The MSC Cup is making a much-anticipated return to the iconic Stamford Bridge stadium this coming May.
This event combines a love for football with philanthropy, aiming to raise substantial funds for Reuben’s Retreat.
The Event’s Return and Purpose
After a brief hiatus, the MSC Cup is set to grace the renowned Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge stadium once again this year. Scheduled for May 22, 2024, the event will host a competitive seven-a-side football tournament. The event promises to not only provide thrilling football action but also aims to raise significant funds for the charity Reuben’s Retreat.
MSC Cruises plays a pivotal role as the organiser through its sponsorship with the distinguished west London club. With ten teams participating, anticipation and excitement are palpable. Antonio Paradiso, the vice-president of international sales for MSC Group’s cruise division, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating it as a celebration of charity and camaraderie.”
Team Participation and Entry Details
Teams participating in the MSC Cup 2024 will comprise 10 players each, with a mandatory inclusion of at least two female competitors. The entry fee for each team stands at a minimum of £3,000, with all proceeds going directly to support Reuben’s Retreat.
Participants are not just limited to players. Teams can purchase up to ten spectator tickets, priced from £23 per person. This opportunity is designed to engage wider audiences and garner more support for the charitable cause.
Reuben’s Retreat: The Beneficiary
Reuben’s Retreat is a charity based in Derbyshire, dedicated to aiding families facing the distress of life-limiting or life-threatening illnesses in children. The retreat also supports those who have experienced the bereavement of a child. It offers a serene countryside setting for families seeking solace through various services.
Counselling, support groups, and therapeutic activities form the core of the retreat’s offerings. The mission of Reuben’s Retreat is to provide a haven of hope and strength, ensuring families are not alone in their journey.
Nicola Graham, the founder, expressed her gratitude, acknowledging MSC’s sustained support and describing the return of the cup as a testament to the travel industry’s camaraderie. The funds raised will significantly aid the ongoing and new initiatives of the retreat.
A Historic Recap and Expectations
The inaugural MSC Cup was held in 2019 and managed to raise over £25,000 for Reuben’s Retreat—a milestone in the charity’s history. This year, with greater participation anticipated, the aim is to surpass previous achievements.
Stu Parish, UK chief executive of the event partner, remarked on the previous success, describing it as a ‘brilliant day out’. He emphasised the importance of reigniting this event as a longstanding tradition of support and competition within the travel industry.
Details for Aspiring Participants
The tournament is scheduled from 2 pm to 5 pm on the specified date. While teams are encouraged to demonstrate their competitive spirit, the primary goal remains charitable fundraising.
With limited spots available, teams are urged to register promptly to secure their place. Payments must be settled within a week of confirmation to finalise participation.
Opportunities Beyond Football
The MSC Cup isn’t solely about football. It opens new avenues for networking and collaboration within the travel industry. Events like these showcase the collective might of the industry in achieving social good.
Aside from providing a stage for corporate social responsibility, the tournament accentuates the power of community and the impact of joint efforts in altruistic endeavours. In this sense, it serves as a model for future events aiming at blending sports, networking, and charity.
In summary, the return of the MSC Cup to Stamford Bridge symbolizes more than just a football tournament. It represents an opportunity for the travel industry to unite, collaborate, and contribute to a meaningful cause. As anticipation builds, the event is set to blend competition with charity, reinforcing the spirit of solidarity and support.
Ultimately, the MSC Cup exemplifies the profound impact of sportsmanship and generosity. The spirit of competition intertwined with charity work marks this as a highly anticipated event of the year.
