Theodore 'Tappa' Whitmore accepts the key to his BMW X3 from Richard Stewart, chairman of Stewart Motors, and Duncan Stewart, general manager. - Photo by Keisha Hill

Theodore Whitmore, who will officially take up a one-year contract as head coach of Jamaica's Reggae Boyz, will find travelling much easier as he was presented with the keys to a BMW X3 SUV yesterday at the offices of national team sponsor, Stewart Motors.

The BMW X3, a compact luxury SUV that offers a high seating position, all-wheel-drive traction, exemplary performance and solid build quality, is the same vehicle that was driven by previous Jamaica Football Federation technical director, René Simoes, and former head coach, John Barnes.

Sponsorship arrangement

President of the Jamaica Football Federation, Captain Horace Burrell, said with the appointment of Whitmore, there were concerns from many quarters as to whether or not the sponsorship arrangement would continue.

"The questions were put to Stewart Motors and when the response came from them, we were all stunned. To that end, they did not blink an eye, but rather they said they would quickly and immediately pass over the BMW to Whitmore," Burrell said.

Burrell thanked Stewart Motors for their continued support, not only for the BMW, but for the use of their Suzuki brand to other members of his staff, including the transport of VIPs when they visit Jamaica.

Believe in our people

"I am thankful to all the sponsors that support the Reggae Boyz programme, without whose support we would not be able to continue with our programmes. We ask you all to believe in our people and to stay with us," Burrell said.

Chairman of Stewart Motors, Richard Stewart, said his company was happy to continue its sponsorship of the Reggae Boyz.

"We wish them luck in going forward. Now that Whitmore is the national coach and he is coming from within, we expect great things from this partnership," he said.

Meanwhile, Whitmore said he was a bit excited and looked forward to driving in it, but declared that he was not concentrating on the vehicle, but was focused on doing his job.

Jamaica's Reggae Boyz are currently preparing to take part in the Gold Cup, which kicks off on July 3 at the Home Depot Centre in Los Angeles, California.