad this will be their first experience of competing at an Island Games, as the last time a Manx men’s indoor volleyball team competed was in 2001, when the Games were hosted locally.
Daniel Smith, team coach and men’s beach volleyball captain, said: ‘This is the largest and strongest volleyball squad representing the Isle of Man in Island Games history.
‘We have been working towards this for three years now and plan to make an impact, so we’re very thankful to First Names Group for their support.’
Nigel Kane, men’s indoor volleyball captain, added: ‘On behalf of the men’s indoor volleyball squad I would like to say how delighted we are that First Names Group have agreed to be our kit sponsor.
‘The squad travelling to Jersey for this year’s Natwest Island Games has a great team spirit and it is a great honour to captain such a dedicated team. Big thanks once again; we will wear our kit with pride.’
Speaking of their sponsorship contribution, Gary Hepburn, managing director of First Names Group in Isle of Man, commented:
‘We are so pleased to have been able to show our support for the Isle of Man in the Island Games.
‘We wish the very best of luck to the men’s volleyball teams and all the other teams and individuals representing the island at this year’s Games.’