NORWICH – The first-ever Chenango County Pigskin Classic 7-on-7 Youth Football Tournament will kick-off on August 5 at Galena Park in North Norwich, and organizers are hoping to sign-up another 11 teams for the event.

According to Tournament Director Steve Franklin, nine teams have already registered for the tournament, a passing-only, touch football competition that is open to all kids ages 13 to 18.

“It’s basically back yard football,” said Franklin. “It’s like what we did as kids, call up everyone from the neighborhood, pick up teams and go throw the ball around.”

The tournament will be split into junior and senior divisions, 13 to 15 and 18 and under.

In November, Franklin – along with fellow Tournament Director Ed Holmquist, Jack Roque and Mike Marango – formed the non-profit organization Pride of the Paw, in preparation for what they hope will become an annual sporting tradition in Chenango County. Franklin said it’s important for people to realize that the tournament is in no way associated with a specific school football program and is open to all who are interested.