Craigavon Cup name trophy after wee Jay

Pictured at the launch of the Craigavon Cup, football competition are from left, Sonia McCleary, HR manager ABP Meats, Jay Beattie, Seamus Kenny, general manager ABP Meats, competition sponsors and Thomas McStravick, Craigavon Cup co-ordinator. INLM37-201.

A cross-community tournament, it is fast becoming one of the standout youth challenges attracting top clubs including Leeds United and Glasgow Rangers.

Launching the tournament at the weekend, organisers Playing for the Future CIC have welcomed the ABP Food Group sponsorship for another year.

Next year’s tournament will be on May 13 and they have hooked up with Celtic superfan Jay Beatty and the local charity Downs and Proud.

The partnership will see them run joint fundraising initiatives. The u11 trophy is also to be renamed ‘The Jay Beatty Cup’. Jay’s mum Aine is delighted: “We are proud to be associated with such a prestigious youth football tournament. We all know how much Jay loves football and The Craigavon Cup has kindly offered to call the u11 Cup after him”.

Tournament organiser Thomas McStravick said: “We are delighted that ABP Lurgan have decided to extend their sponsorship. Their support has been a huge help and has played a key role in its success. It shows the level of commitment they have in giving back to the local community and we are delighted to be able to continue our partnership with them”.

“We are proud to be sponsoring the Craigavon Cup for the third year in succession as this is a cross community initiative which is helping to bring all members of the community together through sport.” Said Sonia McCleary, HR Manager, ABP Lurgan