The Footballers of Nevis were yearning for some action on the pitch and Curtis Morton Jr heard their consternated pleas and decided to do something about it. In response, he initiated what he referred to as the ‘Morton’s King of the ring Football competition.’ It was a Football competition, which was new to Nevis but not his own invention.He explained that while he was pursuing studies in Trinidad, several years ago, he was introduced to the format of Football and decided to implement it for the benefit of the local Footballers.
The one-night tournament was played at the ET Willet Park, on the evening of Saturday 21st, September and Morton indicated later that he was amazed at the response, not only from the participating teams but also from the sponsors and the huge number of spectators who showed up to witness the event.
It is not a complex format but certainly one which offers constant action and excitement. It involves teams of seven players, with six a side engaged on the pitch and one substitute. Only a specific portion of the regular Football pitch is utilized, with two small goals and matches are of ten minutes duration, with no breaks. The first team to score a goal wins the game and if there is a draw at the end of the ten minutes, two different teams will engage each other. The team that wins the majority of games within the stipulated time period, would win the grand prize.
Thanks to several sponsors, the original prize money (winner takes all), of $250.00, was eventually increased to $360.00.
Players were allowed to register and form teams on the spot, with each player paying a mere $5.00 registration fee. Some eight teams registered and the players enthusiastically engaged each other between the period 6.45 pm to 9.40 pm.
When referees Virgo and Audain called time, team C would have completed five wins and were the clear cut champions. Morton noted that the players and indeed the spectators are clamouring for more and are already asking when he will organize the next tournament. He says that there is more in the offering and his plans even include other sports such as Netball, which he stated, needs an immediate revival.
He thanked the sponsors for the night: Boddie’s restaurant, Redi Reality Architectural designs, Charles and Associates, Robelto Liburd and J and K’s barbecue.
He also had warm commendations for DJ WOODIS who kept the crowd lively with his music and humourous chatter, free of cost. WOODIS was also heard to say that the young Morton should keep a lot more such tournaments until the local Football Association can get its act together