Paisley Daily Express

A day to remember

Johnstone amateurs to commemorat­e 20 years

-

for us and we didn’t want to let is pass without marking the occasion.

“It has generated a lot of interest and I’m looking forward to catching up with the people who have contribute­d to the club’s success, survival and continued growth over the years.

“We are now an intergener­ational club with many of our former players now coaching their own kids who are part of the setup. I could never have imagined that when we first formed the club.

“It has been a rollercoas­ter throughout the years but we have had more than our fair share of success and I’ve met some fantastic people, many of whom are now lifelong friends.”

Players from throughout the 20 years will take part in legends match kicking off at 2pm at the McMaster Sports Centre.

Two teams of former and longservin­g players will take to the field watched by friends and family under the guidance of two of the club’s former managers and coaching staff.

This will be the focal point of a fun day at the centre with a Youth Academy Blitz, bouncy castles, football shootout, beat the goalie, face painting, snack bar and much more.

Thorn Athletic have taken the opportunit­y to use the event to help raise awareness of mental health, in particular around young males.

The trophy being contested by the legends is named The Breathing Space Cup and will be presented to the winning captain at event at night.

Literature and advice leaflets will also be on hand at the event as a reminder to everyone involved that ‘It’s okay not to be okay’.

McGee added: “It’s such a big issue these days and it’s important that people know mental health is just as important as physical health. It’s something that has affected almost everyone in some way, if not directly.

“We hope to do our bit to help raise awareness and hope that everyone who is involved with the club will embrace the message we are giving out.”

Tickets for the event are still available from players and committee but can also be purchased from the Thorn Inn or McMaster Sports Centre.

 ??  ?? Starting out It has been 20 years since Thorn first came together
Starting out It has been 20 years since Thorn first came together
 ??  ?? Finalists Thorn enjoyed success in the West Cup back in 2001
Finalists Thorn enjoyed success in the West Cup back in 2001

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom