Scott tribute tourney gets bigger and better

‘IT was a day he would have loved to be part of,” said the sister of a talented footballer who lost his life three years ago.

Hundreds of participants gathered for the Scott Mackenzie Memorial Tournament at Bignold Park in Wick on Sunday.

It was held in memory of Scott who was tragically killed in a car crash in 2008.

His family, together with East End Boys’ Club, which he attended as a youngster, have held the tournament every year since 2009 in memory of the 17-year-old.

Over 400 young footballers from eight teams took part in the event on sun-soaked football pitches.

Scott’s sister, Claire Mackenzie (28), said that the day could not have gone any better.

“Scott would have been in his element playing at the tournament,” she said. “Football meant everything to my little brother, it was the biggest thing in his life.

“This is the third year in a row that we have held the tournament and it has grown bigger and better every year. We were delighted with the turnout and the support we have received in organising the tournament.

“It means everything to our family.”

Over £3700 was raised on the day with more money expected to come in.

The money was split with East End receiving a cheque for £1000 with seven other clubs each receiving £500 for participating.

As well as action on the pitches, there was also plenty happening off them too.

Attractions on the day included stalls, a tombola, face painting and raffles.

After the children’s competitions, the evening drew to an poignant close when Scotty’s Boys, a side made up of Scott’s friends and former team-mates, beat Staxigoe Untied 5-4 to lift the cup for the very first time.

Organisers have arranged another fundraiser – a prize bingo event – in the Francis Street Club, on Tuesday, June 21, at 8pm.

For more information contact scottmackenzietournament@yahoo.com or Claire on 07907 374 589.

Competition winners – U7: East End Boys’ Club. U9: Halkirk. U11: East End. U13: Thurso Swifts. U15: Halkirk.