Football tournament to be held in memory of Dean Johnston

Dean Johnston was just seventeen years old when he took his own life back in 2010 and now family and friends are planning the first ever Dean Johnston Memorial Five-a-side tournament to celebrate his memory.

Dean’s family and friend, Dean McCroary are keeping the memory of the young Ballymena man alive by hosting this tournament at the 3g Pitch at the Showgrounds on Friday, May 11, which is the second anniversary of Dean’s death.

Mr McCroary wants to bring together Dean’s family and friends to do something that he would have enjoyed, at the same time raising awareness of suicide.

The tournament is open for teams of all ages and abilities and is sure to be a great evening of fun and Dean is hoping that budding football teams in the borough will come out and support the cause.

Entry fee is just £25 per team and all money raised will go to FASA (Forum for Action Suicide Awareness) while all other donations will be accepted kindly.

Mr McCroary aims to hold it every year around this date, he said: “We are working with Dean’s family to bring together his family and friends to remember him with this event. Dean loved his football and this is the perfect way to honour his memory.

“It is a cross community event and I want to bring Dean’s friends and family together to do something that he would have enjoyed most.”

For just £25 you can have the chance to get your hands on the Dean Johnston Memorial shield which is sure to become a coveted prize in the years to come. All teams must be entered by May 3, to enter your team contact Dean McCroary via email [email protected].

Dean’s family would like to say a big thank you to everyone for their support over the last two years and hope to see you all at Dean’s memorial on the May 11.