The first HELP Jamaica! Cup, Football Tournament was held on Saturday the 22nd of January. We can now hail it a resounding success; a source of joy for the community and the HELP Jamaica! team.

With the friendly permission of the Constant Spring Primary Jr. High School, we invited eight teams from all around the community of Cassava Piece to “battle” for the HELP Jamaica! Cup, on the school’s netball court next door to our compound. In the end the Famous Strikers led by “Chunky Four Star General” won over the Gully Side team led by Andrew “Plantain” Henry, in a close penalty shootout. Third placed finishers were the Young Boyz, who are largely young men in their early to midteenage years. Much hope abodes for the Reggae Boyz!

The tournament got good support from the community. One of its most beknown citizen came out to watch the games, David “Mavado” Brooks. Mavado addressed the gathering and endorsed our efforts in Cassava Piece.

During the course of all these happenings a member of the Gully Side team proved that Cassava Piece yutes are multitalented! Among the team was a upcoming artist “Crimist” who delivered a thrilling performance on the playing field.

Many helpers from the community volunteered to make the whole event successful! Big up to Mr. Michael “Muta” Skyers, president of the Citizens Association of Cassava Piece, the referee, the cooking team Andrew and Odinga whose advice and guidance were invaluable and all the other team leaders; the helpers around Nicki, Ingrid and Debby and last but not least our project manager Fernette, who monitored the whole work around the refreshments in the background. It was a remarkable day and a promising step towards the opening of the Center on February 3rd.

Thanks to each and everybody who helped and contributed to this great event!