Martin Keown Launches Kickz Tournament

Tuesday 16th February 2010 - 14:45:01

WHAT: Ex-Arsenal player and father of two, Martin Keown and Minister of State for Schools, Vernon Coaker, met local football-inspired youths at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium to launch the ‘Why Let Drink Decide?’ Kickz tournament 2010 and discuss how alcohol can affect young people’s potential both on and off the pitch.

WHY: New measures to tackle underage drinking across the country, including a football tournament, best practise guide and money to enforce new police powers, were launched today.

As part of the Government’s ‘Why Let Drink Decide?’ campaign, thousands of young people will be taking part in the ‘Why Let Drink Decide?’ Kickz Cup 2010, which aims to provide a positive alternative to drinking alcohol and encourage them to have an open and honest conversation about the dangers and consequences.

The launch today will kick off an England wide tournament.  Arsenal Football Club, who hosted the launch, is currently celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Arsenal in the Community.

Supporting the ‘Why Let Drink Decide?’ Kickz Cup, ex-Arsenal and England player and TV pundit Martin Keown says:

"Drinking too much alcohol can seriously affect young people’s physical performance. The ‘Why Let Drink Decide?’ Kickz Cup 2010 aims to engage young people in the issue through football and talk openly to them about the risks associated with alcohol.

"I hope this tournament helps young people to reach their potential both on and off the pitch."

Speaking at the Kickz launch at Emirates Stadium, London, Schools Minister Vernon Coaker said:

"Some young people need more help, support and fun alternatives to drinking, which is why we are launching the ‘Why let Drink Decide?’ Kickz Cup 2010 today.

"Through the tournament and the Kickz staff, young people will get to have fun with their peers on the pitch, alongside the chance to learn about the risks associated with drinking to help them make sensible decisions about alcohol."

Over 2,000 young people across the country are taking part in the Why Let Drink Decide? Kickz Cup, with over games being played at major English football clubs from 27 February until the final in May which will take place at the prestigious Manchester United Football Club.

For more information, log on to direct.gov.uk/whyletdrinkdecide.