By Jake Courtepatte

The tradition of friendly international competition lives on at the Aurora Soccer Club clubhouse, raising money on Saturday to support local charity for the thirtieth straight year.

The club's annual Charity Soccer Day kicked off under some friendly skies with a match featuring those of Scottish ancestry versus the English, while revelers raised funds for the Aurora and Newmarket Special Olympics, to provide sporting opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities.

“It's an absolutely fantastic charity,” said Carrie McLucas, the general manager of the Aurora Soccer Club. “(They) work tirelessly providing physical, social and psychological development of people with intellectual disabilities through positive, successful experiences in sport.”

The Scottish side got the best of the English side in this year's rendition, winning by a large margin of 6 – 1. Also featured was a “Rest of the World vs. Rest of the World” match, showcasing those not from the two soccer powerhouse sides, while the Special Olympic athletes themselves joined in the competition for their own mini match.

Some local musical flavour was provided by John Tanner, along with a wide assortment of entertainment to make it a full day affair for the large gathered crowd.

“There was an amazing British food truck serving delicious British ‘pub' style food, games, face-painting and glitter tattoos for the kids, and (club sponsor) Sports Clips doing coloured hairspray for whoever wanted it,” said McLucas. “And, of course, a visit from Sporty, the huge inflatable Sports Clips referee!

“The singing and socializing continued well into the evening!”

The total amount raised for charity is yet to be confirmed.