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Soccerthon raises funds for turf fields

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HOCKEY STAR BRETT McLean (being defended by Kary Zimmerman) attempts to move the ball past John Bos and Doug Hillian during Soccerthon at Valley View.

 

The Comox Valley's youngest soccer players, experienced masters players and local celebrities all took to the pitch this weekend to raise money to construct artificial turf fields in Courtenay.

The Comox Valley United Soccer Club (CVUSC) hosted a 24-hour Soccerthon Friday and Saturday to raise awareness and funds toward building an artificial turf field complex at Valley View Park.

While donations are still coming in, the Soccerthon has crossed the $30,000 mark, according to co-ordinator Steve Betts.

Matthew Blecha, president of the CVUSC, was very happy with the event, which featured soccer games, skills competitions, a dunk tank, a silent auction, 50/50 draws, a barbecue and more from 6:30 p.m. Friday to 6:30 p.m. Saturday.

"I think this event has been an absolute tremendous success," he said.

The whole purpose of the Soccerthon was to create awareness of the CVUSC's plans to build artificial turf fields at Valley View Park and to raise funds for this project, he explained.

"The purpose of these fields is to extend the season because artificial turf fields are far more durable than grass," said Blecha. "We're not subjected to any kind of cancellations due to weather, plus they're environmentally friendly."

The entire club was involved in the 24-hour event, and every group participated in the event — from the under-six Bambinos to the senior masters players.

"We have 1,500 members in our club, and today is the end of our house season and our house registration," Blecha said Saturday. "We thought it would be a good idea to do a Soccerthon."

The CVUSC's goal is to raise $800,000 for the artificial turf fields.

"It's been quite successful," said Blecha. "The balance will likely come when the decision to hold a referendum will be announced, and that will likely be in August. When that time comes, the campaign to inform the public will really be in earnest."

In October 2010, the City of Courtenay approved in principle that Valley View Park could be used as the site to construct artificial turf fields with lights.

The entire project, which would include two fields, is estimated to cost $4.115 million, and the CVUSC hopes construction could begin in the winter of 2012.

writer@comoxvalleyrecord.com