Newtowne Youths Football Club, Limavady

Despite being the squad’s first time playing together, NYFC’s U8s team won the main cup competition for their age group at the NI ENG Football Events Regional qualifiers in Belfast in December 2023 – which took them through to the UK National Finals at Chelsea FC’s Cobham training ground in London in June 2024.  Recognising such a great accomplishment for the young side from Limavady – with an opportunity to represent their country further afield and experience playing at a Premier League training ground against teams from all over the UK, the Committee agreed an Irish Society grant of £1,000 towards costs associated with the trip.  We later learned more about the “experience of a lifetime for these 6 and 7 year olds – one they will learn, develop from and remember for a long time.  Not to mention the fun had and friendships made on the trip.  Top quality teams from all over the UK and Ireland competing, our boys and girl gave their all and never gave up from start to finish in each of their five games, playing some super football along the way.  On Sunday morning before setting off for home, the team were at the QPR Super Dome for a great competitive full length game, where the wee side took it up a level and came out 5-4 winners”.  The Club also expressed their “Thanks to everyone that made it happen, and in particular your sponsorship, without which this wouldn’t have been possible.  Your support has been greatly appreciated”.