Guernsey’s new home of football, Victoria Park, is gearing up for a thrilling weekend of football action when it opens its gates to the public for the first time next month.
From Saturday 29 March to Sunday 30 March, Guernsey’s newest sports venue will welcome fans through its gates at Victoria Avenue for a series of events marking the launch of this exciting new chapter in the island’s football history.
Guernsey FC’s men’s team will kick off the proceedings on Saturday 29 March, when they host Woking’s Westfield FC – the first game to be played at Victoria Park. The match will be presided over by His Excellency The Lieutenant-Governor, who will oversee the coin toss for the venue’s inaugural fixture. Football fans will be invited to stay on after the game for live entertainment and hospitality at the Clubhouse.
On Sunday 30 March, Victoria Park will host a Girls’ Community Football Festival in the morning, organised by the Guernsey FA. The event will be supported by Guernsey FC Ladies and will showcase the growing popularity of girls’ football in the island. The Girls’ tournament will be followed in the afternoon by the first Victoria Park Football Festival, which will provide an exciting opportunity for the many young players who share a love and passion for the beautiful game to experience playing on the world-class stadium pitch for the first time.
Rob Jones, Director at Victoria Park, said: “We are thrilled to finally announce the date for Victoria Park’s official opening. The launch has been planned to showcase the inclusive nature of football here in Guernsey, from the Green Lions’ inaugural game on their new home ground to a celebration of grassroots football through our junior tournaments. We’re looking forward to welcoming football fans old and new next month to enjoy some competitive sport set against a backdrop of warm hospitality.”
Gary Roberts, CEO of Guernsey FA, said: “After 10 years in the making and much anticipation, we’re excited to finally introduce islanders to Guernsey’s new home of football, and new home of the Guernsey FA. The launch is the culmination of many years of planning and perseverance and now, not only marks a huge chapter in the island’s football history but also, provides an unrivalled opportunity to celebrate the popularity of the game at all levels. We, at the Guernsey FA, can’t wait to welcome everyone to Victoria Avenue for the celebrations and the many years to come.
Tony Vance, Manager and Club Director of Guernsey FC, said: “There has been so much anticipation about Guernsey FC’s first fixture at their new home ground, so we’re thrilled we can finally announce it! The Green Lions have a loyal and aspiring fan base, so having the chance to welcome everyone to this purpose-built stadium is a huge milestone for the Club. We’re looking forward to embracing this wonderful facility in what will be a new beginning for Guernsey FC, where we can aim to sustain ourselves and look to push the club forward once again”.
