BEVERAGE powerhouse Banks DIH Limited has announced a significant sponsorship deal for the sixth edition of the highly anticipated ExxonMobil Under-14 Boys and Girls Schools’ Football Championships. The tournament, a cornerstone of youth football development in Guyana, is organised by the Petra Organisation and is now set to kick off on Saturday, June 21, 2025.

Under its popular I-CEE soft drinks, Malta Supreme, Rainforest Water and Tastee Snacks brands, Banks DIH has pledged its support, a move lauded by the organisers as a massive boost for the competition. The partnership was highlighted at the tournament’s official launch at Cara Lodge, where the vibrant future of schools football was celebrated.

Clayton McKenzie, Brand Manager for I-CEE soft drinks, speaking on behalf of Banks DIH, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for supporting youth development through sport.

Troy Mendonca, Co-Director of the Petra Organisation, extended his heartfelt gratitude to Banks DIH for their “overwhelming support.” He emphasised the crucial role such partnerships play in providing a platform for young talent to flourish.

“We are delighted to have Banks DIH on board once again,” said Mendonca.

“Their commitment to the development of our young people is evident, and this sponsorship will go a long way in ensuring the successful execution of this tournament.

The ExxonMobil U-14 tournament is a critical part of our youth football pathway, and with the support of corporate partners like Banks DIH, we can continue to create opportunities for the next generation of football stars.”

The month-long tournament will culminate in the finals on July 12 at the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta Avenue. This year’s competition will see 32 boys’ teams and 24 girls’ teams vying for top honours. The teams will initially compete in a group-stage format before advancing to the knockout rounds.

Notably, teams from Regions Eight and Nine will not be participating in this edition.

The defending champions heading into the tournament are Chase’s Academic Foundation in the Boys’ division and President’s College in the Girls’ division, who will be keen to defend their titles against a host of aspiring challengers.

A significant aspect of this year’s tournament is the emphasis on player-welfare and safety. The Petra Organisation recently partnered with Demerara Mutual to provide insurance coverage for all players and officials and conducted a comprehensive Child-Safeguarding course for coaches and teachers.

The stakes are high, with attractive prizes for both individuals and teams. The top four teams in both the male and female categories will receive substantial financial assistance for school projects.

The winners will receive G$400,000, with the second, third, and fourth-placed teams pocketing G$200,000, G$100,000, and G$75,000 respectively.

Individual excellence will also be rewarded, with the Most Valuable Players, highest goal scorers, and best goalkeepers each receiving a trophy and school supplies valued at G$60,000.

The support from Banks DIH and title sponsor ExxonMobil ensures that the 2025 edition of the U-14 Schools’ Football Championships will be a memorable one for all participants.