Thursday, June 06, 2013
sun is shining
I walked past Max's house (Seamus and Victoria's house) today and the sun was beaming and the beautiful stone in the window was glowing and looked absolutely beautiful.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Max O'Connell Cup in the news
This is in today's Camden New Journal. The journalist is a friend of Isaac Warshal's and plays footie and had heard of Max's tournament over the years. This year he came along and spoke to us and took some pics.
Monday, August 13, 2012
A Long Time Coming
The 7th Max O'Connell cup took place on Saturday, August 11, 2012. It was the culminating event of an action packed, inspiring summer of sport that started with the Euros, was quickly followed by a fantastic London Olympics and fittingly rounded off with the biggest one of all - Max's tournament.
Although it was a slightly smaller event than the last two years, with 8 teams competing, it was as always a great day enjoyed by many. Babies and young kids were running around and being spoiled, the parents put on a spread of food and drink that was devoured and the football was once again top class.
The familiar teams were all there in one form or another. South Kilburn, Queens Park, Dave Ferguson's All Stars, Pele Pele, Jamie Shamas, Newcastle and the Hampstead Younger Older boys (Team GB) all represented. A new look West Hampstead were even there, missing the formidable Nelson brothers, but captained by Daniel Blenman, who as always, put up a serious challenge.
Once underway, the group stages flowed like clock work. Queens Park needed a win in their final game to secure qualification and, through goal difference, managed to top the group ahead of South Kilburn. It was more dramatic in the other group with Jamie Shamas going out on goal difference after losing their final game to Daniel Blenman. One man's victory is another man's heartbreak and so it proved.
Topping the group meant a first meeting between Dave Stars and Queens Park. Dave Stars, always dangerous with David Ferguson's trickery and trusty left foot didn't have quite enough left in the tank and a solid Queens Park display, led by two goal hero Dash Lilley, eased them into their first final in five years, 4-0.
The second semi, between South Kilburn and Daniel B was as tight as they come. 1-1 after normal time, someone needed to step up and be a hero. Daniel B was that man scoring in the first half of extra time to take them into the final.
As the sun shone down once again, the finalists took their places in the cage. Both teams were feeling the heat and the exertions of the previous 4 games but it was Queens Park that settled into a rhythm first and looked to be in control. Daniel B's team, with the human brick wall that is Vidal at the back were proving difficult to break down, but eventually they succumbed to the pressure. Hassling by Isaac near the area caused the ball to rebound off the back board to the edge of the area where Tom Quested was waiting, ready to stab the ball into the back of the net to make it 1-0.
Daniel B's team responded quickly, robbing the ball in the middle of the park, sauntering forward and unleashing a shot that was too much to stop. 1-1.
Extra time beckoned and no one could make the breakthrough. It was penalties.
Louis stepped up to take the first. It was struck cleanly, but the keeper made the save. But Queens Park had a secret weapon. Dave Mooney, making his debut in goal, is an imposing figure to say the least. He made him self big and that was enough to put Jed off and save his penalty. Still 0-0. Now it was Dash's turn. He set the ball, picked his spot and unleashed a solid, well placed shot to the left of the keeper who had no chance.
Could Daniel B's men equalise? Not with Mooney in goal. His second penalty save of the day meant that Theo was stepping up to take the winning penalty that would etch Queens Park's name on the trophy for the very first time. His pre-pen nerves proved to be nothing more than modesty as he lashed the ball into the top left hand corner. Queens Park had won. He was mobbed. Celebrations began.
A tangible sense of relief filtered through the players, friends and family. Dave Ferguson, gracious in defeat, sporting his 7th t-shirt paying homage to Max aka Ducky, gave a touching speech and handed over the trophy.
It was, once again, a brilliant day and a fitting tribute to Max. As Jamie Robertson said, if Max had been here we may have won the trophy earlier. As it is, we congregate, from all lover North London, with an amazing spirit, to remember Max and the things he loved.
This one was for you Max. We finally did it. See you all next year.
xXx
Winners: Queens Park
Runners Up: Daniel B
Max of the Day: Dash Lilley
Top Scorers: Dash Lilley, Scott Nelmes (5)
.JPG)
.jpg)
Although it was a slightly smaller event than the last two years, with 8 teams competing, it was as always a great day enjoyed by many. Babies and young kids were running around and being spoiled, the parents put on a spread of food and drink that was devoured and the football was once again top class.
The familiar teams were all there in one form or another. South Kilburn, Queens Park, Dave Ferguson's All Stars, Pele Pele, Jamie Shamas, Newcastle and the Hampstead Younger Older boys (Team GB) all represented. A new look West Hampstead were even there, missing the formidable Nelson brothers, but captained by Daniel Blenman, who as always, put up a serious challenge.
Once underway, the group stages flowed like clock work. Queens Park needed a win in their final game to secure qualification and, through goal difference, managed to top the group ahead of South Kilburn. It was more dramatic in the other group with Jamie Shamas going out on goal difference after losing their final game to Daniel Blenman. One man's victory is another man's heartbreak and so it proved.
Topping the group meant a first meeting between Dave Stars and Queens Park. Dave Stars, always dangerous with David Ferguson's trickery and trusty left foot didn't have quite enough left in the tank and a solid Queens Park display, led by two goal hero Dash Lilley, eased them into their first final in five years, 4-0.
The second semi, between South Kilburn and Daniel B was as tight as they come. 1-1 after normal time, someone needed to step up and be a hero. Daniel B was that man scoring in the first half of extra time to take them into the final.
As the sun shone down once again, the finalists took their places in the cage. Both teams were feeling the heat and the exertions of the previous 4 games but it was Queens Park that settled into a rhythm first and looked to be in control. Daniel B's team, with the human brick wall that is Vidal at the back were proving difficult to break down, but eventually they succumbed to the pressure. Hassling by Isaac near the area caused the ball to rebound off the back board to the edge of the area where Tom Quested was waiting, ready to stab the ball into the back of the net to make it 1-0.
