Day:223, Words:223

It was an early start for many Øksfjordian families making their way to Alta for the annual three day football tournament. The event is massive, with over 370 teams competing in over 950 games. The competitors ranged from some experienced campaigners to those pulling on the boots for the first time.

The Øksfjord community was split into two areas about 300 metres apart. The caravan village set up on an area of private land, across the road from the main arena. The remainder were crammed into classrooms and the gymnasium at the nearby pimary school. Those who had slept in the gym previously, cleverly arrived early, positioning themslves in the prime locations such as the corners, or next to climbing ladders that doubled as drying racks for soggy, sweaty football gear.

The weather gods turned 180 degrees and served up a warm, or dare I say it, even hot afternoon. Despite the lack of recent t-shirt opportunities, there were whispering complaints that the sudden heat was too much for the footballing kiddies.

In between downing cold drinks and the consumption of ice cream, popcorn and fairy floss, there was some football being played. The youngest teams provided a show of random tumbling feet and balls, with the occassional accidental goal. The older groups showed glimpses of superb team play and star individual feats.

 

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