THIS weekend, the Fond Assau playing field in Babonneau will be buzzing with excitement as the MPR soccer action kicks off.
Football fans across the country are known for their passion, and the Babonneau community is no exception. Fond Assau is proudly recognized as the ‘Home of Soccer’ in Babonneau.
The launch of this season’s MPR Promotions Football Championships took place on Thursday at the Babonneau Multi-Purpose Centre, drawing in tournament organizers, sponsors, club representatives, and other interested parties.
Eight teams are set to compete in the tournament, which will run from August 3 to 25 at the Fond Assau playing field. The teams include Northern United, Pioneers FC, New Generation, and Big Players, along with Boguis United, Garrand FC, GMC United, and Dominators.
The MPR (Money, Power, Respect) promotional team has been dedicated to this initiative for years, providing a platform for players from the community and surrounding areas to showcase their skills.
MPR Promotions’ tagline emphasises their commitment to football, and corporate sponsors have shown their support for this venture aimed at steering young people away from crime and trouble.
In light of the recent crime wave and gun violence in the community, sponsors’ representatives highlighted the event’s theme of ‘Peace, Unity, and Togetherness (and Love).’
Newly appointed Tournament Organizer Anne Marie Gregg spoke about the tournament’s popularity, noting that despite some challenges, the MPR football tournament has grown significantly and is eagerly anticipated by the public.
Monetary prizes will be awarded to the top finishers: $4,000 plus a trophy for 1st place, $2,000 plus a trophy for 2nd place, and $1,000 plus a trophy for 3rd place. Outstanding players will also receive individual prizes.
Parliamentary Representative for Babonneau, Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, endorsed the tournament, expressing her satisfaction with the organizers’ efforts and the community’s involvement in supporting the youth and keeping Babonneau vibrant.
MPR’s CEO, Cleus Delice, noted the evolution of the promotional team from staging small events to becoming a registered Events & Promotions Company. He praised his team of “phenomenal ladies and hard-working men” for their dedication since 2018. Delice added, “Last year the tournament was good… but we are stepping up a notch to make it even better this year.”