The first artificial turf football field in Portmore, St Catherine, Joga Bonito, will have a soft-launch opening tomorrow.

Persons are invited to come out with their football crew and try out the new field. For the soft launch, there will be no entry fee and the event will take the form of a friendly six-a-side football competition.

The event kicks off at 4:00 pm with registration closing off at 5:00 pm. Competition is open to the first 20 teams that register.

The facility’s name, Joga Bonito, is Portuguese for “The Beautiful Game” or “Beautifully Played”. The term, which is popular amongst football fans, is often credited to legendary Brazilian footballer Pele.

The field is located inside the complex where the popular Chewsday Restaurant is found at Braeton Parkway, metres away from the New Sovereign Mall.

Following the soft launch, Joga Bonito will start taking bookings for use of the field – individuals, groups and institutions can utilise the field whether for training, friendlies or competitive football. The official opening date of the facility will be announced subsequently.

A 110 by 60 square-foot field, the facility can accommodate a seven-a-side football game. The field also has the necessary lighting for night time utilisation.

The owners said they are very excited and optimistic about the venture, noting that the opening of the field in Portmore will provide persons with the option to utilise a quality field that is more conveniently located instead of travelling to Kingston to enjoy a game of football.

Currently, there are three artificial turf football fields in Kingston.

When the facility officially opens, persons will be able to access the field seven days a week. Opening hours will vary.