Hundreds benefit from Dominic's festival legacy

The memory of a young Clifton footballer who died from a rare heart condition lived on as hundreds turned out to a special fund-raising event at the weekend. 

Soccer enthusiasts sported friendly rivalry at the ninth Dominic O’Loughlin Anniversary Six-a-Side Soccer Festival, at Brighouse High School on Saturday. 

More than 800 players from across Calderdale formed about 100 teams to raise money for CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young). 

The event was held in memory of 11-year-old Dominic who died from a heart condition in 1994. 

He was captain of the Under 11’s team for Clifton Rangers, who organise the annual event.  His parents, Barry and Fiona, teamed up with the club after his death. 

Dominic was taking part in a cross country run soon after joining Crossley Heath School, Halifax, when he collapsed and died. 

The former pupil of Lightcliffe Preparatory School, was a keen cricket and football fan and represented Huddersfield at under-10 level. 

Early indications show between £3,000 to £4,000 has been raised.  The money will be used by the charity to screen young athletes so that the condition can be detected.  Sufferers are born with an enlarged heart which pumps blood inefficiently. 

Terry Gill, organiser of the event and Chairman of Clifton Rangers Football Club, said: “It was a good, fun day which is always well supported.  Dominic used to play for us and his father is still involved with the club so we have a lot of support for the event.” 

All the winners and runners up received medals and the winning teams were presented with shields.