George Best Foundation - We did it BEST’S way

We did it BEST’S way

22 May 2008

Each year, the George Best Foundation tries to mark what would have been George’s birthday on 22nd May.

2008 was no different when over 800 children and young people of all ages and abilities descended on the Billy Neill Centre in Dundonald for the "BEST Way Forward "event. The occasion was used to encourage a wider participation in sport by girls and people with a disability and to promote community relations by encouraging cross-community involvement.

Young people from North, South, East and West Belfast, Portadown, Lurgan and Newry took part on the day. Every single child wore beautiful specially designed shirts-half wore a green number 11 and the other half a red number 7 shirt to represent George's teams Northern Ireland and Manchester United.

Spearheaded by the George Best Foundation working in partnership with the Ulster Bank and in association with the Irish Football Association, it was a fun filled day of football for all participants. Whilst football was the main driver, the initiative was used to help to educate and improve the health of all children and help to reduce health issues by promoting healthier living and regular exercise.

An information marquee was set up to provide information to promote social values. Representatives from many organisations were there on the day to chat to the young people and their parents. The IFA's Child Welfare and Community Relations departments were there offering advice on the fight against bullying, discrimination, racism and sectarianism. Forum for Action on Substance Abuse (FASA) were there to give advice to deter those who may be lured into alcohol, tobacco and even drug abuse.

£30k was invested in this hugely successful event, which was a very poignant and positive way to mark what would have been George's 62ndbirthday.