Renfrewshire rivals Glenvale and Johnstone Burgh are teaming up to raise cash in memory of a huge supporter of both clubs.
The pair are co-hosting the inaugural John Grant Tournament this weekend at Keanie Park in tribute to the Paisley businessman who generously sponsored both teams.
Kicking off tonight, Johnstone Burgh’s under-20’s will take on St Anthony’s under-20’s.
On Saturday Burgh will face off against Glenvale for the very first time, with guests Largs Thistle taking on Maryhill in the other semi-final.
The winners will play in Sunday’s final, with the defeated teams playing for third place that morning.
Glenvale boss John Kelly is looking forward to the clashes, with all proceeds from donated entries going to mental health charity CAMHS.
Kelly told Express Sport: “John was a very big supporter of Glenvale and his wife Anne still is.
“His boys Euan and James played for Glenvale too, while he also sponsored Johnstone Burgh as well.
“We wanted to celebrate his commitment to both clubs so we thought this competition would be a really fitting way to do so.
“We’ve rebranded our academy the John W Grant Academy as well in honour of his brilliant support.
“We’re going to make it an annual event and we’re really looking forward to it this weekend.
“The money is going to a great cause and hopefully plenty of people will come along and support us.
“It’s a big test for us playing Burgh.
“They’re a very good side, but we’ll be up for it and the boys will be giving it their all I’m sure.”
There’s family pride at stake tomorrow as well, with Burgh boss Jamie McKim’s brother Lewis currently playing for Glenvale.
The Johnstone manager admits he’s desperate to avoid his brother getting the bragging rights, but insists remembering John Grant and building up his players’ fitness are the key targets for this weekend’s tournament.
McKim said: “We can’t wait to get going this weekend.
“It’s a very special weekend for both clubs because John meant a lot to both clubs.
“When I started out coaching with Glenvale his son James was playing with the team.
“John really looked after us and he was just a great guy too.
“This weekend is to try and recognise his contribution to both teams and hopefully there’ll be some great
games.
“My brother captains Glenvale, so there’s been a hell of a lot of banter going back and forward.
“If they beat us, I know I’ll never hear the end of it!
“We’ve had 11 training sessions already now, so we’re really in need of games.
“We couldn’t be any more ready physically.
“We can’t wait to get back on the pitch and this will be a greating point for our season.”
The Under-20’s clash between Johnstone Burgh and St Anthony’s kicks off at 7.30pm this evening.
On Saturday Largs Thistle take on Maryhill at 10.45am, before Johnstone Burgh take on Glenvale at 2.30pm.
The third place play-off is scheduled for 10.45am on Sunday, with the final kicking off at 2.30pm.
