FOOTBALL fever swept through Dines Green to raise cash in aid of the life-saving work at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
The first ever Harrison Cup took place in honour of baby Harrison Dixon who was born prematurely last year.
Doctors battled to save his life, he defied the odds and has proven to be a strong fighter and survivor.
Dad Kieran plays for Dines Green FC, a team sponsored by St John’s County Councillor Richard Udall.
The team wanted to do something to support Kieran and mum Kaci Abel and to celebrate the birth and the fight for survival by Harrison, they agreed on a new tournament to be played annually in aid of Birmingham Childrens Hospital.
An initial target to raise £150 is expected to be beaten.
The tournament took place at St. John’s Sports Centre, with five teams, two from Dines Green FC, two from the Monday Nite Club – a club for adults with learning difficulties and after a special invitation from Coun Udall, a team of teachers from Christopher Whitehead, led by Mr Goffe. It is now hoped to make the Harrison Cup an annual event.
“The tournament got off to a great start, with a large crowd from Dines Green, the Monday Nite Club and with school pupils from Christopher Whitehead, all cheering and supporting their teams,” Coun Udall said.
“It was a wonderful atmosphere, Dines Green dancers, who I also sponsor, came down to entertain the crowd between matches, Harrison was welcomed by everyone, his proud parents and grandparents enjoyed the event, but Harrison slept through most of the games, even when his dad Kieran was playing”.
The shock winners of the tournament were Christopher Whitehead teachers, who won every game and captain Mr Goffe received the trophy from Coun Udall.
Dines Green FC have already asked for a re-match, they intend to gain the Harrison Trophy back, the teachers have promised to protect the trophy and that they will play DGFC again, it has all the makings of a local derby in the making.