Daniel B's team responded quickly, robbing the ball in the middle of the park, sauntering forward and unleashing a shot that was too much to stop. 1-1.
Extra time beckoned and no one could make the breakthrough. It was penalties.
Louis stepped up to take the first. It was struck cleanly, but the keeper made the save. But Queens Park had a secret weapon. Dave Mooney, making his debut in goal, is an imposing figure to say the least. He made him self big and that was enough to put Jed off and save his penalty. Still 0-0. Now it was Dash's turn. He set the ball, picked his spot and unleashed a solid, well placed shot to the left of the keeper who had no chance.
Could Daniel B's men equalise? Not with Mooney in goal. His second penalty save of the day meant that Theo was stepping up to take the winning penalty that would etch Queens Park's name on the trophy for the very first time. His pre-pen nerves proved to be nothing more than modesty as he lashed the ball into the top left hand corner. Queens Park had won. He was mobbed. Celebrations began.
A tangible sense of relief filtered through the players, friends and family. Dave Ferguson, gracious in defeat, sporting his 7th t-shirt paying homage to Max aka Ducky, gave a touching speech and handed over the trophy.
It was, once again, a brilliant day and a fitting tribute to Max. As Jamie Robertson said, if Max had been here we may have won the trophy earlier. As it is, we congregate, from all lover North London, with an amazing spirit, to remember Max and the things he loved.
This one was for you Max. We finally did it. See you all next year.
xXx
Winners: Queens Park
Runners Up: Daniel B
Max of the Day: Dash Lilley
Top Scorers: Dash Lilley, Scott Nelmes (5)
.JPG)
.jpg)
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
camden new journal
Hi,
My name is Tom Foot, I am the deputy editor of the Camden New Journal
newspaper.
I don't think we've met and I did not know Max. But I feel like I do
to some extent because i have for my whole life being playing
football around the area and still do today.
I grew up in West Hampstead.
Perhaps you know Luka or Rhys, or Niall or Isaac – who I've known
since school. I'm not sure.
On Saturday, the people I play five a side with were talking about
what a brilliant player Max and the cup as they do every year and I
thought I wanted to do a piece on it this year.
"If he was on your side he made the difference", one guy said to me.
I think Max went to Hampstead School which is in our area.
The main thing I was thinking about this week is how so many people
I've grown up with really look forward to playing football on the
weekends more than anything else.
Perhaps they don't see or speak to the people they went to school
with at all in the week.
It is quite unique really and important, the way it keeps people
together, in my opinion.
Anyway, maybe someone could give me a call about it – I'd like to
tell the story of the Max O'Connell Cup in the New Journal and come
down and take some pics on the day.
Cheers
Tom
020 7424 3252
07966102180
My name is Tom Foot, I am the deputy editor of the Camden New Journal
newspaper.
I don't think we've met and I did not know Max. But I feel like I do
to some extent because i have for my whole life being playing
football around the area and still do today.
I grew up in West Hampstead.
Perhaps you know Luka or Rhys, or Niall or Isaac – who I've known
since school. I'm not sure.
On Saturday, the people I play five a side with were talking about
what a brilliant player Max and the cup as they do every year and I
thought I wanted to do a piece on it this year.
"If he was on your side he made the difference", one guy said to me.
I think Max went to Hampstead School which is in our area.
The main thing I was thinking about this week is how so many people
I've grown up with really look forward to playing football on the
weekends more than anything else.
Perhaps they don't see or speak to the people they went to school
with at all in the week.
It is quite unique really and important, the way it keeps people
together, in my opinion.
Anyway, maybe someone could give me a call about it – I'd like to
tell the story of the Max O'Connell Cup in the New Journal and come
down and take some pics on the day.
Cheers
Tom
020 7424 3252
07966102180
Friday, April 20, 2012
max - the latest
Hi All,
Meeting up with an old friend yesterday after probably about 5 years, we connected massively over Max; so I thought you would appreciate hearing how inspirational Max still is.
This friend told me how he had some dreams with Max in them. One of which Max was teaching him how to swim faster and stronger. I thought this beautifully summed up just how inspiring Max actually was.
In our big school no one actually did what Max did. He managed to connect with so many people on so many different levels. I always felt that I could tell Max anything and I knew that I could trust him with it without any fear of judging. This is a rare gem of a quality in this day and age.
He really wore his heart on his sleeve. There was no one quite like him. No one that was so open, so light and so beautiful. His honesty crossed all boundaries that often separate us as human beings. The only way I can sum up Max now, is to think that he must of been a modern day Angel in disguise. In that subtle Angelic form he is clearly still working his magic! Again and again I just thank my lucky stars that I was so blessed to of had him in my life.
Love Marina
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Wishes
Victoria and Seamus,
I just wanted to thank you for a wonderful evening on Sunday. It was a really special one this year and I'm missing Max terribly.
He has been with me strongly over the past weeks in the lead up to some big changes in my life that should mean great things. He would always have been there to remind me not to be cocky, but don't sacrifice any of my energy of fearlessness, and keep pushing.
If you want to add this to the blog i'd be ok with that but it was more of a message I wanted to send to you.
You have shown unbelievable spirit and devotion to your everyone in repeating these hard occasions. I know its probably a warming feeling to know that we all want to share these times with you so desperately, but the strength you have shown over the years is truly and inspiration and something I have come to rely on. I feel safe in your home and honoured to be part of the gatherings. Although you (both) and I never really had a relationship while Max was with us, I hope you realise that distance is testament to our friendship, which was one of true adolescent mischief and tom-foolery. It was all about absolute fun. It was all about love.
Someone told me before they passed away two years ago (another friend), that in true times of reflection and adversity, to turn to those around you is the hardest but yet most rewarding thing one can do, rather than looking to one's self for the solution. I still turn to Max for things, and I know his/our crew in the area will always be there for me. You have helped keep that together, and you have created a glue that continues to bond us. Its so important.
