Pocket Rocket Foundation six-a-side heads into business end today

THE GRAND finale of the Pocket Rocket Foundation Six-A-Side ‘Peace Through Sports’ Football Competition concludes today at the Red Stripe Sports Complex, 214 Spanish Town Road in Kingston.

After a thrilling set of semifinal matches, Medley Mixers advanced with an impressive 3-0 victory over Legacy, while Friends For Real edged out Legend 1-0 in a hard-fought contest.

Now, the two teams will battle for the championship title in what promises to be an exciting end to the tournament.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, founder and chairwoman of the Pocket Rocket Foundation, shared her excitement.

“These past few weeks have been amazing. We have achieved some incredible milestones this year – having the most teams ever in the competition and welcoming our first female player. The games have been intense, but what stands out is the sense of togetherness and community. As the competition wraps up, I am really looking forward to seeing what these teams bring to the final. It has been such an inspiring journey, and Sunday is going to be a great way to close it all out.”

The closing ceremony will include the presentation of the Championship Trophy, along with cash prizes of $300,000 for the first-place team, $200,000 for the second-place team, and $100,000 for the third-place team. There are also over $500,000 in prizes for individual awards – Top Goal Scorer, Best Defender, and Most Valuable Player will also be presented, and participation medals will be awarded to the top three teams.

The event begins at 2:00 p.m. with an exhibition match between the Hunts Bay Police and GraceKennedy, followed by the third-place playoff between Legacy and Legend at 2:40 p.m.

The culminating match between Medley Mixers and Friends For Real kicks off at 3:30 p.m.

The competition, now in its ninth year, continues to make a significant impact by fostering peace and unity in the Waterhouse and surrounding communities.

With strong support from the Hunts Bay police, the tournament has helped to create a safe and respectful environment for players, spectators, and supporters.

Superintendent Damian Manderson shared, “For us, this tournament is about building bridges within the community. It gives people a chance to come together in a positive way, promoting unity and creating stronger bonds. The Hunts Bay Police Station is proud to support something that has such a meaningful impact, and we are looking forward to enjoying the final on Sunday with everyone.”

This year’s tournament has been the largest yet, with 20 teams participating in 36 games over several weeks.

The six-a-side competition is sponsored by NIKE, AFIMI, Grace Foods, GraceKennedy’s 876 Water and Lucozade, FESGas, Rymax Lubricants, Dollette and Ken, and Sanmerna Paper Products.