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Mark Your Turf: Be a part of history, one foot at a time!
Mark Your Turf: Be a part of history, one foot at a time! image

Gorge Soccer pitches fundraising program for new turf

 

For the past 15 years, countless Victorians of all ages have enjoyed playing on the Gorge Soccer Association’s turf at Hampton Park.

Hosting thousands of local soccer players, plus school programs, Indigenous teams from the Songhees, Esquimalt and WSANEC Nations, and other sports teams each year, those same countless feet have also worn the synthetic surface past its usable life span.

But with your help, the Mark Your Turf campaign will let Gorge Soccer replace the turf on both the George Kulai pitch and the John Hughes practice area.

 

Why turf?

Not only is synthetic turf a water-wise solution to natural grass, but it’s a durable alternative that allows play to continue year-round – something grass simply can’t do.

Having consistent, year-round access to a playable surface is one more way to support a healthy, active community for all ages, and provide a positive space for local youth, explains Kelsey Fulton, VP of Senior Programs for Gorge Soccer, which has provided soccer programs for all ages since 1956.

Consider the numbers: Soccer alone welcomes an estimated 11,000 youth players and 3,400 senior players to the Gorge Soccer pitch each year, with the youngest player just three years old and the oldest 80!

 

How can you get involved?

Targeted for completion by summer 2020, the $850,000 Mark Your Turf project requires approximately 10,000 yards of turf for the field and practice area.

While the non-profit community group had experienced an unexpected economic setback five years ago following a misappropriation of funds by a former board member, all debts have been re-paid and new security procedures enacted. Emerging from that, the association has saved about $200,000 toward the project, Fulton notes.

However, the need is still significant. Gorge Soccer members voted to borrow a large portion of the funds needed to complete the project, but the remainder will be funded through grants and fundraising.

Here’s where you can give back … and get a little something in return!

Donate today! From three feet of turf for $200 to 150 feet for $10,000, your contributions will make a vital difference to your community.

Local Indigenous artist Rande Cook is designing a recognition wall for the park that will bear the names of donors. Depending on the contribution level, other opportunities include online recognition, a recognition wall plaque and signage at the park.

“This is an opportunity to position your business in front of thousands of players, families, friends and supporters year-round, and give back to the community at the same time,” Fulton notes.

Secure donations are available online, or contact the association to review the possibilities.

Other ways to get involved include ​canvassing businesses, administration and marketing.

For more information about the Mark Your Turf campaign, visit gorgeturf.com and stay up to date with all the news on Facebook!