We are entering an age where our connections to each other are more powerful and important than ever, and strength alone cannot support us. I want you to know that I am here absolutely for you and your family should you ever wish or need me around, and thank you for helping me deal with the loss of such a great friend.
I cannot believe it has been 6 years. He still has more of an impact and heart warming influence on me than most people will ever be capable.
With all my love.
Jacob.
_________________________________
Jacob Tomkins
Jacob Tomkins
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
The 6th Max O'Connell Cup - 4 June 2011
Hi All,
Just a few days to go now until 4 June 2011 and the 6th Max O'Connell Cup. I can't quite believe we are hosting the 6th tournament in memory of Max and that it is getting stronger and better each year.
And this year should be no exception. The draw of the 16 teams has been made and is below. After last year's historic victory by South Kilburn over 4 times reigning champs West Hampstead anyone now believes they can win it.
The biggest new addition to this year's MOCC is the introduction of independent referees. We will of course also have food and drinks on hand and also prizes for Max of the day, top scorer and of course the winners.
It also looks like it's going to be another fantastic day for weather so come prepared with lots of water.
Look forward to seeing you all there! May the best team win!
The Boys
---------------
Just a few days to go now until 4 June 2011 and the 6th Max O'Connell Cup. I can't quite believe we are hosting the 6th tournament in memory of Max and that it is getting stronger and better each year.
And this year should be no exception. The draw of the 16 teams has been made and is below. After last year's historic victory by South Kilburn over 4 times reigning champs West Hampstead anyone now believes they can win it.
The biggest new addition to this year's MOCC is the introduction of independent referees. We will of course also have food and drinks on hand and also prizes for Max of the day, top scorer and of course the winners.
It also looks like it's going to be another fantastic day for weather so come prepared with lots of water.
Look forward to seeing you all there! May the best team win!
The Boys
---------------
The Draw - Max O'Connell Cup, 4 June 2011
GROUP A
South Kilburn
Pele Pele
Kilburn
West Kilburn Park Rangers
GROUP B
Queens Park
Harlesden
Hampstead Veterans
Camden Town
GROUP C
ANP Team Advance
Newcastle
Roy's Uffs
Westside Glory
GROUP D
West Hampstead
North West All Stars
Kronenbourg 1664
Real Cricklewood FC
Wednesday, October 06, 2010
The Max O'Connell Cup 2010
'The Max O'Connell Cup 2010' premiered at the Corrib Rest in North West London on Monday 4th October. The celebrity audience included many of the footballers who took part in the event. The film was unexpectedly controversial, raising the question of whether sabotage by the Queen's Park Mums played a part in the final result. What do you think?
Peter Cutts
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-7CDlYqCGg
Peter Cutts
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-7CDlYqCGg
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
A little tribute to a huge legend
Hi,
It was quite an emotional day going from bar to bar trying to find someone who would remember him.
Just as I gave up, the manager called Nin from the Smile Bungalows recognized him from I picture I had with me. I knew I would find someone! It's hard to forget someone so magnetic and special as Max.
It was amazing to talk to this guy and hear some new stories I hadn't before.
While I was there I wanted to do something that would leave a piece of him forever so I found a rock on the left hand side of the beach and wrote a little something down.
I've attached a picture to this email, but in case it can't be seen well here is what I wrote.
'Max O' Connell
Like a pure magnet of energy we were drawn to him.
No words can sum up this angel that blessed us.
He changed us forever.
Thanks for coming into our lives.
Your spirit will stay with us forever.
Max loved Bottle beach and now I know why.
A piece of him lives on here forever.
Love you with all my heart Amigo.
RIP
I'll see you again some day.
Miss you
Marina'
First picture if of Nin ( the manager ) and me
Second is of the rock
Third is the view from the rock
Fourth is Smile Bungalows where Max stayed while he was there
Friday, May 21, 2010
... and the fixtures ... again
In Louis's earlier post the referee column got chopped off at the side. I tried to sort it out. I've got all the text to show but I can't get it into columns. Anyway, see you all tomorrow, Seamus
Group A
Jet Set NW10 vs. TranzBallerZ
Ref Cupid Stunts FC
Cupid Stunts FC vs. Dazzle Dogs
Ref JCB
JCB vs. Jet Set NW10
Ref TranzBallerZ
TranzBallerZ vs. Cupid Stunts FC
Ref Dazzle Dogs
Dazzle Dogs vs. JCB
Ref Jet Set NW10
Jet Set NW10 vs. Cupid Stunts FC
Ref JCB
TranzBallerZ vs. Dazzle Dogs
Ref Cupid Stunts FC
Cupid Stunts FC vs. JCB
Ref Dazzle Dogs
Jet Set NW10 vs. Dazzle Dogs
Ref TranzBallerZ
JCB vs. TranzBallerZ
Ref Jet Set NW10
Group B
Queens Park vs. South Kilburn
Ref NW2 United
NW2 United vs. Men Behaving Badly
Ref The People's Champions
The People's Champions vs. Queens Park
Ref South Kilburn
South Kilburn vs. NW2 United
Ref Men Behaving Badly
Men Behaving Badly vs. The People's Champions
Ref Queens Park
Queens Park vs. NW2 United
Ref The People's Champions
South Kilburn vs. Men Behaving Badly
Ref NW2 United
NW2 United vs. The People's Champions
Ref Men Behaving Badly
Queens Park vs. Men Behaving Badly
Ref South Kilburn
The People's Champions vs. South Kilburn
Ref Queens Park
Group C
Old Boys vs. West Hampstead
Ref Kilburn Grange FC
Kilburn Grange FC vs. Roy's Uffs
