Deluge of entries in BRO bootfest

CEBU, Philippines - Close to 200 teams have signed up for the inaugural BRO National Football Festival set from April 20 to 22 at the Aboitiz Sports Field in Brgy. Subangdaku, Mandaue City.

Even though there is no cash prize involved, many clubs here in Cebu still have thrown their support to the three-day event.

Teams from San Carlos City, Dumaguete and Tacloban have also sent feelers to join the tournament.

Due to time constraints, the organizers have to limit the number of entries in each class except in the men’s open and Inter-BPO.

During a coaches’ meeting the other night at Jollibee-Mango, it was agreed upon by the organizers that they will accept only the first 10 teams in most categories that are able to complete all requirements including the payment of registration fee on or before April 17.

So far, the men’s open division drew 34 teams that will be divided into eight groups. The top squad in each group will proceed into the quarterfinals. The top four will then slug it out in the semifinals, while the remaining two will fight for the championship.

The other categories to be contested are the players 7, 8 and 9, boys 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19, girls 15 and 19, ladies open, executive 35 and 40-above.

All the teams are allowed to change players before their first game.

The players 7 until the boys 11 will play in a 9-a-side format, while the rest follow an 11-a-side format.

The schedule of games will be determined by the drawing of lots on April 19 at the venue.   - (THE FREEMAN)