Watch Manchester United and Aberdeen managerial legend Sir Alex Ferguson begin the 50-day countdown to Euro 2020 by backing UEFA project encouraging local grassroots football teams to apply for Club Legacy Packs with free equipment up for grabs
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SIR Alex Ferguson believes Scotland’s EURO qualification and Hampden Park co-hosting can inspire a new generation of footballers.
And the former Manchester United and Aberdeen legend is encouraging grassroots football clubs across the country to try and grab one of 50 UEFA EURO 2020 Glasgow Legacy Packs on offer this summer.
The packs, which include footballs, bibs and goals, will be awarded to Scottish FA-affiliated clubs as the countdown to the European Championships - which includes four matches at Glasgow's Hampden Stadium - marks just 50 days to go until the start of the action.
Harmony Row, the youth team that nurtured a young Sir Alex in his native Govan and was subsequently saved by Scotland’s most successful manager, have received the first of the legacy packs.
The man who led the Dons and Man united to European glory believes the long-awaited return to a major tournament for the Scotland team this summer will inspire a younger generation to love the game as he did on the famous 50 Pitches overlooking the Govan shipyards.
The Scottish FA has teamed up with Glasgow Life to release 50 individual UEFA EURO 2020 Glasgow Club Legacy Packs which are on offer to enhance the provision of grassroots football activities.
To celebrate the 50 Days To Go landmark, community football clubs and organisations that hold Scottish FA Quality Mark accreditation are being offered the opportunity to win packs of equipment including balls, bibs and goals, which will play a role in the development of the nation’s future generations of young footballers.
Apply for a Legacy Pack here.
“You can see and feel the impact of Scotland qualifying for the EURO,” said Sir Alex. “It’s the boost we all needed after dealing with the pandemic.
"It was absolutely fantastic: from David Marshall’s reaction to that save, not knowing if it had been allowed by the referee, to Ryan Christie’s interview immediately after the game – he had me crying!
“Lockdown has been a difficult time for all of us but for kids especially. It’s fantastic to see my old boys club, Harmony Row, benefit along with other youth clubs and it’s an important part of qualifying from the Scottish FA and the city: to make sure that it has a direct benefit to young people. Harmony Row played a pivotal role in my development from a very young age, not only as a footballer, but as a person.”
Synonymous with youth football in Glasgow since being established over a century ago, Harmony Row has become a symbol for the importance of community football teams. The club is now set to play a pivotal role in delivering the legacy of the city’s co-hosting of UEFA EURO 2020, by nurturing youngsters who have been inspired by Scotland’s historic qualification.
Gary Watt, Director of Football at Harmony Row, said: “The youngsters across each of our age groups have been truly captivated by the excitement surrounding this summer’s tournament and we’re delighted that they will directly benefit from Glasgow’s hosting of UEFA EURO 2020 through the legacy packs.
“I would encourage all accredited clubs across Scotland to get involved and ensure that they are reaping the benefits of kids’ current interest in the men’s and women’s national teams.”
Dr Bridget McConnell CBE, Chief Executive of Glasgow Life said: “Glasgow has a proud international reputation for hosting major events, not only for delivering first class events, but for ensuring that they result in a tangible legacy for the citizens of Glasgow and beyond.
“After what has been an incredibly difficult year for everyone and particularly for young people, it is fantastic to see these UEFA EURO 2020 Glasgow Legacy Packs being rolled out to support grassroots football.
“Congratulations to Harmony Row for being the first club to receive their pack. Community clubs play a key role in encouraging young people to take part in physical activity, benefitting both their physical and mental health and this is vital as part of the country’s recovery strategy, as well as hopefully inspiring future generations of players. We are indebted to Sir Alex for his support.”
Entries close at 5pm on Sunday 9th May, with the winning selections being made by representatives of the Scottish FA and Glasgow Life.