Ref Eximius FC
Eximius FC vs. Old Boys
Ref West Hampstead
West Hampstead vs. Kilburn Grange FC
Ref Roy's Uffs
Roy's Uffs vs. Eximius FC
Ref Old Boys
Old Boys vs. Kilburn Grange FC
Ref Eximius FC
West Hampstead vs. Roy's Uffs
Ref Kilburn Grange FC
Kilburn Grange FC vs. Eximius FC
Ref Roy's Uffs
Old Boys vs. Roy's Uffs
Ref West Hampstead
Eximius FC vs. West Hampstead
Ref Old Boys
Group D
ANP United vs. Geordie Southerners FC
Ref Ruislip
Ruislip vs. Cricklewood FC
Ref Kronenbourg 1664
Kronenbourg 1664 vs. ANP United
Ref Geordie Southerners FC
Geordie Southerners FC vs. Ruislip
Ref Cricklewood FC
Cricklewood FC vs. Kronenbourg 1664
Ref ANP United
ANP United vs. Ruislip
Ref Kronenbourg 1664
Geordie Southerners FC vs. Cricklewood FC
Ref Ruislip
Ruislip vs. Kronenbourg 1664
Ref Cricklewood FC
ANP United vs. Cricklewood FC
Ref Geordie Southerners FC
Kronenbourg 1664 vs. Geordie Southerners FC
Ref ANP United
Group A
Jet Set NW10 vs. TranzBallerZ
Ref Cupid Stunts FC
Cupid Stunts FC vs. Dazzle Dogs
Ref JCB
JCB vs. Jet Set NW10
Ref TranzBallerZ
TranzBallerZ vs. Cupid Stunts FC
Ref Dazzle Dogs
Dazzle Dogs vs. JCB
Ref Jet Set NW10
Jet Set NW10 vs. Cupid Stunts FC
Ref JCB
TranzBallerZ vs. Dazzle Dogs
Ref Cupid Stunts FC
Cupid Stunts FC vs. JCB
Ref Dazzle Dogs
Jet Set NW10 vs. Dazzle Dogs
Ref TranzBallerZ
JCB vs. TranzBallerZ
Ref Jet Set NW10
Group B
Queens Park vs. South Kilburn
Ref NW2 United
NW2 United vs. Men Behaving Badly
Ref The People's Champions
The People's Champions vs. Queens Park
Ref South Kilburn
South Kilburn vs. NW2 United
Ref Men Behaving Badly
Men Behaving Badly vs. The People's Champions
Ref Queens Park
Queens Park vs. NW2 United
Ref The People's Champions
South Kilburn vs. Men Behaving Badly
Ref NW2 United
NW2 United vs. The People's Champions
Ref Men Behaving Badly
Queens Park vs. Men Behaving Badly
Ref South Kilburn
The People's Champions vs. South Kilburn
Ref Queens Park
Group C
Old Boys vs. West Hampstead
Ref Kilburn Grange FC
Kilburn Grange FC vs. Roy's Uffs
Ref Eximius FC
Eximius FC vs. Old Boys
Ref West Hampstead
West Hampstead vs. Kilburn Grange FC
Ref Roy's Uffs
Roy's Uffs vs. Eximius FC
Ref Old Boys
Old Boys vs. Kilburn Grange FC
Ref Eximius FC
West Hampstead vs. Roy's Uffs
Ref Kilburn Grange FC
Kilburn Grange FC vs. Eximius FC
Ref Roy's Uffs
Old Boys vs. Roy's Uffs
Ref West Hampstead
Eximius FC vs. West Hampstead
Ref Old Boys
Group D
ANP United vs. Geordie Southerners FC
Ref Ruislip
Ruislip vs. Cricklewood FC
Ref Kronenbourg 1664
Kronenbourg 1664 vs. ANP United
Ref Geordie Southerners FC
Geordie Southerners FC vs. Ruislip
Ref Cricklewood FC
Cricklewood FC vs. Kronenbourg 1664
Ref ANP United
ANP United vs. Ruislip
Ref Kronenbourg 1664
Geordie Southerners FC vs. Cricklewood FC
Ref Ruislip
Ruislip vs. Kronenbourg 1664
Ref Cricklewood FC
ANP United vs. Cricklewood FC
Ref Geordie Southerners FC
Kronenbourg 1664 vs. Geordie Southerners FC
Ref ANP United
Max
Just remembering a Great dude with the biggest smile and crazy rubber leg footy skills. Hope Crouchy and the boys do you proud this summer in S.A.
Big Love
Jayla
Big Love
Jayla
Thursday, May 20, 2010
...and the fixtures...
| Group A | Ref. | ||
| Jet Set NW10 | vs. | TranzBallerZ | Cupid Stunts FC |
| Cupid Stunts FC | vs. | Dazzle Dogs | JCB |
| JCB | vs. | Jet Set NW10 | TranzBallerZ |
| TranzBallerZ | vs. | Cupid Stunts FC | Dazzle Dogs |
| Dazzle Dogs | vs. | JCB | Jet Set NW10 |
| Jet Set NW10 | vs. | Cupid Stunts FC | JCB |
| TranzBallerZ | vs. | Dazzle Dogs | Cupid Stunts FC |
| Cupid Stunts FC | vs. | JCB | Dazzle Dogs |
| Jet Set NW10 | vs. | Dazzle Dogs | TranzBallerZ |
| JCB | vs. | TranzBallerZ | Jet Set NW10 |
| Group B | |||
| Queens Park | vs. | South Kilburn | NW2 United |
| NW2 United | vs. | Men Behaving Badly | The People's Champions |
| The People's Champions | vs. | Queens Park | South Kilburn |
| South Kilburn | vs. | NW2 United | Men Behaving Badly |
| Men Behaving Badly | vs. | The People's Champions | Queens Park |
| Queens Park | vs. | NW2 United | The People's Champions |
| South Kilburn | vs. | Men Behaving Badly | NW2 United |
| NW2 United | vs. | The People's Champions | Men Behaving Badly |
| Queens Park | vs. | Men Behaving Badly | South Kilburn |
| The People's Champions | vs. | South Kilburn | Queens Park |
| Group C | |||
| Old Boys | vs. | West Hampstead | Kilburn Grange FC |
| Kilburn Grange FC | vs. | Roy's Uffs | Eximius FC |
| Eximius FC | vs. | Old Boys | West Hampstead |
| West Hampstead | vs. | Kilburn Grange FC | Roy's Uffs |
| Roy's Uffs | vs. | Eximius FC | Old Boys |
| Old Boys | vs. | Kilburn Grange FC | Eximius FC |
| West Hampstead | vs. | Roy's Uffs | Kilburn Grange FC |
| Kilburn Grange FC | vs. | Eximius FC | Roy's Uffs |
| Old Boys | vs. | Roy's Uffs | West Hampstead |
| Eximius FC | vs. | West Hampstead | Old Boys |
Group D | |||
| ANP United | vs. | Geordie Southerners FC | Ruislip |
| Ruislip | vs. | Cricklewood FC | Kronenbourg 1664 |
| Kronenbourg 1664 | vs. | ANP United | Geordie Southerners FC |
| Geordie Southerners FC | vs. | Ruislip | Cricklewood FC |
| Cricklewood FC | vs. | Kronenbourg 1664 | ANP United |
| ANP United | vs. | Ruislip | Kronenbourg 1664 |
| Geordie Southerners FC | vs. | Cricklewood FC | Ruislip |
| Ruislip | vs. | Kronenbourg 1664 | Cricklewood FC |
| ANP United | vs. | Cricklewood FC | Geordie Southerners FC |
| Kronenbourg 1664 | vs. | Geordie Southerners FC | ANP United |
The Max O'Connell Cup 2010
These are the groups for the 2010 Max O'Connell Cup. It's the biggest turn out we've had so far - 20 teams - so make sure you are there at 11.00 to register, meet and greet everyone ready to KO your first game at 12.00. The place closes at 6.00 and the Champions League final is shortly after so please come early to leave on time.
