2002 Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield NHSA U10 Festival
The 2002 Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of NH U10 Festival was held on October 19 at the Rock Rimmon Sports Complex in Manchester. The festival, in its 5th year, saw 50 recreation teams participate from Manchester (North, South, East, West), Salem, Suncook, Newmarket, Londonderry, Epping and Derry. Over 1500 players, coaches, parents and volunteers spent a chilly fall day having a great time and enjoying the opportunity to play against teams from around the state.

Anthem has sponsored this event since its inception and is a major sponsor of NHSA. The official state camp provider, Challenger Sports, provided the coaches for the free clinics all day. Boy Scout Troop 290, St. Pius X provided the meals and refreshments. Anthem also provided the parking services, courtesy of Mr. Clark Dumont and his family, the tent, soccer balls, and other items to help with the festival.

The Anthem U10 Festival is a day long event filled with fun, soccer and clinics. It is open to all member recreation organizations. The festival emphasizes NHSA policy of non-results oriented match play for U10 and below age groups. Regular season recreation U10 teams play three short matches against different member teams. No scores or results are recorded. The registration fee includes the three matches, USSF c ertified referees, free clinics, lunch for the players and coaches, and a memento of the event. The NHSA Recreation Division organizes the festival and the Manchester United Soccer Club assists with fields support. NHSA is a partner in Anthem’s Healthy Communities Program that emphasizes an active healthy lifestyle.

Next year’s festival will be held at the same location on October 18. Registration forms are available from the state office and on this web site. Due to its immense growing popularity, teams are encouraged to register now to ensure a spot in next year’s event. For further information, contact the State Administer, 626-9686.