Appleby Spurling Hunter have renewed their partnership with Bermuda Football Association (BFA) to the tune of $35,000.

The local law firm have been title sponsors for the association?s Youth Development Programme for the past three years and have so far invested a total of $135,000 in sponsorship.

?We are committed to supporting youth football in Bermuda and hope that our contribution will have a significant impact not only on the athletes but in the community as a whole,? stated Peter Bubenzer, Managing Partner of Appleby Spurling Hunter in a written Press release.

?Our desire is that Bermuda?s young players will continue to advance physically and academically, enabling them to reach the highest possible levels in football and to maximise the opportunities for their own careers.?

Bubenzer also commended the BFA?s youth committee, headed up by Western Stars Sports Club president Cal Blankendal.

?We are pleased to continue our partnership with Appleby who has provided invaluable support from both a financial and a hands-on perspective. Every year they remain committed to Bermuda?s youth and their development. With their support we can positively move forward and develop the program as needed,? Blankendal stated.

Meanwh ile, phase one of the 2005-06 youth football season kicks off with the Kids pre-Season Tournament at the National Sports Centre this Saturday.

The tournament consists of nearly 300 players in the Under seven, Under nine and Under 11 age divisions.

The BFA?s Under 13, Under 15 and Under 18 pre-Season Tournament will takes place on Saturday, October 15 at the Sports Centre.

Blankendal also unveiled an ambitious new initiative for the upcoming season.

?This year?s games will see the introduction of the Appleby Sports Writers,? he revealed. ?The BFA has invited several CedarBridge students interested in journalism to write weekly commentary of youth games and provide stats for , Bermuda Sun and Island Stats.com.?

Blankendal said the new initiative will provide ?key opportunities? for students to get a genuine feel for local journalism while gaining valuable experience.

Title sponsors Appleby will provide students with stationary items such as pens and notepads, the BFA executive added.

Bermuda Football Association will be holding their Annual General Meeting tonight at Police Club, beginning at 6.30 p.m.

All affiliate members are urged to attend.