Jamaican Rugby League has been handed a massive vote of confidence with the announcement that one of the world’s best-known brands has come on board to support it.

Virgin Atlantic Airways have agreed to support the JRLA as it seeks to integrate players from the island with those who are based overseas but eligible to represent the national side.

National team Head Coach Dean Thomas commented, “Our performance in the next World Cup qualifiers is totally dependant on players coming together and, for that, Virgin Atlantic’s support is invaluable”

Jamaican Rugby League Development Officer Romeo Monteith added, "Virgin's partnership with Jamaica RL marks yet another turning point in the history of the sport here.”

“It is another positive step that takes us closer to the 2013 World Cup and ensures the further development and continued growth of our sport in Jamaica".

Jamaica has been invited to this year’s prestigious Carnegie 9’s to be held in Leeds in August at Headingley Carnegie Stadium and will field a team which Thomas will coach.

“Jamaica and the West Indies are renowned for having some of the best athletes on the planet” he said. “My hope is that our invitation is a springboard for a West Indies 9’s Tournament team here very soon”.

Virgin Atlantic’s Sales & Marketing Manager for the Caribbean, Rachel Pilgrim feels that the link-up with the JRL is a perfect fit.

“Our routes to the island have been doing extremely well and we see this sponsorship as a means of connecting with Jamaicans by sharing in something that is important to them” she commented.

“Jamaica’s track record in sports is phenomenal and we are really pleased to be able to help take Rugby League there to the next level.”

On June 22nd this year Virgin Atlantic will be celebrating 25 years of operation and forthcoming Rugby League events in Jamaica will be part of the airline’s Silver Anniversary “Still Red Hot” celebrations.

The UK-based West Indies players will meet at the Grattan Stadium, Odsal on Sunday 21st June for an introduction to the JRL organisation.