Festival of Football a huge success
Teams from right across the Scottish Borders converged on the Netherdale pitches in Galashiels for the 16th Live Borders/Scottish FA 2019 Festival of Football on Sunday.
The annual Festival is one of biggest participation events in Scotland with close to 1200 children taking part for 120 across seven age groups, ranging from age six to 13.
The Festival continues to grow from the first year when Scottish H.A.R.T. first wanted to create a football event in memory of Cameron Gunn. Cameron was a young man from Selkirk who died of a heart condition known as cardiomyopathy whilst playing football on the eve of his 20th birthday.
Live Borders Chief Executive, Ewan Jackson said the event continues to go from strength to strength.
“This Festival plays a key role in encouraging primary school pupils to play football and it was really rewarding to see so many young people enjoying competitive sport,” he said.
“The Festival of Football is a fabulous showcase of football at all levels, from playing for fun for the six year old to the newest addition of 9v9 matches for the 12’s age group.
“It takes our team months of hard work to organise the event but when you see the enjoyment in the faces of all the boys and girls from across the region, it certainly makes it worthwhile. It’s a perfect fit with our vision for our communities to be healthier, happier and stronger.”
The event started in style with a fixture between Girls Under 13 match between Lauderdale and Hibernian Development team on the 3G Arena.
There was also plenty activity off the pitches with the Live Borders Speed Shot occupying many children and adults alike.
Scottish FA Development Officer Drew Kelly thanked Scottish Borders Council who supported the event but made a special recognition to everyone who made the day the success it was.
“I’d like to recognise the great work done by the local Scottish Borders Junior Football Association, the Football Clubs, coaches, volunteers, parents and of course the young footballers throughout the Scottish Borders,” Drew said.
“The Festival of Football’s success is always down to the commitment and support they give football development in the area.”
Click HERE to see the photo gallery of the Festival of Football.
Live Borders is a charity. Every penny you spend with us is reinvested into supporting active, creative and healthy communities in the Scottish Borders.
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