It's supposed to be another hot day so make sure you're prepared!
As usual there will be some food and drinks and everyone is welcome so invite friends and family as we remember Max and play some good football.
There are also a few more prizes this year for the Winners, the Max of the Day and the top goal scorer.
So bring your "A" game...See you there!
Teams
1. Queens Park (Us)
2. West Hampstead (Leon)
3. Old Boys (Robbo)
4. TranzBallerZ (David Ferguson)
5. South Kilburn (Scott Nelmes)
6. Jet Set NW10 (Sam and Natty)
7. Geordie Southerners FC (James, Eddie and Ku)
8. ANP United (Little Chin)
9. NW2 United (Mal and Niall)
10. Cupid Stunts FC (John McCormack)
11. JCB (JC and Blake)
12. Cricklewood FC (Nicky Kemp)
13. Men Behaving Badly (Dom and Jamie)
14. Eximius FC (James Mates)
15. The People's Champions (Joe Joyce)
16. Ruislip (Nick and Justin)
17. Dazzle Dogs (Rob)
18. Kronenbourg 1664 (John and Ritchie)
19. Roy's Uffs (Reedie)
20. Kilburn Grange FC (Twin)
Rules
Can't pass straight back to goalie
Goalie can't come out of area
Only headers and volleys can be scored in the area
No slidetackling
7 mins each way (group games)
8 mins each way (knock out games)
E.T. 4 mins each way
5 x pens each
Top 2 qualify for quarters
Goal Difference-goals scored-head to head-pens
Groups
Group A
-Jet Set NW10
-TranzBallerZ
-Cupid Stunts FC
-Dazzle Dogs
-JCB
Group B
-Queens Park
-South Kilburn
-NW2 United
-Men Behaving Badly
-The People's Champions
Group C
-Old Boys
-West Hampstead
-Kilburn Grange FC
-Roy's Uffs
-Eximius FC
Group D
-ANP United
-Geordie Southerners FC
-Ruislip
-Cricklewood FC
-Kronenbourg 1664
It's supposed to be another hot day so make sure you're prepared!
As usual there will be some food and drinks and everyone is welcome so invite friends and family as we remember Max and play some good football.
There are also a few more prizes this year for the Winners, the Max of the Day and the top goal scorer.
So bring your "A" game...See you there!
Teams
1. Queens Park (Us)
2. West Hampstead (Leon)
3. Old Boys (Robbo)
4. TranzBallerZ (David Ferguson)
5. South Kilburn (Scott Nelmes)
6. Jet Set NW10 (Sam and Natty)
7. Geordie Southerners FC (James, Eddie and Ku)
8. ANP United (Little Chin)
9. NW2 United (Mal and Niall)
10. Cupid Stunts FC (John McCormack)
11. JCB (JC and Blake)
12. Cricklewood FC (Nicky Kemp)
13. Men Behaving Badly (Dom and Jamie)
14. Eximius FC (James Mates)
15. The People's Champions (Joe Joyce)
16. Ruislip (Nick and Justin)
17. Dazzle Dogs (Rob)
18. Kronenbourg 1664 (John and Ritchie)
19. Roy's Uffs (Reedie)
20. Kilburn Grange FC (Twin)
Rules
Can't pass straight back to goalie
Goalie can't come out of area
Only headers and volleys can be scored in the area
No slidetackling
7 mins each way (group games)
8 mins each way (knock out games)
E.T. 4 mins each way
5 x pens each
Top 2 qualify for quarters
Goal Difference-goals scored-head to head-pens
Groups
Group A
-Jet Set NW10
-TranzBallerZ
-Cupid Stunts FC
-Dazzle Dogs
-JCB
Group B
-Queens Park
-South Kilburn
-NW2 United
-Men Behaving Badly
-The People's Champions
Group C
-Old Boys
-West Hampstead
-Kilburn Grange FC
-Roy's Uffs
-Eximius FC
Group D
-ANP United
-Geordie Southerners FC
-Ruislip
-Cricklewood FC
-Kronenbourg 1664
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Friday, April 23, 2010
Max at the Kicks n Flicks Film Festival
Got this from Peter Cutts -
The film 'The Max O'Connell Cup' has been selected to feature at the Kicks n Flicks Film Festival (http://www.kicksnflicks.co.uk/).
It will be screened at the Shortwave Cinema London SE1 3UN (http://www.shortwavefilms.co.uk/) on Friday 7th May at 7.30pm and Saturday 8th May at 2pm as part of the 'Football Shorts' programme.
