Nedbank Private Wealth have been named as the new sponsor of both women’s and girls’ football in the island for the next three years.

The announcement was made at a launch event held at the company’s offices in Douglas last Thursday and Isle of Man Football Association chief executive Frank Stennett has spoken of his delight at the deal: ’We are delighted that Nedbank Private Wealth has agreed to a three-year sponsorship for women’s and girls football in the Isle of Man.

’This is a very important part of our overall development work. We have been given stretching initiatives from the English FA to double participation in this area over the next phase of our agreed plans and objectives.

’This extends to not only players taking part in the game, but also female referees and volunteers in local grassroots football.

’To formulate a new partnership with such a high-calibre and well-respected organisation as Nedbank Private Wealth greatly assists our development plans in the island moving forward.

’On behalf of the Isle of Man Football Association, I would like to thank the team at Nedbank Private Wealth for their kind support, and look forward to working with Greg Horton and all the professional team representatives at the bank over the next three years.’

Horton, managing director and executive head of Nedbank Private Wealth International, commented: ’We are delighted to be supporting the development of women and girls football in the Isle of Man, especially at such an exciting time for the sport.

’The IoMFA is doing a fantastic job of inspiring girls, parents and teachers to get involved in the game and giving women of all ages more opportunities to play and develop their footballing skills.’