BY SHERDON COWAN

JAMAICA’S cricketers will showcase their football talent when the annual Bell/Ziadie Memorial Extravaganza celebrates its 27th anniversary with a day of fun, frolic and entertainment on Heroes Day, Monday, October 20, at Winchester Park, St George’s College.

Jamaica’s cricket team will go up against teams such as The Masters, Celebrities and Entertainers, St George’s Old Boys Invitational team, and the Media & Sponsors team in a round-robin style format. The first game is schedule to kick off at 2:00 pm, with the day’s event culminating with The Masters, Celebrities and Entertainers versus the St George’s Old Boys Invitational team.

This special event has always been a celebration and recognition of the lives of former Jamaican national footballers and coaches, Jackie Bell and Dennis Ziadie, both of whom died tragically in a motor vehicle accident while attending the 1986 World Cup Finals in Mexico.

The event is the brainchild of Clive ‘Busy’ Campbell, a former Santos player and current manager of national track athlete Jermaine Gonzales, who was scheduled to travel with the deceased on the Mexican tour.

Campbell told the Jamaica Observer that sponsorship is not as much as they were hoping for, but expressed gratitude to those that have come on board, while making an appeal for support from players and the public.

“It is all about fun, and I am asking the public and players to make a donation as we continue our journey to ensure that the young people are afforded a solid foundation in proper facilities. Do it for the love of the game and the passion you feel as we try to generate as much funds to help our kids,” he urged.

Proceeds from the event will be used to assist infant schools located in the East Kingston area such as Franklin Town, Rollington Town and Vineyard Town.

Former national players Ricardo ‘Bibi’ Gardener, Shavar Thomas, Gregory Messam, and Walter ‘Blacka’ Boyd, all of whom participated last year, will take part in this year’s competition.

Also down to take part are entertainers Chris Martin, Wayne Marshall, Aidonia, Lukie D, and Tony Curtis.

In addition, world and Olympic double sprint champion Usain Bolt and quarter-miler Jermaine Gonzales have also been confirmed.

Over the years, Campbell has honoured persons in the category of football, from past president of the JFF, FIFA referees, and St George’s College Old Boys to administrators.

This year’s event will honour football stalwarts Errol Morgan, former FIFA referee; Danny Lyn, St George’s College Old Boy; and Jimmy Ross, former Railway Football Club and national player.

Adults will be charged $500, while children will pay $100. Sponsors will also have on-the-ground giveaways, and a number of artistes will take the microphone to make impromptu performances.