A very generous gesture from a long-time Phoenix supporter and football coach has kicked off a massive opportunity for clubs ahead of the Wellington Phoenix’s final game of the season this Saturday at Westpac Stadium.
A very generous gesture from a long-time Phoenix supporter and football coach has kicked off a massive opportunity for clubs ahead of the Wellington Phoenix-s final game of the season this Saturday at Westpac Stadium.
Wellington football clubs have been challenged to get as many players and families along to the game as possible with the top club taking away a huge prize of $2000.
Merrick Keenan, a coach with the North Wellington football club who has also been involved in coaching and player development in the region, put up $1000 of his own hard earned money to the club who managed to get the most people along to the game.
The Wellington Phoenix were amazed by the generosity of Keenan and matched his contribution, taking the prize money to $2000.
“Having been a player, coach and supporter of many academies, clubs and schools, I have first-hand knowledge of how things can improve with a little more teamwork, openness, communication and support. I am putting a challenge out to the clubs to front up together and shout out for the Phoenix who despite all sorts of injuries, have played some of the most attractive football seen here.”
Keenan says his personal motivation behind the gesture is to strengthen the link between clubs, Capital Football and the Phoenix and celebrate the strength of football in the region.
Wellington Phoenix General Manager David Dome said “Clubs working together is key for the growth of football. Merrick-s contribution is very generous and we hope this is an added incentive for clubs to encourage their players to come along on Saturday”
Clubs have been given a unique code when pre-buying tickets to track their sales which will be calculated after the game on Saturday and announced on Monday.
Saturday-s game against Melbourne Victory will also feature over 15 junior football clubs who will take to the field prior to kick-off as part of the Junior Player March celebrating the start of the football season in the Capital.
Wellington Phoenix v Melbourne Victory
Westpac Stadium
Saturday 12 April – 5:30pm kick-off
Tickets from www.prod.wellingtonphoenix.aleagues.com.au
