Success for Smiledeep soccer

The Smiledeep gang of organizers held a very successful fundraising 4v4 soccer tournament Saturday to benefit Islander Paul Hayward. Paul has been battling stage four cancer for many years and the Smiledeep gang raised approximately $7,000 to help pay for much needed medical assistance.

As for Smiledeep, Hayward said, “It is when someone smiles at you. It is when something reminds you of something and makes you smile. It is the happiness deep within you that brings a smile to your face. It is a state of mind. Smiledeep.”

Hayward has been a positive influence to children and adults not only with soccer, but in life. His positive disposition, despite having extensive stage four cancer for many years, has been an inspiration to everyone he meets.

The Smiledeep 4v4 soccer tournament had 101 total players in two divisions. Fifty-four kids participated and 47 adults. A crowd of over 200 spent most of Saturday talking to Hayward, watching or playing soccer, listening to the tunes of D.J Chris Grumley, eating, socializing and supporting a good cause.

Despite Hawyard’s energy levels being extremely low since his last surgery and the beginning of his latest round of chemotherapy, he stayed the majority of the day to talk and smile with everyone who showed up to support the event.

The Smiledeep gang would like to thank everyone who support this event including, but not limited to: AMI Donuts, Anna Maria Island Community Center, Anna Maria Realty/ Dina Franklin, Darrin Wash & Wash Family Construction, Don Meilner and Son Construction, DJ Chris Grumley, Fran Maxon Real Estate, Galagan-Rodriguez family, Gulf Bay Realty, Hicks Family - Moores restaurant, Island Dental Spa, Island Pest and Termite Control, Kapi Whitfield/ JKImprints & ThirtyOne, KelleyB. Art, Michael Saunders & Co., Mike & Kelly Smith/ Celebvidy, Pink & Navy, Sarasota YMCA waterpark, Slims Place, Steam Designs, Stir It Up, Valadie family, Will and Beth Case/ Concessions, Zink family: Cortez Deep Sea Fishing Charters.

All net proceeds from The “Smile Deep” soccer tournament benefit the Joe Doiron in trust – A Helping Hand for Hayward Fund. All sponsorships, donations and entry fees went to this fund and are managed by the Hayward family to help pay medical bills. This trust has provided Hayward with financial assistance since 2011.

If you would like to learn more about Hayward and donate to the trust, go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/613172152109623/permalink/613642875395884/