The Red Stripe Oval came alive under the lights as whistles blew, chants echoed, and corporate pride took centre stage at the kickoff of the Champions League Football & Netball Tournament.

From the first whistle, it was clear this was no ordinary after-work scrimmage. Six companies—Red Stripe, Celebration Brands, Excelsior, Massy Distributors, Spectrum Solutions, and Flow—fielded teams in a clash that is expected to showcase grit, flair, and plenty of friendly rivalry over the weeks ahead.

The headline fixture saw Celebration Brands square off against Massy Distributors. Hard tackles, sharp passing, and relentless hustle defined the match, with both sides refusing to give an inch.

On the sidelines, company chants and colourful banners created a carnival-like atmosphere, proving that this league is as much about spirit as it is about scorelines.

Though the netball action is still to come, anticipation is already buzzing. Teams from Red Stripe, Flow, Excelsior, and Celebration Brands are set to bring just as much energy to the court as their football squads showed on the pitch.

Celebration Brands walked away with bragging rights for “Best Team Branding,” while Flow’s supporters raised the roof to capture “Best Spirit.” But the night’s biggest takeaway was Red Stripe’s broader vision: sport as a catalyst for culture, wellness, and connection.

“The Champions League Football & Netball Tournament gives employees a chance to connect outside the office, showcase teamwork, and celebrate wellness and fun. This is culture-building in action,” said Judon Bowden, Head of People & Culture at Red Stripe and organiser of the series.

For players and fans alike, the evening proved the tournament’s value goes far beyond medals, highlighting pride, spirit, and camaraderie.

“Seeing the passion from the players and the support from their colleagues really reinforces why this tournament matters,” said Ricardo Cassanova, Jnr, Channel Development Manager at Red Stripe. “It builds relationships, boosts morale, and gives us all something to rally around.”

The tournament has only just kicked off, and the action is heating up. Over the coming weeks, expect football fixtures stacked with rivalries and netball clashes that promise just as much fire. With most companies fielding two football squads and a netball side, bragging rights are wide open.

All eyes are on Red Stripe’s next outing, as they look to make a statement on home turf. Celebration Brands, fresh off their strong start, will be eager to keep momentum, while Flow’s spirited supporters are already setting the bar high on the sidelines. Excelsior and Spectrum Solutions, meanwhile, are itching to turn energy into points on the board.

The stage is set, tackles will fly, nets will ripple, and corporate pride will be tested. If opening night was the spark, the weeks ahead promise to be the full blaze.