Petra Organisation donates balls to schools ahead of 11th Milo Football tournament

The 11th edition of the Milo Secondary School Football Championship is primed for action after the traditional ball donation ceremony from tournament coordinators, the Petra Organisation.

The presentation, held Wednesday at the National Racquet Centre, preceded the official tournament briefing, setting the stage for the main draw, which kicks off on Saturday at the Ministry of Education and Queens College grounds.

The main draw follows the conclusion of regional playoffs.

Twenty-four teams will compete in the main draw, divided into six groups of four. Group stage matches will be 70 minutes in length.

The intensity ramps up in the quarterfinals with 90-minute contests, while extra time will be introduced from the semifinals.

Penalty shootouts will decide drawn matches in the round of 16 and quarterfinals.

Petra Organisation Co-Director Troy Mendonca confirmed that the final list of participating schools will be finalized on Friday, noting the tournament’s continued popularity.

“The interest keeps growing, which speaks to the success and appeal of this championship,” Mendonca said.

Joel Gonsalves, representing the Ministry of Education’s Allied Arts Department, emphasized sports’ critical role in youth development.

“Sports are vital for the development of the child,” Gonsalves stated, highlighting the positive impact on both mental and physical well-being. He also stressed the importance of fair play, sportsmanship, and respect for officials and opponents.

Assistant Director of Sport Franklin Wilson underscored the government’s commitment to supporting youth sports initiatives.

“This tournament is an investment in the development of these players,” Wilson said, adding that sports provide a platform for players to elevate themselves on and off the field.

The championship boasts significant prizes, with the winning school receiving $300,000 towards a school project.

Second, third, and fourth-place finishers will receive $200,000, $100,000, and $75,000 respectively, also for school projects.

Individual awards for MVP, Best Goalkeeper, and Highest Goal Scorer will be presented, along with an award for the most disciplined school.

Chase’s Academic Foundation enters the tournament as the defending champions.