380 games will be played in this unique 5-a-side football tournament, recreating every game of the current Barclays Premiership in just one day. 20 teams in total have entered the event comprising of male and female footballers.
The unique 12 hour event is the brainchild of Russell Ellis, an employee of Anglian Home Improvements and seasoned charity fundraiser, who has gained the attention of the twelve Premier League teams to have pledged their support by donating signed kit and team merchandise for the event.
BBC cameras will be present to film a piece for Monday’s ‘Late Kick Off’ programme – which will include a special appearance from a few notable former professional players – and there will also be an opportunity for all in attendance to have their picture taken with this season’s Premier League trophy, which is on loan at the FDC between midday and 4pm.
Speaking just days ahead of the event, Russell said:
“We have had an amazing response, ranging right through from kit donations from national businesses such as JJB Sports, to local businesses and individuals all keen to get behind the day and raise as much money as possible for Sport Relief.
“We really hope the auction items that have so generously been donated by Premier League teams, in addition to the fact that we will have the Premiership trophy on show for the afternoon, will entice people down to the FDC to show their support for the event, which will be one of the largest regional activities for Sport Relief 2010 and one we are exceptionally proud to be involved with.”
The event has also drawn praise from one of the country’s leading club managers. In a letter to the event organisers Harry Redknapp, of Premier League outfit Tottenham Hotspurs, commented:
“Congratulations on staging this wonderful event and well done for raising monies for the excellent cause of Sports Relief.”
The football memorabilia donated is being auctioned off online, rather than on the day, and is open to any bidders. Items include the donated team kits as well as a signed football from the players and staff of Everton FC, a signed Ryan Giggs Manchester United shirt, a Stoke City FC shirt signed by the entire squad, a signed framed squad picture from Sunderland AFC, a signed shirt and football from Spurs FC and finally…a home England shirt signed by Fabio Capello!
Sport Relief 2010 is highlighting three key issues; children who live on the streets or work in dangerous conditions, people affected by malaria and local UK projects. All donations will go directly to help work in these areas.
Spectators and supporters are more than welcome to come and watch the action on the day, bid in the auction and have their photo taken the Premier League trophy – so please do pop in!
To bid on any of the auction items, click here. For further information on how to donate, please visit www.mysportrelief.com/premierleague.