There is still time to register for the third annual mini-soccer tournament for youngsters at the Boleyn Ground which former West Ham United favourite George Parris is helping to organise.
Last summer's event, which was a great success, with teams from 16 counties participating and another group of youngsters will again be getting the chance to play at the stadium at the end of the season - including the addition of Under-7s and Under-8s. The competition format will be the same as before, essentially small-sided football rules (seven-a-side matches - maximum ten players per squad), and the tournament dates are as follows:
Under-12s and Under-7s - Saturday 31 May (9.30am to 1.30pm)
Under-11s and Under-8s - Saturday 31 May (2pm to 6pm)
Under-10s - Sunday 1 June (9.30am to 1.30pm)
Under-9s - Sunday 1 June (2pm to 6pm)
George will host the day and there will be trophies and medals for the winners and runners-up of each competition, plus certificates for all who take part. All participants will also have the opportunity to visit the dressing room areas. The event will again be used to raise money for the Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity and so far more than £3,000 has been raised for this very deserving cause.
The tournaments will again be affiliated with the Essex FA and will give many of the children a possible "once in a lifetime" opportunity to enjoy the experience of playing at this famous stadium. Clubs interested in taking part in next year's event should contact Jeff Garner via email on [email protected] or telephone 07941 877570 for further details.