Needham Bank is once again sponsoring the 6th Annual Needham Bank Boys Soccer Tournament.

The Needham Bank Boys Soccer Tournament, hosted by the Dedham High School Boys Soccer Program, provides pre-season action for local boys’ high school soccer programs. Participating this year, along with Dedham High School, are Westwood High School, Norwood High School and Innovation Academy Charter School.

The first round of the Needham Bank Boys Soccer Tournament was held on Sept. 17 at Russcraft Field in Dedham. Consolation and championship games will be played on Oct. 1 at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., respectively. Both games are slated at the new Dedham High School Veteran’s Field at Stone Park.

The tournament assists in preparing participating teams for the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) season.

The bank supports the entire Needham Bank Boys Soccer Tournament; its sponsorship provides complete funding for the event from compensating referees to purchasing player awards and tournament trophies.

"Needham Bank’s generosity throughout these past six years has been incredible," said Paul Podolski, varsity coach of the Dedham High School soccer program. "We’re beyond grateful to Needham Bank for funding an event that seems to attract larger crowds each and every year."

"We’re delighted to again sponsor this tournament," said Mark Whalen, chief operating officer of Needham Bank and a Dedham resident. "It’s a program that means so much not only to these fine young athletes, but also to their proud community."