Growing up in rustic Pimento Walk, St Ann was a great joy for Garnel Reddish, who has a burning desire to give back to the community that nurtured him. His inaugural Reddish Foundation Community 8 V 8 Night League ended on August 6, Independence Day.

The football tournament, which started in April, was won by Chelsea from Lime Top district which beat One Link from Moneague 4-3 on penalties at Pimento Walk Playing Field. Thirteen teams from Steer Town, Beecher Town, Parry Town and Parry Town competed in the league which was split in two zones.

Chelsea were awarded $50,000, while One Link received $20,000. Leading goalscorer (six goals) Tevin Maine of One Link, who missed the penalty that gave Chelsea victory, was awarded $10,000.

Michael Ricketts of Chelsea was named Best Goalkeeper.

In the semi-finals, Chelsea defeated Volume Entertainment 2-1; One Link got the better of St Ann Police Association by a similar margin in their semi.

Reddish, who lives in Florida, told Observer Online that the tournament — which cost US$6,000 to stage — is an outreach to the youth of Pimento Walk.

“It really hurts to see young kids getting involved in crime at such an early age. So, being able to provide them with something productive to focus on makes me feel proud. It took a long time to get everything up and running, but I believe it was very successful, thanks to a lot of hard work, commitment, and dedication,” he said. “Most of the funding came from my donations, along with support from family and friends. Giving back to my community is important to me because I love seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces and providing them with something positive to look forward to.”

The second Reddish Foundation Community 8 V 8 Night League is scheduled to kick off in early October.
– Howard Campbell