$25,000 first prize and Shurwayne Winchester bringing brass back to Sangre Grande all in one night!
North East Stars Press Release.
The DIRECTV North East Stars Champion of Champions Invitation Football Tournament final takes place on New Years Day with a clash between Matura United & Slappers International.
The teams fought their way through the group stages and triumphed over G.Madrid and Mayaro Spurs to contest the $25,000 first prize. Mayaro Spurs, and Biche outfit, G. Madrid will play to decide who wins the $3,000 third prize and $1,500 fourth prize.
The tournament, believed to be the richest amateur football tournament ever played in T&T, with total prize monies of $38,700, is the brainchild of North East Stars President, Darryl Mahabir, owner of Japs Fried Chicken. "This event proves that the North East Region can host big events" said Mahabir.
"For so often it seems this region is forgotten by promoters. North East Stars main sponsors, DIRECTV and my staff were determined to deliver an exciting football competition backed by superb live entertainment to launch the 2011 carnival season in Sangre Grande."
The third place play-off will kick off at 2pm and the final will begin at 4pm. Slappers International from Arima probably were not expected to reach the final after finding themselves 3-0 down in their first match. However they fought back to earn a 4-4 draw and continued from strength to strength to contest the $25,000 first prize against Matura United, with the runners up receiving $7,500.
North East Stars' Kendal Velux is hoping his goal of the tournament won't be bettered, so he receives the $200 best goal award, while he is also in contention for the $500 most valuable player award. There is also a $1,000 prize for the best team manager and two cases of Carib for the best supported team.
Large crowds are expected to see which team wins the trophy and, no doubt, the licensed bar supplied by Carib will prevent the cheering fans from getting sore throats!
After the trophy presentations, the event host, Katrina,co host of CNC 3's new spring show, Sancho's Soccerama, will introduce the evenings dazzling entertainment.
With top D.J.'s, Boom Champions 94.1's Sonny Bling and 102.1's Galan setting the pace, the crowd will be eagerly awaiting the appearance on stage of Road March kings, J.W. & Blaze, T.C., top soca artist Shal Marshall and, bringing brass back to Sangre Grande, Shurwayne Winchester and the big band sound of Y.O.U.
"This is all about bringing a top class event to the North East at an affordable price" said North Easts' events coordinator, Khaty Martin-Jones "Admission to the event is only $25 before 5pm and $50 after 5pm. We have food retailers and the Carib beer tent, so be prepared to stay all evening, as there's no re-entry!"
"As usual, we have to thank our superb sponsors for their support and belief in the North East Region." said Operations Director Kevin Harrison. "DIRECTV, as always, have excelled themselves in their assistance.
Carib, once again, will make sure supporters are provided with excellent bar facilities. The event also would not be possible without the help of our friends from Toyota, Hadco and, of course, Japs Fried
Chicken"
Stars C.E.O. Brent Sancho said "I'm delighted that Dexter Skeene, C.E.O. of the Pro League will be one of our V.I.P.s on the night. I know Dexter is keen to see professional football return to Sangre Grande, and he fully appreciates the important role that amateur football plays in developing talent.
I'm sure he will be blown away by the passion for football that exists in the North East community."
The event begins on January 1st at 2pm at Ojoe Road Recreational Grounds, Sangre Grande and will end around midnight. Admission is $25 before 5pm and $50 after. There will be no re-entry allowed.
