All set for ‘Bragging Rights’ beach football this weekend

The stage is set for three days of intense rivalry among 16 of the country’s top street football teams in the inaugural ‘Bragging Rights’ tournament on the Marriott beach front.

The tournament will kick off on Friday (October 19) and conclude two days later, and is the brainchild of Marlon Jacobs, popularly known as ‘Freedom Boss.’

The National Sports Commission and Ansa McAl Trading have thrown their support behind the tournament, which has cash prizes amounting to $500,000.

At the official tournament launch on Wednesday at the National Sports Commission office on Homestretch Avenue, Jacobs said a weekend of excitement and keenly contested football is anticipated.

Jacobs highlighted that while the playing turf would be different, the street football concept would not be diminished as rules from that version of the game would apply.

Entrance fee is $1,000 per night, but Jacobs indicated that patrons can secure a “season pass” for $2,500, guaranteeing access to all three nights.

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, said the National Sports Commission is “excited” to partner with the organisers, stating that they had no hesitation in offering support after learning of the concept.

“It provides an opportunity for young people who otherwise would not have those opportunities to be part of such a tournament,” Jones explained.

The Director noted that virtue of the location of the venue, he is anticipating large crowds at the event as the local teams put their skills on show.

Errol Nelson of Ansa McAl Trading lauded the Jacobs and his team on bringing the tournament to fruition, noting that his company is pleased to hop onboard as a beverage partner.

The participating teams are: Diamond (Buxton), Uprising (Golden Grove), Silver Stars (Berbice), Avacado, Sparta Boss, Back Circle, Leopold Street, Gold Is Money, North East, Tiger Bay, Kingston, Swag Ent (Linden), Dave and Celina (Linden), Beterverwagting, Future Stars and Agricola Warriors.

The teams will be divided into four groups of four, and will play two games each on the opening night, Friday October 19. On Saturday October 20, the teams will play their final group-stage games, while the top teams will advance to the quarter-finals.

The semi-finals and final will be held on Sunday October 21. Several exhibition games will also be played during the three days.