PHOTO: ALS Québec
In association with Soccer Pointe-Claire, The Coach Phil Foundation is hosting an inaugural, special fundraising tournament in support of the ALS Society of Quebec. The funds raised will support patients and fund research into new treatments for the devastating condition commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
Founded by Pointe-Claire resident Phil Lalonde, the tournament will be a yearly event on local soccer calendars where friends, participants, and supporters can join together to kick away Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
The tournament will take place at Terra-Cotta Park in Pointe-Claire (100 Terra-Cotta Ave, Pointe-Claire, Quebec H9R 5A4) on June 18-19 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. with 13 participating Pointe-Claire senior recreational teams aged 18 and up. An opening ceremony for the tournament will take place on Saturday, June 18, around 9:45 a.m., when the competitions begin.
Players and supporters can enjoy the games and a picnic table area for lunch with on-site food trucks from Wild Willy's and Birdhouse Wingerie & Bar. There will also be a raffle with some exciting prizes.
"We're going to have a lot of fun as we do what we can to fundraise for those who are faced with ALS," said Lalonde. "I've been coaching soccer for more than 30 years and this tournament is my way to raise awareness and funds for this important cause," he added.
It's a challenge that is not only important on every level to Lalonde, it's also personal. He was diagnosed with the disease in September.
"I believe in keeping a positive attitude no matter what. ALS challenges that every day, but so far, with the help of the ALS society and my army of family and friends, I'm staying true to myself," Lalonde declared.
As he is known on social media, Coach Phil began the "Kick ALS" campaign challenge. The campaign has already raised more than $20,000 and has a target amount of $50,000. You can donate or take part in accepting Coach Phil's challenge by recording your soccer skills. Details for the challenge and donations can be found on the Coach Phil Senior Soccer Tournament to kick ALS Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Coach-Phil-Senior-Soccer-Tournament-to-kick-ALS-113289898047163/).
"Soccer Pointe-Claire is honoured to partner with Phil, a long-standing coach as well as a former President, as he continues to pursue his passion for soccer in an exciting new way. It is our pleasure and honour to support him and his team of volunteers. As we draw nearer to kick-off, the members and community support surrounding him have been truly uplifting. On a personal note, I am proud and excited to play for such an amazing cause as we team together to fight ALS," said Jonathan Markiewicz, the President of Soccer Pointe-Claire.
Lalonde is optimistic and determined to use his experience as a coach to make a difference for those living with ALS: "As a veteran soccer coach, I've seen first-hand how teams succeed when they support each other. It's incredible what we can accomplish when we work together."
To donate to Coach Phil's fundraiser, visit https://bit.ly/3qO1gcQ