If you'd like to book tickets, visit www.kicksnflicks.webeden.co.uk
Seamus
The film 'The Max O'Connell Cup' has been selected to feature at the Kicks n Flicks Film Festival (http://www.kicksnflicks.co.uk/).
It will be screened at the Shortwave Cinema London SE1 3UN (http://www.shortwavefilms.co.uk/) on Friday 7th May at 7.30pm and Saturday 8th May at 2pm as part of the 'Football Shorts' programme.
If you'd like to book tickets, visit www.kicksnflicks.webeden.co.uk
Seamus
Monday, April 12, 2010
Dear Max,
I haven't visited your blog for a very long time. It's because I know it will make me sad.
Summer is coming Max. The daffodils are in the Park. Boys are playing football. I cannot see you, but I hope you are around. Somewhere. Everywhere.
Sometimes I feel guilty for getting on with life without you, but I know, I know, you wouldn't want it any other way.
I miss you.
Rosie
I haven't visited your blog for a very long time. It's because I know it will make me sad.
Summer is coming Max. The daffodils are in the Park. Boys are playing football. I cannot see you, but I hope you are around. Somewhere. Everywhere.
Sometimes I feel guilty for getting on with life without you, but I know, I know, you wouldn't want it any other way.
I miss you.
Rosie
Thursday, March 04, 2010
New look to the blog
You will see that the blog has a new look. It should now be easier to browse the posts and find what you want.
Instead of one long window holding all the posts you now have a smaller window holding only some of the posts, with buttons at the bottom to go to older or newer posts. You also have a panel at the side through which you can home in on posts for a specific month.
There's also a Followers panel. I don't really understand that bit.
This change results from Google's introduction of the Layouts system for its blogs. If you know about all this let me know of any thoughts you have for changes or improvements.
Best wishes, Seamus
Friday, February 26, 2010
Hannah
I just wanted to say from all the way up here in Manchester that I have been thinking about lovely Max, Victoria, Seamus, Rachel the boys and all of the other wonderful Queens Park Mums, Dads, sisters, brothers and friends! I miss you all today and I wish I was with you. All my love and hugs! Here is remember someone we will never forget. Max O'connell. Legend!
Hannah Cutts
Hannah Cutts
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Glitch viewing the blog
At the moment you can't see the older posts in the blog. I'm working on it. Seamus
Monday, November 02, 2009
The Max O'Connell Cup 2007
Here's an edited version of a film I made a couple of years ago. When I set out to follow the Queen's Park team at the tournament I had no idea of the drama that would unfold.
Peter Cutts (Owen's Dad)
Peter Cutts (Owen's Dad)
Monday, September 28, 2009
The Max O'Connell Cup 4th July 2009: Results
To paraphrase Leon Nelson, The Max of the Day player of the tournament, we'd all rather not be here, but we are, and it's the most fitting way to remember Max I think there is.
The fourth Max O'Connell Cup was another great occasion for the Max community who came to play or watch football and see old friends.
This year there were a few more babies and a few more new faces in amongst the regulars. The sun again shone down on this bitter-sweet occasion that mark's another years passing without Max.
West Hampstead deservedly won (4th year in a row!), but not before being pushed right to the limit in the thrilling 3-3 semi-final where an own goal helped them come back from 3-1 down in the second half. Once they drew level a single goal in the penalty shoot out was enough to get them to the final: a shoot out noted for containing 5 spectacular saves between the two keepers before the ice-cold winning penalty from Leon.
Queens Park had a shaky group stage and got the better of one penalty shoot out to get to the quarters before luck deserted them and they went out to Scott Nelmes (Salusbury Old Boys) in their second penalty confrontation despite a much improved display.
Scott Nelmes had a fantastic debut tournament making it all the way to the final before the heat and injuries meant they had little left for the final against the fittest team in the tournament. Newcastle finally lived up to their billing as contenders making it the semis before their lack of a single substitute was exposed and fatigue got the better of an otherwise strong outfit.
The groups proved testing and rewarding for the rest of us almost as much as the the cold beers, home cooked pizza and endless supply of fruit. It was a measure of the quality of this tournament that every team except The Brass Nanans got at least one win - The Brass Nanas however can claim for Goal of the Tournament from Callum.
A special thanks to Louis who's organisational skills meant the day ran as smoothly as it did, to the rest of Queens Park for chipping in, to the mums and parents for supplying such stellar catering (especially those cold beers - Max really would be proud of that), to Remel for running the bar, to Dave Ferguson for another T-shirt that doesn't let anyone forget that Max used to be called "Ducky", and to everyone else who came and played and watched and continues to help keep Max's spirit close.
There are a few photos below but if you have any more please post them or check out Facebook - Leon Nelson has a great set of pictures, and captions, that tell the story.
See you next year.
The fourth Max O'Connell Cup was another great occasion for the Max community who came to play or watch football and see old friends.
This year there were a few more babies and a few more new faces in amongst the regulars. The sun again shone down on this bitter-sweet occasion that mark's another years passing without Max.
West Hampstead deservedly won (4th year in a row!), but not before being pushed right to the limit in the thrilling 3-3 semi-final where an own goal helped them come back from 3-1 down in the second half. Once they drew level a single goal in the penalty shoot out was enough to get them to the final: a shoot out noted for containing 5 spectacular saves between the two keepers before the ice-cold winning penalty from Leon.
Queens Park had a shaky group stage and got the better of one penalty shoot out to get to the quarters before luck deserted them and they went out to Scott Nelmes (Salusbury Old Boys) in their second penalty confrontation despite a much improved display.
Scott Nelmes had a fantastic debut tournament making it all the way to the final before the heat and injuries meant they had little left for the final against the fittest team in the tournament. Newcastle finally lived up to their billing as contenders making it the semis before their lack of a single substitute was exposed and fatigue got the better of an otherwise strong outfit.
