Heart health takes centre field at Kick 4 Ur Heart Tournament 

The fifth annual Kick 4 Ur Heart Tournament transformed the Ballaz Liberty Park Academy grounds last weekend into a powerful convergence of athletic excellence and life-saving awareness, as young footballers competed while championing awareness about heart health.

Ballaz Academy Director Andre Virtue founded the tournament following two devastating personal losses: his father, Patrick Virtue, who died of a heart attack in 2011, and student-athlete Dominic James, who tragically collapsed and died during a Manning Cup match in 2016.

"Those experiences really hit home, and I wouldn't want another athlete to die during the game," Virtue reflected. "It made me realise that although we love the game, we need to bring awareness to the health risks we sometimes take for granted."

These tragedies sparked a mission that extends far beyond football. The tournament raises funds for cardiac screenings, supports coaches with heart-related medical expenses, and educates athletes about sudden cardiac arrest prevention. "Every time we kick the ball, we do it because our heart is in it — and we know it's making a difference in people's lives," Virtue explained. "No athlete should ever lose their life to sudden cardiac arrest when education and screening can prevent it."

This year’s tournament gained momentum with Gatorade’s partnership, which included hydration support for all athletes in addition to sponsorship.

Stephan Bennett, brand coordinator at Gatorade Jamaica, highlighted the brand's commitment to grassroots development: "Gatorade is proud to support initiatives like Kick 4 Ur Heart because this is where champions are born — at the community level. We're investing in the future of sport by supporting young athletes, ensuring proper hydration, and creating environments where they can perform at their peak."

The partnership delivered tangible value through free hydration stations, performance support, and enhanced athlete experience throughout the competition. "Having Gatorade align with us represents a huge step forward," Virtue noted. "We didn't just want a sponsor — we sought a partner that truly understands youth development and our vision for the future."

The tournament successfully balanced competitive excellence with its core mission, providing young footballers with crucial exposure while advancing heart health awareness throughout the community.

goodheart@gleanerjm.com

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Kick4UrHear08052026C00001: Ballaz Academy Director Andre Virtue. 

Kick4UrHear08052026C00002: From left: Stephan Bennett, brand coordinator at Gatorade Jamaica; Andre Virtue, founder and director of Ballaz Academy; Magnolia Vanegas, marketing manager at Pepsi-Cola Jamaica; and members of Royal Strikers FC share a photo opportunity at the Kick 4 UR Heart Tournament held at Ballaz Academy last weekend.