Famous faces from the world of Scottish Junior Football are coming together next month to show off their skills and raise money to support efforts to tackle prejudice in society.
Hosted by Benburb FC the ‘Legends‘ tournament boasts former players from leading junior clubs such as Arthurlie, Beith, Largs and St Anthony’s playing 7 a side. The event will raise money Nil by Mouth’s ‘United Against Division’ programme which works in schools across west central Scotland to help young people understand the impact of sectarianism.
The winners of the competition, which will be in a group format will take home the Alex Gourlay Cup, named in honour of a much loved figure in the world of Junior Football. The event takes place from 1pm on Saturday 8th June at New Tinto Park, home of Benburb with tickets £5 on the gate and children and OAP’S free of charge.
For the first time tickets can be purchased - thanks to support from St Anthony’s FC - online by those attending the event or simply wishing to donate £5 to support Nil by Mouth’s work:
Over the past 12 months Nil by Mouth has delivered the ‘United Against Division’ project in more than 100 schools across Scotland and with an ever growing waiting list for schools to take part the funding raised will help develop the programme as the charity prepares to mark its 25th anniversary in 2025.
Legends Organiser Robert Burns said:
‘I’m a lifelong Arthurlie fan and part of the reason so many people are drawn to Junior Football is the connection between the clubs and the community they are based in and that’s why we want to use the event to promote the work of Nil by Mouth does in these areas. This will be the 15th Legends event and we always get a great turn-out from supporters and players keen to see old friends and renew old rivalries. I hope as many people as possible get themselves down to Benburb and see some of the real Legends of the Junior game strut their stuff.’
Nil by Mouth Director Dave Scott said:
‘It’s fair to say we receive a lot of complaints about the behaviour of football fans but it should also be remembered that there are so many more who go the extra mile to support good causes and events that bring people together. We are indebted to the hard work of Robert and the other volunteers for putting this event together in support of our work. Huge thanks must go to Benburb who are providing the facility at no cost and always make visitors very welcome. It’s a smashing set up at New Tinto Park and it’s a proper family day out with children provided entry free of charge and the social club will be open for people to catch up with old friends before, during and after the tournament. In previous years this event has raised thousands of pounds to support our work in schools and is a reminder that while there are big personalities in Junior football there are even bigger hearts.'