Amateur footballers from Matura Re-United had a fantastic start to 2011 as they collected a $25,000 cash prize after winning the DIRECTV North East Stars Champion of Champions Trophy at Ojoe Rd on New Years Day.
The team overcame a strong challenge from Slappers United, finally winning an exciting penalty shootout after both teams failed to gain an advantage during open play.
The match was the culmination of an exciting 3 week tournament that saw 8 amateur teams from the North East region, who had already won trophies this year, battle out to be the Champion of Champions.
The competition was the brainchild of North East Stars President, Darryl Mahabir, owner of Japs Fried Chicken and was sponsored by DIRECTV.
"I am fortunate enough to have a successful business across the North East region and wanted to reward the loyalty of my customers by providing their local amateur teams with a chance to play for the biggest amateur cash prize in the country" said Mahabir.
"However, now that I have a branch opened in San Juan, it looks like next years competion will have to be even bigger!"
But the day wasn't all football. After the trophy presentation, radio DJs, Gail Ann and Sonny Bling got the party started with CNC3's Katrina, or Katy G as she is better known, hosting the entertainment.
Katrina, co-host of the new football entertainment show, Sancho's Soccerama which will be going out on CNC3 after carnival, introduced a host of performers live on stage.
JW whipped the crowd into a frenzy with an exciting performance, while Shal Marshal and T.C. kept the party going. Shurwayne Winchester and his band Y.O.U. ended the event with a superb set that saw the crowd of 1500 launch carnival season in the North East in style.
North East Stars C.E.O., Brent Sancho said "Its hugely important to the club to ensure we provide a service to our community. We are fortunate to have such generous sponsors who are keen to work with us to provide events like this."
Sancho was particularly proud that entrance to whole event started at $25 for adults. "Where could you see this kind of live entertainment and an exciting football match for $25?"
"Our sponsors have been superb" said Operations Director Kevin Harrison. "DIRECTV are commited to supporting events for the people of this region.
Carib provided a beer tent and Toyota helped to promote the event. We also have to thank Sangre Grande Regional Corporation for their assistance to make this happen. DIRECTV North East Stars are proud to be part of the North East community."
Harrison said that other businesses are keen to add their support for community projects. " This year, North East Stars have shown just what is possible by working in the community.
Now, many other businesses are keen to assist in our community programmes. We have a massive programme of events planned for 2011, touching many areas, including the elderly, school children, victims of domestic violence as well as assisting orphanages and cancer charities."
"Its going to be a busy year" said Events Coordinator Khaty Martin-Jones " We will continue to lead the way in reaching out to our community."
DIRECTV North East Stars now turn their focus onto their trophy winning efforts as they play San Juan Jabloteh in the F.A. Trophy on 26th January.
"We're hoping our supporters will travel down to Marvin Lee Stadium in Macoya to give the boys some support" said Mahabir "We're playing for our 2nd trophy of the season and it will be nice to see our success in the community mirrored on the football field."