Supervisor Rich Guardino and the Town of Hempstead invite youngsters from 6 to 12 to compete in a mini tournament and a skills challenge during the "2001 Rockin' Soccer Festival" at Speno Park, East Meadow Avenue, East Meadow, on Saturday, July 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored by "Stop & Shop," the Soccer Festival is touring the Northeast to promote the popularity of youth soccer.

"With many of our parks serving as home fields for youth soccer programs throughout the township, we welcome the opportunity to host the Rockin' Soccer Festival at Speno Park," said Guardino. "With a group of friends or all by themselves, youngsters will enjoy a fun-filled day of soccer excitement."

The Rockin' Soccer team tournament will be played within inflatable mini-fields, complete with side and end boards and small goals. Games will feature a six on six competition without goalies and teams will be allowed two substitute players. Each team will play three games, consisting of two 10-minute halfs.

Teams will compete in one of three age categories, 8 and under, 10 and under, 12 and under. There is a $20 entry fee per team. Team applications are available at any "Stop & Shop" location, by calling the Rockin' Soccer hotline at (617) 587-3191 or by accessing the event's website at www.wolfassociates.com/rockinsoccer.htm. Applications may be entered on the day of the event if there are still openings in the requested age category.

The skills challenge is open to all youngsters and there is no pre-registration required. The competition is presented free of charge and will offer an exciting test of a player's dribbling, passing and shooting skills. The skills contest will run continuously from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Inter-active games, prize give-aways and visits from professional players will contribute to an ultimate soccer experience. There will also be a concession stand selling food and drink throughout the event. The East Meadow Soccer Club is the host youth organization and the group has made event and application information available on a website entitled backofthenet.com.

"The Town of Hempstead is proud to lend its enthusiastic support to this exciting celebration of youth soccer," said Councilman Gary Hudes. "We encourage our young soccer players from East Meadow and neighboring communities to enjoy the day-long festivities."

For additional event information contact either the East Meadow Soccer Club at 539-0181 or the Town of Hempstead Parks Department at 292-9000, ext. 244. For day of the event information call Speno Park at 481-4420.