THE Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Zone is scheduled to kick-off on March 15, at the renowned National Park in Thomas Lands.

Thirty-two of the top teams from Georgetown will vie for bragging rights and the right to be crowned champion over eight days of competition, along with lucrative prize monies and trophies, while an automatic berth in the national final is guaranteed.

According to Guinness Brand executive, Lee Baptiste, because of the extended absence of the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other unfortunate issues, the organisers are pulling out all the stops to ensure that the event makes an exciting re-entry to the street-style football landscape.

To this end, Baptiste informed that they’ve decided to invite thirty-two of the best teams in Georgetown, which will battle over eight days for the right to be crowned the best in the City.
The other playing days are March 16,17, 22,23,24 and 30 with the final set for the 31st.

Baptiste added that this year’s zone opener will enjoy unprecedented media exposure, assuring that all platforms will be utilised to advertise the event.

“We are quite aware of the popularity of the event and, because of its unfortunate absence for some time, players and fan experience will be a top priority for us, so, very shortly, we will be rolling out our plans to sensitise communities, where these teams will come from, about all the information pertaining to the tournament,” he said.

He disclosed that, apart from the automatic qualifiers, the organisers hope to stage a playoff among teams desirous of competing in the tournament, especially those entering for the first time.

Defending champion Gold is Money will be aiming to secure its third consecutive title, an accolade, if achieved will make it the first team to do so, while the most successful team in the tournament’s history, Sparta Boss, is motivated to stop it (Sparta Boss) in its quest of accomplishing such a feat.

Among the other favoured teams slated to compete are Back Circle, Bent Street, Sophia, North East La Penitence, Stabroek Ballers and Albouystown.

Judging from recent competitions, this year’s Georgetown Zone is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory with a plethora of young upcoming teams already displaying their potential and pedigree.

Baptiste revealed that they are currently in discussion to stage a tournament Launch and details will be forthcoming soon.

This year could also witness a more vibrant community interaction all aimed at bringing communities together to create social cohesion among its residents.

Additionally, the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition has, over the years, been organised to identify talent and with word emanating about the abundance of such residing in the competing communities, the custodians of the sport are advised to have scouts on every scheduled match day.

What is guaranteed are exciting matches and giveaways for fans.