Sunday morning saw another beautiful sunny day dawn over Abergavenny and a host or gazebos and goalposts springing up all over the Mardy Playing Fields to mark the second annual Mardy Juniors FC Primary Schools Football Tournament. Eighteen teams from five local schools took part in a morning of friendly matches with support and encouragement from their families and friends. Four matches started and finished together by the hoot of a horn as the teams from year 2 (under 7’s) through to year six (under 11’s) played against each other. Llantilio Pertholey, Cantref, Llanfoist, Gilwern and Deri View Primary Schools were all well represented by their pupils, who played with energy, enthusiasm and determination. Some under 6’s also came along to play some friendly games and gain experience of playing outside. This year’s tournament medals and trophies were sponsored by Monmouthshire Housing Association and Ian Atkinson, Director of Property Services and Judith Langmead, Tenant Chair of Monmouthshire Housing Association’s Board came to see the sport and present the awards. Andy Beattie, Monmouthshire’s Football Development Officer toured the pitches and selected 6 players for special awards: Lloyd Walker from Llantilio Pertholey; Zac Oxtoby from Llanfoist; Alex Howes from Deri View; Morgan King from Gilwern; Tom Whiteman from Cantref; and Jake Saunders from Llantilio Pertholey all received special commendations. The BBQ sizzled, the drinks flowed and Rowlestone Court Ice cream came to the rescue of many a young football as the sun streamed down. Steve Thomas, the Club Chair, said “I am delighted with the turn out today, and with the determination and commitment of some of these young players. There are some really skilled players amongst the boys and girls we saw playing today – and the smiles and cheers at the presentation ceremony just showed how much everybody enjoyed themselves.” Mardy Juniors FC are open to new players of all ages, and will be holding their registration day this Saturday (3rd July) from 10-12 in the Mardy Hall for anyone who would like to join the team.