The groups proved testing and rewarding for the rest of us almost as much as the the cold beers, home cooked pizza and endless supply of fruit. It was a measure of the quality of this tournament that every team except The Brass Nanans got at least one win - The Brass Nanas however can claim for Goal of the Tournament from Callum.
A special thanks to Louis who's organisational skills meant the day ran as smoothly as it did, to the rest of Queens Park for chipping in, to the mums and parents for supplying such stellar catering (especially those cold beers - Max really would be proud of that), to Remel for running the bar, to Dave Ferguson for another T-shirt that doesn't let anyone forget that Max used to be called "Ducky", and to everyone else who came and played and watched and continues to help keep Max's spirit close.
There are a few photos below but if you have any more please post them or check out Facebook - Leon Nelson has a great set of pictures, and captions, that tell the story.
See you next year.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
The Kite
Max was a friend of John and Mary McCormack’s sons, John, Mike, and Jamie. John wrote this poem for Max, and Mary has asked me to post it. It is included in John's selected poems, ‘The Trouble with Creation’, published in 2009.
The Kite (For Max)
A boy is like a kite,
bound yet free
and if the wind holds
there is mastery.
Sometimes it will obey
the tug of will against air,
yet a wayward gust may
take it away
anywhere in this sky.
The clouds can hide so much,
yet somewhere a kite is flying
free and wild as a
reckless friendly child.
John McCormack
2006
The Kite (For Max)
A boy is like a kite,
bound yet free
and if the wind holds
there is mastery.
Sometimes it will obey
the tug of will against air,
yet a wayward gust may
take it away
anywhere in this sky.
The clouds can hide so much,
yet somewhere a kite is flying
free and wild as a
reckless friendly child.
John McCormack
2006
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
The Max O'Connell Cup 4th July 2009
Hello all,
This Saturday is the 4th Max O'Connell Cup at the Linford Christie Stadium. You can see last year's blog lower down the page for directions.
You can check out your groups and who you are playing below! There are 15 teams this year, making it the biggest tournament by far.
Games are kicking off at 12.00 noon so try and get there in good time. It's £40 per team to be collected and sorted by the Captains before kick off so we have a good day of football ahead of us.
For those coming to support and those who make an early exit the parents are again very kindly providing some food and drink (but you can always bring more!)
We'd like to thank everyone in advance for still making the effort and wanting to be involved, it means a lot to us and it's good to see it means the same to so many of you.
The weather is looking good, let's play in the spirit that Max would have wanted and we'll see you there.
Queens Park
-------------------
| Teams | Rules | |||
| 1.Queens Park | Can't pass straight back to goalie | |||
| 2.West Hampstead | Goalie can't come out of area | |||
| 3.Newcastle | No slidetackling | |||
| 4.John McCormack | Only headers and volleys can be scored in the area | |||
| 5.John McKinney | ||||
| 6.Sam Greene | ||||
| 7.Natty | ||||
| 8.Dom/Rob | ||||
| 9.Nile | ||||
| 10.Dave Stars | ||||
| 11.Scott Nelmes | ||||
| 12.Big Chin | ||||
| Groups | ||||
| Group A | Group B | Group C | ||
| West Hampstead | Dave Stars | Scott Nelmes | ||
| Queens Park | Newcastle | John McKinney | ||
| Sam Greene | Dom/Rob | Big Chin | ||
| Nile | Natty | John McCormack | ||
| Group A | Ref. | ||
| West Hampstead | vs. | Queens Park | Sam Greene |
| Sam Greene | vs. | Nile | Queens Park |
| West Hampstead | vs. | Sam Greene | Nile |
| Queens Park | vs. | Nile | West Hampstead |
| West Hampstead | vs. | Nile | Sam Greene |
| Queens Park | vs. | Sam Greene | Nile |
| Group B | Ref. | ||
| Dave Stars | vs. | Newcastle | Dom/Rob |
| Dom/Rob | vs. | Natty | Newcastle |
| Dave Stars | vs. | Dom/Rob | Natty |
| Newcastle | vs. | Natty | Dave Stars |
| Dave Stars | vs. | Natty | Dom/Rob |
| Newcastle | vs. | Dom/Rob | Natty |
| Group C | Ref. | ||
| Scott Nelmes | vs. | John McKinney | Big Chin |
| Big Chin | vs. | John McCormack | John McKinney |
| Scott Nelmes | vs. | Big Chin | John McCormack |
| John McKinney | vs. | John McCormack | Scott Nelmes |
| Scott Nelmes | vs. | John McCormack | Big Chin |
| John McKinney | vs. | Big Chin | John McCormack |
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Poem read for Max on 26 February 2009
We had a gathering of friends and families at our house on the anniversary of Max's death. I read a poem, and I have been asked to put it on the blog.
Rachel had asked us to read this poem. This year she was in New York for the anniversary, continuing with her studies, but she was keen for us to read the poem. It is one she knew Max had liked, from an anthology called Poets of the Nicaraguan Revolution. It contains poems in Spanish with English translations.
I used Max's well-thumbed copy of the book, in which the poem has been annotated by him (and in pen - I used tell him off for that), and I read the English translation.
So here it is - Spanish first, then the English translation.
Seamus
ERNESTO CARDENAL
EN LA TUMBA DEL GUERRILLERO
Pienso en tu cuerpo que se ha ido desbaratando
bajo la tierra
haciéndose suave tierra, humus otra vez
junto con el humus de todos los demás humanos
que han existido y existirán en la bolita mundo
haciéndonos todos juncos tierra fértil del planeta Tierra.
Y cuando los cosmonautas miren esta bola azul y rosa
en la noche negra
lo que estarán mirando, lejos, es tu luminosa tumba
(tu tumba y la de todos)
y cuando los extraterrestres desde alguna parte
miren este punto de luz de la Tierra
estarán mirando tu tumba.
Y un día será todo tumba, silenciosa tumba,
y ya no habrá más seres vivos en el planeta
compañero.
¿Y después?
Después nos desbarataremos más, volaremos,
átomos en el cosmos.
