CELTIC FC Foundation are delighted to launch the 1888 Charity Shield for 2016. Sponsored by the US-based Yours in Soccer Foundation for the very first time, this seven-a-side tournament will take place at Celtic FC’s prestigious Lennoxtown Training Centre on Saturday, June 18. 

The tournament will run on a UEFA Champions League-style, with teams being split into round-robin qualifying groups and then the top eight moving on to the knock-out stages.

The victorious squad of 10 will not only be presented with the Shield and medals on the day of the tournament, but will also receive a fantastic matchday experience at Celtic Park for an SPFL match (date TBC), including official presentation of the 1888 Charity Shield at half-time.

Across 2013, 2014 and 2015 a magnificent total of almost £55,000 has been raised to support delivery of a wonderful partnership between Celtic FC Foundation and Scottish Disability Sport, our Inspiring Sport project. This vital initiative provides physical activity in sport for young people with severe and complex disabilities.

As a result of funds raised through the 1888 Charity Shield, we have developed provision across:

Judo
Boccia
Football
Wheelchair Basketball
SDS Summer Sports Camps
Education & Training programme Disability Inclusion Training (DIT)
Parasport Pathway Festivals
A series of pan disability events and programmes through all 13 Scottish Disability Sport branches across Scotland

With your support of the 2016 1888 Charity Shield, we can continue to expand and develop this key project which fits perfectly within our Equality strand.

Tony Hamilton, Celtic FC Foundation CEO said: “I’m delighted to welcome Jerome Simon and all at the Yours in Soccer Foundation on board this year and thank them for their fantastic sponsorship.

“They believe in Celtic FC Foundation and they can see that we are genuinely making a difference to a lot of people’s lives.

“I’m grateful, too, to all who have already signed up to take part and those who, I’m sure, will enter teams in the coming weeks. This event has been a fantastic day in previous years, with matches played in a competitive yet respectful spirit, befitting of our founding principles.

“I have every faith our 2016 tournament will be just as successful, if not more so, than the last three years.”

Jerome Simon of the Yours in Soccer Foundation added: “We are sincerely honoured to sponsor this event. Any chance to help kids and families through the great game of football is a win for all.

“We look forward to a lively day of competition and spirit, all with the goal of raising significant funds to support Celtic FC Foundation and all the great work they do.”

The cost to enter a squad of 10 players into this year’s 1888 Charity Shield is £1,000. Places are limited and will be offered on first come, first served basis. 

To register your team, please email [email protected] or call 0141 551 4262.