AMID much expectation and excitement, the 2017 edition of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Championship, was officially launched yesterday at the Thirst Park Sports Club.

The event which will commence tomorrow at the East Ruimveldt Community Centre tarmac (California Square), comprises 32 teams battling in an initial round-robin format, comprising eight groups of four teams.
Upon the conclusion of the group stage, the top two finishers from each pool, will advance to the round of 16 elimination section.

The event will feature new rules. The most important addition will occur in the final three minutes, as any goal scored in that period, will result in the team being awarded two goals. It is called a ‘Guinness Goal’.
Similarly, each team will only be allowed two fouls per half, with the third infraction and every foul thereafter, resulting in a penalty kick being awarded to the opposition.

Also, if any player intentionally kicks the ball outside of the arena, based on the judgement of the referee, that individual will have to leave the match for three minutes, effectively reducing their team to three players for that period.
The other playing dates are November 23, 25 and 30, December 2, 5, 7, 9 and 16. Also, the other venues that will be utilised are Albouystown, Burnham Court, National Cultural Centre and Demerara Park.

Lee Baptiste, Guinness Brand Manager, declared,that the event is testimony to the company’s commitment to organising social activities in the communities.
He noted that street football has been an avenue to identify talents in the world, especially in England, noting, “Banks DIH Limited remains committed to social activities in the communities. I wish all the teams the best of luck to show that your community is made of more.”

Colours Boutique representative, Creanna Damon, affirmed that her company is once again proud to be associated with the tournament.
Rawle Welch, representative of Three Peat Promotions, thanked the company for the affording his organisation the opportunity to coordinate the championship, declaring that the record number of team submissions for the recently concluded playoff section, indicates that the event is growing in popularity.

Welch added that he expects a very competitive tournament, affirming that many of the teams possess the necessary talents to emerge victorious.
Winners of the overall event will walk away with $500 000 and the championship trophy along with automatic qualification for the National Playoffs.

The runners-up, third- and fourth-place finishers will receive $250 000, $200 000 and $100 000 respectively.
The event is also sponsored by Colours Boutique.