After a five-year hiatus. the Police Five-a-Side Tournament is set to return to Dunoon Stadium this June, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever.
The 43rd annual event, which was called off in 2023, will once again bring the community together for a weekend filled with football and family fun.
The tournament kicks off on Friday, June 27, with primary school athletics and five-a-side football, followed by the under-10’s to under-16’s competitions on Saturday, June 28.
The action concludes on Sunday, June 29, with the over-16’s and adults taking to the field.
Registration opens at 9:15 a.m., with the first match set to start at 10:00 a.m.
The closing date for team entries is Sunday, June 15, so make sure to get your teams signed up in time.
A spokesperson for the organisers said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be bringing back the Police Five’s Tournament this year, especially as this will be the 43rd event.
Many of us on the committee have fond memories of participating as children in the school sports and football tournaments, so it’s particularly special to us to be able to restart this beloved event.
After the challenges of last year, it feels like a real victory to see it return to the community, offering an opportunity to unite people of all ages and backgrounds.”
The committee, made up of five local police officers from various departments, has been working hard to ensure this year’s tournament will be a success. They added: “We’ve all seen the impact it has in bringing together families, strengthening community bonds, and providing a positive and safe space for people of all ages.”
Their efforts are backed by improved partnerships with local services and a proactive approach to ensure the event’s safety and accessibility.
What makes this year’s tournament even more special is the renewed commitment from the community.
After the last cancellation, it became clear just how much the event is valued by local residents.
The spokesperson added: “We’re confident that with everything in place this year – from logistics to safety – the tournament will be a fantastic success.
“The Police Five’s Tournament is not just about football, it’s an opportunity to promote physical health, inclusivity, and social cohesion while fostering positive relationships between the police and the public.
“Families will be able to enjoy various stalls and activities, while young people have the chance to engage in sports that benefit both their physical and mental health.
“It’s also a chance to create safe spaces for youth to interact with the police and partner agencies in a fun, supportive environment.
“The benefits of events like this are immeasurable.
“They help strengthen bonds between local services and residents, promote active lifestyles, and foster a sense of belonging and community for everyone involved.”
For more information or to sign up your team, visit the tournament’s Facebook page or email [email protected].
