The Victoria Park Charity Shield returns next month following a successful inaugural year.
The 7-a-side football tournament is open to all islanders who are challenged to “Kick for a Cause.”
Nick Graham, Chairman of the Victoria Park Steering Committee, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the Charity Shield back to Victoria Park for a second year. The inaugural tournament showed just how powerful football can be in bringing people together, and we’re proud to build on that success by supporting three causes that each make an important contribution to our community.”
This year’s chosen charities are the Mike Thomas Fund, Guernsey Motor Neurone and Bowel Cancer Guernsey, who will split the funds raised on the day.
Mr Graham added: “Victoria Park was created to be much more than a home for football; we want it to be a place that brings the community together and can make a positive difference beyond the pitch.
“The Charity Shield captures that perfectly – a day of friendly competition, great fun and, most importantly, an opportunity to raise valuable funds and awareness for three very deserving local charities.
“We hope teams, supporters and families will get behind this year’s event and help us make the 2026 Charity Shield another fantastic day for Guernsey.”
Teams can enter for £500 and will receive a charity football shirt while the rest of the proceeds go directly to the supported charities.
The Mike Thomas Fund, named in memory of Guernsey FC physiotherapist Mike Thomas, was founded following his death in 2015. It supports Guernsey FC players in financial hardship, particularly when a footballing injury affects their ability to work.
Tony Vance, speaking on behalf of the Mike Thomas Fund, said: “The Mike Thomas Fund has always been an initiative close to my heart, not only because he was such a special friend, but also because it is hugely relevant given the service and personal support he gave to injured players at Guernsey FC.
“Being part of the Victoria Park charity football tournament, where Guernsey FC resides, feels particularly fitting. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate Mike’s legacy while raising funds that can make a genuine difference to those Guernsey FC players facing difficult circumstances.”
Guernsey Motor Neurone offers care and support for people living with the disease in Guernsey. It works with the Island’s health professionals to provide equipment, practical and emotional support and advice to anyone diagnosed with MND.
Susie Hunt, from Guernsey Motor Neurone, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to be one of the charities benefitting from this year’s tournament.
“The support we receive from the Guernsey community enables us to continue providing practical and emotional support to local people living with MND, as well as their families and carers. We hope lots of teams and supporters will get involved and help make the day a huge success.”
Guernsey Bowel Cancer is dedicated to enhancing awareness, prevention and diagnosis of bowel cancer in Guernsey. The funds raised will help it continue its work.
Anne Brouard, Chairperson of Bowel Cancer Guernsey, said: “We’re delighted to be returning to Victoria Park for the second charity football tournament.
“Events like this give us an important opportunity not only to raise funds, but also to increase awareness of the importance of physical activity in the prevention of bowel cancer and the importance of early diagnosis.
“We’re looking forward to another brilliant day that brings the community together while supporting three fantastic local causes.”
For more information about the Victoria Park Charity Shield and to register a team, email events@victoriapark.gg and visit the Victoria Park WEBSITE.
