Leighton Levy, Star Writer

Some emerging netballers are set to be beneficiaries of a fund set up by some of Jamaica's seasoned professionals, members of the University of the West Indies Accounting/Economic Business Administration Class of 1969.

The graduating class boasts some of Jamaica's brightest leaders in the financial sector, including Dwight Venner, governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, former deputy governor of the Bank of Jamaica Audrey Anderson, and one Marva Green, who eventually became Marva Bernard, president of the Jamaica Netball Association. It was through this association that this much-needed fund became possible.

"Every three years or so we get together and Marva would mention the challenges they face in terms of food and tuition," said Selvin Gordon, a member of the class and a former banker and recently retired senior manager at the University of the West Indies.

"So as a class of established professionals we established a fund for up-and-coming netballers, designed to help young netballers who show promise."

Gordon said the fund would be administered by the University of the West Indies and they would ask the Jamaica Netball Association to recommend two or three players who demonstrate the requisite qualities, those who demonstrate development academically and athletically.

The fund is starting out with $150,000, which Gordon acknowledged is not adequate but is a start. "It is not enough but you give what you have," he said, explaining that there are occasions when tertiary students are unable to sit an exam because they are unable to find $30,000. He said the fund could grow but a lot depends on how the recipients respond.

On receiving word of the fund, Bernard was overwhelmed with gratitude.

"This is so greatly appreciated," she said.

"When your batchmates see the work that you are doing and see the need and have come forward to help." She said her batchmates have always wanted to give back and this is something that is close to their hearts.

The Class of '69 will present the first cheque to the JNA president today when the first matches will be played in this year's JNA/Berger Super League.