Addressing members of the media yesterday, Frank `English’ Parris said this year’s tournament will be the sixth edition and promises to be more exciting that the previous ones.

He said when the tournament got underway in 2000, 24 teams were involved, but this year there are 32 teams that will be vying for the top prize of $500,000.

According to co coordinator Kashif Mohammad, the budget for this year’s tournament is in excess of $4.5M while the total prize money values just over $1M.

He said patrons will be afforded tight security within and outside the playing venue.

Asked if the National Sports Commission is playing a part in the sponsorship, Mohammad said to date only Ansa McAl has come on board but he will be happy if other entities including the NSC could come forward and offer their support.

The company’s Marketing Director Troy Cadogan said his company is pleased to be associated with the tournament and has been part sponsoring it from 2002, but this year, Ansa McAl has decided to plug major sponsorship into the tournament.

According to Cadogan, Futsal is the fastest growing sport in the world.

Parris in brief remarks reminded that when the tournament started in 2000, Fruta Conquerors, the defending champions won it, but since then, BK International Western Tigers, Benn Street, and Flamingo have all won over the years.

Meanwhile, the 32 participating teams for this year’s competition are; Pele, Sunburst Camptown, Alpha United, Fruta Conquerors, GDF, GFC, Uprising, Western Tigers, Santos, Flamingo, Northern Rangers, Black Pearl, Thomas United, UG, Beacons, Buxton United, BV/Triumph, Victoria Kings, Mahaica Determinators, Ann’s Grove, Golden Stars, Plaisance, Cougars, Milerock, Topp XX, Silver Shattas, Winners Connection, Pouderoyen, Uitvlugt, East Bank and Riddim Squad.