Last Saturday, 29th March 2014, we witnessed GB United take to the field for a second time. Although on this occasion, taking part in an 8-team amateur tournament, held at Vác FC stadium for the inauguration of our brand new 4G AstroTurf pitch in association with the new official charity partner of Vác FC – The Smiling Hospital Foundation. For the grand opening we were fortunate to have present: Mayor Attila Fördős, Deputy Mayor Tibor Pető, Parliamentarian Péter Harrach and of our very own Ambassador Jonathon Knott. 
But after the formalities came a day full of goodwill, friendship, football and fair play. The wonderful thing about football is that everyone on the field is equal. This unique sport brings people together from all walks of life and allows everyone to have fun.
The winners of the tournament were Trigo Kft, a global company with local presence in Vác. In fact, the event was also organised to thank the local Vác companies for their prolonged support of Vác FC and our VLSE Academy through sponsorship or tax relief initiatives. It also gave the opportunity to the expat community through the British Embassy and GB United to show how we are connected on so many levels: friendship, football and business. GB United narrowly lost their first 2 matches and drew the last which put us into the 5th/6th place play off. Although we lost our final game 4-1, our only goal was from the penalty spot, scored by the one and only, Ambassador Jonathon Knott. 
On a personal note, it was an emotional day for me. As Owner of Vác FC, Coach of GB United, a businessman and a British National, it was a proud moment for a number of reasons. It was an honour and a privilege to help organise an event that represented this many causes so close to my heart. Yes, Business is GREAT but life is short and days like Saturday make you realize what else is important: fellowship, happiness & humility.
A big thank you to all those who made the day possible, in particular, MaltaCourt Global Logistics, for sponsoring GB United and supplying our kits. In addition, thanks to Zollner Kft, Trigo Kft, Duna-Dráva Cement Kft, NBH Security, Pest MLSZ, Hungarian Football Journalists and the Vác FC Old Boys for taking part.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the British government.