Hibernian Community Foundation launches new-look Ron Gordon Football Festival
The Hibernian Community Foundation is excited to announce the launch of a new-look Ron Gordon Football Festival on Saturday, June 21 at Hibernian Training Centre.
Featuring members of the current Hibs squads, coaching staff, and legends, this year fans have an opportunity to be coached by their heroes whilst raising funds for a wide range of community initiatives.
Following on from the mould set by the inception of the Ron Gordon Football Challenge in 2023, this year will once again allow members of the Hibernian Community to play at HTC for one day only, with some very special guests at the helm of each team.
Already signed on to coach teams on the day is Hibernian men’s captain and HCF board member Joe Newell.
“The Foundation do such great work for our community, so I was all too happy to get involved when I was asked,” said Newell.
“It’s an exciting new twist for the day and it’ll be really great to get some of the boys involved. When I put it to them some jumped at the chance, so we’ll see how we go and who can give their team the best chance of winning their matches!”
The current captain is not alone in making his managerial debut at HTC, as joining him on the touchline will be Cadden brothers Nicky and Chris, Jordan’s Obita and Smith, and young-gun Rudi Molotnikov. The star-studded manager list doesn’t stop there, however, with more players, coaching staff and legends expected to be announced by HCF in coming days and weeks.
Proceeds from purchasing a spot in each team will go towards HCF’s various initiatives surrounding the Hibernian Community, including: community meals, events for the elderly, mental health support networks, initiatives for New Scots, and community football.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have Joe and the others signing on this year for the Ron Gordon Football Festival,” said HCF Board Chair Steve Smith.
“The work done by the entire team at the Foundation affects the community in such a positive light, and whenever players – current and past – get involved it always allows us to elevate the event and draw more attention to the great work we do. I’m really excited for the day and can’t wait to see how the players go with their coaching.”
The Ron Gordon Football Festival is named in honour of Hibernian FC’s late owner, Ron Gordon. Ron was passionate about the work done by HCF and about providing football opportunities for all, regardless of their background.
The structure of the day will follow a slightly different format to previous years. The morning will act as a showcase of HCF’s Community Clubs, offering them the chance to play at HTC. The afternoon will then follow the format of a 7 a-side round robin tournament in which Hibs players past and present will attempt to coach their team to victory. Over the course of the day there will be food trucks and family fun on offer for families and players to enjoy.
To secure your spot in your team of choice, click here.
More times and slots will be announced in the lead up to the event as we look to give as many of our community members as possible the chance to take part. Keep your eyes on club and foundation social media channels to see these.
For more information on the day itself, visit the event page here.