Very special match for the Glentoran Legends
Tuesday 16th March 2010
This Sunday (21st March) the Glentoran Legends will be taking part in a very special game at Ulidia Playing Fields in aid of the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children. Opponents on the day will be a Rosario Youth Club Select and it should prove to be an excellent fundraising event for the most worthy of charities.
The match was the brainchild of Glentoran Legend, Jim Cleary and his son, Jonathan, as they wanted to show their support for the NICFC, who have been of great support to the Cleary family throughout the last year, since Jim’s grandson, Ryan, was born. Sadly, young Ryan was diagnosed with Infantile Fibro Sarcoma last May, only a few months after he was born and has been on various courses of treatment since then. His chemotherapy finished in November and it would seem that the growth has reduced somewhat. Much more treatment lies ahead but through the support of the NICFC, the Cleary’s have gained much strength and help throughout the year.
This Saturday, young Ryan will celebrate his first birthday and to show their thanks to the NICFC, Jim along with Ryan’s father, Jonathon have organised the very special game that will take place on Sunday.
Already a special collection was taken at the recent Big Two game and another is planned prior to the game on Sunday. Currently running via the ForzaTV website is an on-line auction that is also generating much needed funds for the NICFC and another special touch will be the new shirts being worn by the Glentoran Legends, which will incorporate the NICFC logo. Donated by Glentoran captain, Paul Leeman and Umbro, the shirts are being sold at £50 per shirt and should raise another £1,000 for the charity.
In the hope of attracting a large crowd on Sunday the Glentoran Legends are planning to turn out in force to show their support for young Ryan and the Cleary family along with the NICFC,
Over twenty former Glentoran players will be lining up alongside Jimmy on the day , those hoping to turn out are – Rab McCreery , Tommy Leeman , John Devine , Alex Robson , Andy Mathieson , Barney Bowers , Gary Macartney , Liam Coyle , Johnny Jamison , Declan Devine , Jim Smyth , Mark Glendinning , Chris Walker , Gary Smyth , Darren Parker , Tom Cleland , Raymond Morrison , Gary Blackledge , Gary Hillis, Pete Batey , David Keery , Tim Mc Cann , David Keery , Donal O’Brien and Ron Manley.
Also lending his support on the day will be Glentoran manager, Scott Young and hopefully members of the current first team squad.
It promises to quite an occasion; bring your autograph books and a few quid for the NICFC!
Kick –off is scheduled for 12 noon.
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