Canada Life International has expanded its sponsorship of grassroots football in the Isle of Man by committing to a new three-year deal, which includes the women’s game.

The financial solutions provider, which employs more than 200 people at its Business Park headquarters, has been a major sponsor of the men’s game since 2007.

The new agreement will be in place until the end of the 2024 season and includes the men’s and women’s Premier Leagues, women’s FA Cup and Floodlit Cup, plus the women’s island team and men’s Player of the Month awards.

Canada Life’s head of talent and organisation development, Vicki Hotchkiss, commented: ’We’re delighted to have expanded the long-standing sponsorship agreement we have enjoyed with the Isle of Man Football Association over the years, which is centred on our company commitment to bring diversity and inclusion into all that we do.

’This view is shared with the IoMFA, which was keen to find a sponsor for the women’s game with the expertise and desire to support their ambition to provide equality of opportunity for all.’

President of the Isle of Man FA, Tony Mepham, added: ’We’re delighted that Canada Life International has further committed to Manx football, 14 years after signing its first agreement with us.

’One of our main goals over the coming years is to develop women’s and girl’s football and having a primary sponsor - one which shares our commitment to providing equal opportunities for all - is a huge benefit.’

cowin to step down

as women’s manager

Isle of Man women’s representative football team manager, Brian Cowin, has stepped down from his role.

’When I took on the job, my main objective was for players to put aside club loyalties and form a united squad, which I think we achieved.

’I feel like this is the right time to step down and for a new manager to start preparing a squad for 2023.’

Chair of the IoMFA’s island representative committee, Shaun Gritton, said: ’I thank Brian for his passion, hard work and dedication over the years and wish him the best of success for the future.’