Guernsey’s new home of football is gearing up for a weekend of football action when it opens its gates to the public for the first time next month.
Guernsey FC’s men’s team will kick off the proceedings at Victoria Park on Saturday 29 March when they host Woking’s Westfield FC.
The match will be presided over by His Excellency The Lieutenant-Governor, who will oversee the coin toss for the venue’s inaugural fixture. Football fans will be invited to stay on after the game for live entertainment and hospitality at the Clubhouse.
The following day, a Girls’ Community Football Festival will take place in the morning, organised by the Guernsey FA.
The event will be supported by Guernsey FC Women.
The Girls’ tournament will be followed in the afternoon by the first Victoria Park Football Festival, which will provide an exciting opportunity for young players to experience playing on the world-class stadium pitch for the first time.
Rob Jones, Director at Victoria Park, said: “We are thrilled to finally announce the date for Victoria Park’s official opening. The launch has been planned to showcase the inclusive nature of football here in Guernsey, from the Green Lions’ inaugural game on their new home ground to a celebration of grassroots football through our junior tournaments. We’re looking forward to welcoming football fans old and new next month to enjoy some competitive sport set against a backdrop of warm hospitality.”
Gary Roberts, CEO of Guernsey FA, said: “After 10 years in the making and much anticipation, we’re excited to finally introduce islanders to Guernsey’s new home of football, and new home of the Guernsey FA. The launch is the culmination of many years of planning and perseverance and now, not only marks a huge chapter in the island’s football history but also, provides an unrivalled opportunity to celebrate the popularity of the game at all levels. We, at the Guernsey FA, can’t wait to welcome everyone to Victoria Avenue for the celebrations and the many years to come.
Tony Vance, Manager and Club Director of Guernsey FC, said: “There has been so much anticipation about Guernsey FC’s first fixture at their new home ground, so we’re thrilled we can finally announce it.
“The Green Lions have a loyal and aspiring fan base, so having the chance to welcome everyone to this purpose-built stadium is a huge milestone for the Club. We’re looking forward to embracing this wonderful facility in what will be a new beginning for Guernsey FC, where we can aim to sustain ourselves and look to push the club forward once again”.
Saturday will be a ticketed-only event. Tickets will be available to buy on www.guernseyfc.com soon. For more information about Victoria Park visit www.victoriapark.gg.