Y tal vez la materia es eterna hermano
sin principio ni fin o tiene un fin
y recomienza cada vez.
Tu amor sí tuvo un comienzo pero no tiene final.
Y tus átomos que estuvieron en el suelo de Nicaragua,
tus átomos amorosos, que dieron la vida por amor,
ya verás, serán luz,
me imagino tus partículas en la vastedad cosmos
como pancartas, como afiches vivos.
No sé si me explico.
Lo que sé es que nunca se olvidará tu nombre
y para siempre se gritará: ¡Presente!
THE GUERRILLA'S TOMB
I think of your body that has been rotting
underground
becoming good earth, humus again
together with the humus of all the other humans
who have existed and will exist in the ball of the earth
all becoming fertile earth of the planet Earth.
And when the cosmonauts look at this blue and pink ball
in the black night
what they will be seeing, far off, is your luminous tomb
(your tomb and everybody's)
and when extraterrestrials from somewhere
see this point of light that is Earth
they will be looking at your tomb.
And one day it will be all tomb, a silent tomb
and there will no longer be living beings on the planet
comrade.
And then?
When we have disintegrated further, we shall fly,
as atoms in the cosmos.
And perhaps matter is eternal brother
without beginning or end or it ends
and keeps beginning again.
Yes, your love did have a beginning but it has no end.
And your atoms which were in the soil of Nicaragua,
your loving atoms, that gave their life for love,
you'll see, they will be light.
I imagine your particles in the vastness of the cosmos
like placards, like living posters.
I don't know if I am explaining myself.
What I do know is that your name
will never be forgotten
and for evermore you will be acclaimed: Presente!
From Poets of the Nicaraguan Revolution
Translated by Dinah Livingstone
Katabasis, 1993
Rachel had asked us to read this poem. This year she was in New York for the anniversary, continuing with her studies, but she was keen for us to read the poem. It is one she knew Max had liked, from an anthology called Poets of the Nicaraguan Revolution. It contains poems in Spanish with English translations.
I used Max's well-thumbed copy of the book, in which the poem has been annotated by him (and in pen - I used tell him off for that), and I read the English translation.
So here it is - Spanish first, then the English translation.
Seamus
ERNESTO CARDENAL
EN LA TUMBA DEL GUERRILLERO
Pienso en tu cuerpo que se ha ido desbaratando
bajo la tierra
haciéndose suave tierra, humus otra vez
junto con el humus de todos los demás humanos
que han existido y existirán en la bolita mundo
haciéndonos todos juncos tierra fértil del planeta Tierra.
Y cuando los cosmonautas miren esta bola azul y rosa
en la noche negra
lo que estarán mirando, lejos, es tu luminosa tumba
(tu tumba y la de todos)
y cuando los extraterrestres desde alguna parte
miren este punto de luz de la Tierra
estarán mirando tu tumba.
Y un día será todo tumba, silenciosa tumba,
y ya no habrá más seres vivos en el planeta
compañero.
¿Y después?
Después nos desbarataremos más, volaremos,
átomos en el cosmos.
Y tal vez la materia es eterna hermano
sin principio ni fin o tiene un fin
y recomienza cada vez.
Tu amor sí tuvo un comienzo pero no tiene final.
Y tus átomos que estuvieron en el suelo de Nicaragua,
tus átomos amorosos, que dieron la vida por amor,
ya verás, serán luz,
me imagino tus partículas en la vastedad cosmos
como pancartas, como afiches vivos.
No sé si me explico.
Lo que sé es que nunca se olvidará tu nombre
y para siempre se gritará: ¡Presente!
THE GUERRILLA'S TOMB
I think of your body that has been rotting
underground
becoming good earth, humus again
together with the humus of all the other humans
who have existed and will exist in the ball of the earth
all becoming fertile earth of the planet Earth.
And when the cosmonauts look at this blue and pink ball
in the black night
what they will be seeing, far off, is your luminous tomb
(your tomb and everybody's)
and when extraterrestrials from somewhere
see this point of light that is Earth
they will be looking at your tomb.
And one day it will be all tomb, a silent tomb
and there will no longer be living beings on the planet
comrade.
And then?
When we have disintegrated further, we shall fly,
as atoms in the cosmos.
And perhaps matter is eternal brother
without beginning or end or it ends
and keeps beginning again.
Yes, your love did have a beginning but it has no end.
And your atoms which were in the soil of Nicaragua,
your loving atoms, that gave their life for love,
you'll see, they will be light.
I imagine your particles in the vastness of the cosmos
like placards, like living posters.
I don't know if I am explaining myself.
What I do know is that your name
will never be forgotten
and for evermore you will be acclaimed: Presente!
From Poets of the Nicaraguan Revolution
Translated by Dinah Livingstone
Katabasis, 1993
Max's second tree
On Wednesday 3 December 2008 we planted a second tree for Max. The first one had never looked completely healthy. There were always a few branches that did not have any leaves, were in fact dead, and over two years this showed no improvement. It was very upsetting for us that Max's memorial was a damaged tree, and we told the Queen's Park managers that we would like to buy a new one.
The park managers were very sympathetic and helpful. They offered to buy the new tree, and arranged for two park keepers to drive us to a tree nursery where a specialist looked at trees with us and advised on the choice. The park then organised the transport of the tree to Queen's Park and on 3 December the tree was planted, with a few of us looking on.
The New tree is a Maple Autumn Blaze - the foliage goes a bright red in the autumn. So far it seems to be thriving and is now in leaf.
Some pictures of the tree being planted.
Victoria
The park managers were very sympathetic and helpful. They offered to buy the new tree, and arranged for two park keepers to drive us to a tree nursery where a specialist looked at trees with us and advised on the choice. The park then organised the transport of the tree to Queen's Park and on 3 December the tree was planted, with a few of us looking on.
The New tree is a Maple Autumn Blaze - the foliage goes a bright red in the autumn. So far it seems to be thriving and is now in leaf.
Some pictures of the tree being planted.
Victoria
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