$100,000 MVP award to honour Neville “Zipper” Johnson

The most outstanding player at the returning Kashif and Shanghai Football Tournament will receive $100,000 and a trophy through a new annual award honouring former Guyana footballer Neville “Zipper” Johnson.

Sponsored by Johnson’s children, the Neville “Zipper” Johnson Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award will recognise individual excellence while celebrating their father’s contribution to football in Linden and Guyana.
His daughter, Trea Johnson, handed over the $100,000 to Aubrey “Shanghai” Major of the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation on Thursday, October 22, marking the introduction of the award.
The family said the initiative was intended to recognise Johnson’s achievements during his lifetime and help younger generations learn about his playing career.
“My father gave so much of himself to football. His talent, passion and dedication to the game are things we have always been immensely proud of as his children,” Trea Johnson said.
“We believe it is important to celebrate those who have contributed significantly to our communities, not only after they are gone, but while they are still here with us.”
Johnson represented Guyana at the national level and earned admiration for his skill, passion and dedication. His performances remain fondly remembered within the football community, particularly in Linden.
His daughter said the award would connect that history with the ambitions of today’s players.
“There is an entire generation that witnessed my father’s brilliance on the football field, but there is also a younger generation that may never have had that opportunity,” she said.
“Through this award, we want them to know who Neville ‘Zipper’ Johnson is and the legacy he created. At the same time, we hope to inspire and reward excellence among today’s footballers.”
The introduction of the award coincides with the return of the Kashif and Shanghai Football Tournament, which has provided a platform for football talent and helped build community pride, especially in Linden.
The annual prize will carry Johnson’s name forward while rewarding the player judged the tournament’s best.