The Dandara Group is backing the Isle of Man Women’s Volleyball team at this year’s Island Games in Jersey.

It is the first time in 30 years that a women’s team has represented the Island in the sport, and hopes are high for the Manx squad as it prepares for the 16th Island Games, which take place in Jersey from 27th June until 3rd July.

Thanks to Dandara’s support, the squad will have a brand new official strip as it competes against rivals from Faroe Islands, Jersey, Aland and Bermuda at the Fort Regent Sports Centre, Jersey’s largest sports and entertainment centre.

Club manager and coach Dan Smith said: ‘As any sportsperson will appreciate, having the right equipment can make a big difference to performance and we are extremely grateful for the generosity shown by Dandara in providing the women’s team with their new competition kit.

‘Around 3,000 athletes will be competing in Jersey, which is almost on a par with the number of participants at the Winter Olympics in Sochi last year, so it’s a huge sporting occasion. We feel very honoured that the women’s team has been selected to represent the Isle of Man at this major international event.’

Dandara marketing director Joanna Orton added: ‘The Isle of Man Volleyball Club, like many other amateur sporting organisations on the Island, is run by a group of dedicated, passionate volunteers who give their time for free.

‘Their hard work and that of the women’s team has paid off, and Dandara is delighted to provide the team with their new kit. We wish them and all of the Manx athletes every success at the Island Games.’