Foundation’s big Day

NEWCASTLE United Foundation’s Play on the Pitch Fundraising Day raised £28,000 to support the Foundation community projects.

The event saw around 1,000 people walk out into the stadium throughout the day.

It began with a tournament involving schools from the Newcastle East Academy Trust (NEAT).

This was followed by the Foundation Cup 2018 corporate five-a-side tournament in which 16 teams participated - including a team from the Newcastle United Former Players Association.

The tournament was eventually won by Zumtobel City – the second time they have taken home the trophy in two years.

After the Zumtobel celebrations had come to a close, 300 children were welcomed on to the St James’ Park turf to take part in children’s coaching sessions led by Foundation staff.

Magpies’ mascots Monty and Maggie added stardust to the occasion, heading out to pose for pictures with the players and show off some of their footballing skills.

The day came to a close with an 11-aside game.

Trialists for the Foundation’s BTEC Sport course, in partnership with Consett AFC, took to the field to show coaches why they should be selected.

Yvette Thompson, Communications and Events Manager at Newcastle United Foundation said: “We were really grateful to the club for giving us use of the pitch at St James’ Park.

“It enabled us to raise significant funds to support our community projects.

“It was amazing to have so many people join us to take part in various activities throughout the day. “

The Foundation worked with more than 50,000 people in communities across the region last year.