ST ANDREW, Jamaica — Shane Clarke, manager of the Red Hills United Football Club (RHUFC) says the June 8 staging of the Red Hills El Clasico will provide an avenue for players to earn greater opportunities.

Set for the Belvedere Sports Complex in Red Hills, St Andrew, 10 teams will be participating for the Red Hills Retro Link Up Trophy and $300,000.

“The aim of this competition is to bring out talent from the Red Hills area, while bringing the community together for a positive cause. Players highlighted in this league will also earn a call-up to try out for next season’s KSAFA (Kingston and St Andrew Football Association) Championship team,” Clarke told Observer Online.

The competing teams and their sponsors include: Belvedere (Lion Pride), Burnside Hill (Jufo Phone Shop), Cypress Hall (Mobicare), East Kirkland Heights (Chicken N Tings), Gusman (JPS), Happy Grove (A Williams Variety Store), Mosquito Valley (Kustomshouse), Package (Hylite), Rock Hall (Major Marketing), Walkers Hill (Romeich Ent).

Member of Parliament for St Andrew West Rural, Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, also donated $500,000 to purchase jerseys and other equipment.

Meanwhile, Clarke noted that the league has fostered togetherness in the community and its environs.

“Since the start of this initiative last year, the league brought back the community to the complex and ultimately led to the support of our successful Major League team, which went to the final and earned promotion to the KSAFA Championship,” he said.

He is also encouraging everyone to turn on June 8 to support the day of activities.

“It’s all about the community and stimulating a spirit of togetherness. So, persons should come out and support their area or their favourite team,” Clarke continued.

Spectators during a game of football at the Belvedere Sports Complex in Red Hills, St Andrew.