The annual LIJSL/Estée Lauder Pink Ribbon Festival was hosted on Saturday, August 9 at Peter C. Collins Soccer Park, and it was a massive success. During the event, over $5K was raised via donations for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
LIJSL teams participated in three rounds of friendly matches from 9 AM – 12 PM, while co-ed staff teams from Estée Lauder competed and the winner was awarded a trophy. Teams from around the League that participated were as follows:
U9/U10 Division
LIJSL Academy 2017
Albertson
Massapequa
Lynbrook/E.Rockaway
U11/U12 Division
LIJSL Academy 2015
Wantagh Seaford
Islandia SC
Northport Cow Harbor
All games were refereed by volunteers from Long Island Soccer Officials and the League would like to thank all the referees and LISO assignor Anthony DeSimone for generously giving their time.
After all the action on the pitch, raffles prizes were given out. Prior to the start of the festivities, a moment of remembrance was had for John Botta, who was a longtime supporter of the event, with his wife in attendance. The trophy in the future for the Estée Lauder competition will now be named in his honor moving forward.
The League has partnered with the Estée Lauder Companies and Breast Cancer Research Foundation, donating the use of the Soccer Park since the inaugural Pink Ribbon Soccer Festival in 2004.
“LIJSL is honored to be a part of this special event,” LIJSL League Programs and Events Manager Stephanie Hernandez said. “The relationship between LIJSL and Estée Lauder continues to grow year after year together supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
“It is so rewarding having so many young players participating and having awareness at such a young age. We thank all the coaches, players, and families for all their support.”
A photo gallery from the day can be seen below: