NEWPORT, Manchester — Sporting activities have been boosted at the Bethabara Primary School following the opening of an $8.2-million multipurpose court built by the Digicel Foundation.

The school, located south-west of Mandeville, with a population of approximately 500 students, has over the years excelled in netball competitions despite its previous court, which was in a deplorable condition with dirt, stones and uneven patches of asphalt.

National netballer Crystal Plummer, 21, a past student of Bethabara Primary, was among the sporting, political, educational, and religious leaders who, on Tuesday, lauded Digicel Foundation, for constructing the well-needed court.

Plummer told the audience at the handing-over ceremony about her netball journey, which started at Bethabara Primary, as an inspiration to student netballers.

“I didn’t know I would reach or to see beautiful countries such as South Africa or New Zealand, but because I was determined and I knew what I wanted, I got the chance to travel the world, represent my country and most of all, represent myself,” said Plummer, who has represented Jamaica seven times between 2022 and 2023.

Senior operations manager at the Digicel Foundation Jodi-Ann McFarlane said the $8.2-million project includes the installation of nets and hoops, perimeter fencing, a retaining wall, seating for the court and marking of the court boundaries.

“It is expected that the facilities will be heavily utilised by the school, youth groups and other groups from the community. This space stands as a testament to Digicel Foundation’s unwavering commitment to fostering both educational excellence and vibrant community life. To date, we have spent a total of US$2.1 million in Manchester through 51 projects,” said McFarlane.

Member of Parliament for Manchester Central Rhoda Crawford commended the Digicel Foundation for its role in improving life in Jamaica.

“I see the work that Digicel has been doing and they have been making a marvelous contribution to nation building. Government can’t do it alone, so when we have the private sector that is as committed as Digicel, we have to support them,” she said.

Councillor for the Knockpatrick Division Karl Smith shared similar sentiments.

“I am happy for Bethabara and they are going to continue to do good and make us proud,” he said.

School Principal Cecil Hamilton lauded the Digicel Foundation for its donation to the institution.

“We have been performing exceptionally well in netball for more than a decade with little or no resources. Former Coach Howard Daley laid the foundation for the success of our netball team. In 2023, we finished second in the all-island netball competition. Previously, we were champions from 2018, 2019, 2020. We are motivated to take back the crown as champions. Presently we are in the finals of the INSPORTS all-island netball competition,” said Hamilton.

“We have been given an excellent and world-class surface for all our students to develop and produce as national players,” Hamilton added.