Blackpool FC Community Trust column: U11 tournament shows the growth of girls' football
Last week saw Blackpool FC Community Trust, supported by our Blackpool FC Sports College Students, proudly deliver our annual Premier League Under-11s girls’ football tournament at Stanley Park.
The event welcomed 19 local schools, with a total of 20 teams competing throughout the day; highlighting the continued growth and enthusiasm for girls’ football across the Fylde coast.
The tournament was a huge success from start to finish, creating a vibrant and positive atmosphere that celebrated participation, teamwork and sporting excellence.
The standard of football on display was extremely high, with players demonstrating the Premier League values throughout the competition.
It provided a fantastic visual showcase of the outstanding female footballing talent within our local community, with many players impressing our Girls Emerging Talent Centre (ETC) lead, who observed the local players taking part.
Following an exciting group stage, teams progressed into the knockout rounds where competition intensified as places in the latter stages were up for grabs.
Armfield Academy, St John Vianney, Sacred Heart and Anchorsholme emerged as the strongest teams, earning their places in the semi-finals after a series of competitive and hard-fought matches.
Both semi-final fixtures were closely contested, with fine margins separating the teams as they battled for a place in the final.
The final saw Armfield Academy take on St John Vianney in a tense and thrilling encounter.
Both teams displayed excellent organisation and determination, making it a nailbiting contest for players and spectators alike.
After a closely-fought match, St John Vianney secured a narrow 1-0 victory to be crowned champions and earn them the trophy.
The event was a testament to the continued success of grassroots girls’ football in the region.
It would not have been possible without the support of participating schools, BFCCT staff and our Blackpool FC Sports College students, whose contribution helped ensure the tournament ran smoothly and professionally.
Marc Joseph, BFCCT’s Head of Early Years & Primary, added: “Our Girls PL U11 tournament has once again proven to be a hugely successful event, shining a spotlight on the fantastic female football talent within our local area.
“It was pleasing to see so many girls who have been part of our Girls Emerging Talent Centre and Development groups.
“Having been fortunate enough to run this event for several years, it’s clear to see just how much the standard of football continues to rise each year.
“Our Premier League Primary Stars team did a brilliant job in engaging so many schools and with the support of our Sports College students, the tournament was delivered in a fun, fair and competitive environment.
“A huge congratulations to our eventual winners, St John Vianney, who will now go on to represent their school and Blackpool FC in the regional rounds.”