Eaton & Cringleford

High fives at smash-hit tournament

Just Regional

Aug 23, 2024 3 mins read

Cringleford FC’s giant international youth football tournament has been declared a winner and looks odds-on for an action replay next year.

“Feedback has been incredible with most coaches saying it was the best tournament they’ve ever been to,” said event head organiser Chris Good of the host club.

“There were so many great moments. Cringleford had some success too, with the U8s winning Saturday overall, and the 12s winning the Sunday tier 2 tournament.”

The two-day five-a-side extravaganza for 7 to 13 year olds, attracted 96 teams to Easton College, with 800 youngsters watched by an estimated 3000 spectators.

GREAT SUPPORT: Over 800 young players took part in the two-day Cringleford Cup tournament.

“Darren Huckerby, the Lord Mayor and chair of South Norfolk Council were all in attendance. It was an amazing weekend of football. There’s huge demand to run it again next year,” said Chris.

The teams included representation from from Norwich’s twin City, Rouen (France) and the Middle East, plus teams from across the UK from Liverpool to Brighton.
“At first sight, it may feel like it’s ‘just football’. But it’s more than that,” reflected Chris. “Hotly-contested battles on the pitch, to be met with an offer of a hand to help their opponent back to their feet.

VIVE LA FRANCE: The Amber’s Army charity was the winner as Rouen coaches beat their Cringleford counterparts 5-4 in a thrilling encounter on the eve of the youth tournament.

“Winning at a penalty shoot-out, and your first reaction is to console the opposition player who missed the final pen instead of celebrating with your own team. “The encouragement from the coaches to our young referees. The encouragement from the referees to the young players. Laughter shared between them. The friendships formed amongst rivalries. Kindness. Positivity. Memories. Thank you to all.”