Write a commentThe first round of matches in the Chairperson’s Be Active Cup kick off this evening, Monday 23 and tomorrow Tuesday 24 July in Jennings Park, Newry and Kilmore Playing Fields, Crossgar all at 7pm.
Sixteen teams in total from various leagues across the district have entered this exciting new tournament in a bid to reach the finals on Wednesday 1 August at Newry Showgrounds.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Mark Murnin along with the Chairperson of Newry City FC, Martin McLoughlin and the Chairperson of Warrenpoint Town FC Connaire McCreavey performed the draw on Thursday 5 July, witnessed by team representatives and representatives from Newry City Special Olympics team, who will showcase their skills at the finals on 1 August. Young team players from local youth teams, who will be taking part in the Chairperson’s Junior Be Active Trophy on 29 July, also watched on. They will also play their final prior to the senior game on 1 August.
Councillor Mark Murnin said, “I am delighted to be part of this exciting tournament that will not only benefit sporting teams across the district but also my chosen charities Glebe House, Northern Ireland Air Ambulance and Newry and District Gateway Club. All the teams are ready to face the challenge of competing against new teams, some of which they have never played against. This will be a fantastic opportunity for the Council to promote sport and encourage strong links between local clubs in the sporting scene.”
Councillor Murnin continued, “I would encourage everyone to show their support to their local football teams as well as these very worthy charities, which do great work throughout the district. Glebe House and Newry and District Gateway Club will have representatives at the matches and I hope that they receive support and recognition from everyone attending the games for the good work which they do for those living in our communities.”
Active and Healthy Communities Committee Chair, Councillor Gareth Sharvin said, “Sports development is very important to this Council and is the beating heart of communities. Sport has the ability to engage, inspire and bring together communities as well as promote health and wellbeing. This tournament supports the local community to further develop sports locally in their areas.”
The competition will take place over four rounds - round one on 23 and 24 July, the quarter finals on 26 July, the semi-finals on 30 July and the grand final on 1 August.
For further information on the Chairperson’s Be Active Cup tournament, fixtures, results and match reports, go to www.newrymournedown.org or email leisureandsport@nmandd.org.
Fixtures
Jennings Park
Monday 23 July, 7pm
Damolly FC V Windmil Stars
Newcastle FC V Saintfield United FC
Tuesday 24 July, 7pm
Ballyvea FC V Drumaness Mills FC
Bessbrook United V Rockview United
Kilmore Playing Fields
Monday 23 July, 7pm
Kilmore Rec V Valley Rangers
Ballynhinch Olympic V Killough
Tuesday 24 July, 7pm
Killyleagh V Tullyvallen Rangers FC
Cleary Celtic V Downpatrick FC
