Return of Beat the Streets

FOLLOWING the success of the Beat the Streets soccer tournament, which took place for the last two years for fourth, fifth and sixth-year pupils of St Caimin’s and St Patrick’s Comprehensive, the tournament will take place this November.
Beat the Streets is a soccer tournament where teams represent their housing estate or area in five-a-side matches (squads of eight).
Last year was the second year of the event and it proved to be a huge success among the community.
The league is an initiative of Community Garda Diarmuid O’Brien and FAI County Development Officer for Clare, Denis Hynes.
Up to 70 teenagers from Shannon and the surrounding areas took part in the league over four weeks last year, seeking to claim the title. The league got the backing of the FAI and last year’s winners, Tradaree FC from Newmarket, won eight tickets to see the Republic of Ireland playing against Macedonia at the Aviva Stadium.
This year’s tournament will take place at Wolfe Tones AstroTurf every Friday night in November. The perpetual trophy, which was presented to last year’s winners, was sponsored by Jim Madden of the Clare District Soccer League. 
This year’s winners will receive the trophy and eight FAI-sponsored tickets for an Ireland match at the Aviva Stadium. It is hoped a surprise mystery guest of international soccer fame will attend the final night.
“Shannon Beat the Streets is a prime example of how a community-based initiative can provide an alternative activity for teenagers in Shannon and the surrounding areas during the winter months.
“Everyone involved is giving their time free of charge and are a credit to Shannon and the various organisations that they represent. I’d especially like to thank Jim Madden of Sellprint Shannon, the FAI, Wolfe Tones GAA and local volunteers, especially John Kelly, Donal McGee and Martin Monaghan,” said Garda O’Brien.