Champions Tournament Inspires Lancashire Youths
On Wednesday 16th July, Accrington Stanley Sports Hub once again had the pleasure of hosting the annual Champions Football Tournament. Eight community trusts from across Lancashire were invited to the Sports Hub to take part in the day.
Teams representing Accrington, AFC Fylde, Blackburn, Blackpool Burnley, Morecambe, Preston and Wigan took part in a seven match round robin which saw Blackpool, Wigan, Accrington and Blackburn progress to the semi-finals. A dominant Blackpool side secured the trophy following a 1-0 victory over Wigan after also topping the table during the group stages. Blackpool also took home the trophy for Player of the tournament, whilst Burnley took home the Sportsmanship award, as voted for by the referees.
The event was held to celebrate the achievements of young people across Lancashire who are currently enrolled on or have recently completed their Champions programme. Champions is a mentoring scheme for 10-25 year olds with a focus on the prevention and reduction of offending behaviour. Backed by the Lancashire Violence Reduction Network, the programme is currently in it’s sixth year and has helped young people across Lancashire make positive changes to their lifestyles.
The day once again proved to be a success with one participant stating “I played last year and have been looking forward to this day since we got knocked out last year. I wish we could do this more than once a year.” Accrington’s Champions mentor and tournament organiser, Millie Hall, also spoke highly of the day. “I’m so pleased that the day has ran smoothly yet again and all of the Champions clients have enjoyed themselves. I love this day as it gives young people who are often overlooked a chance to shine. Each of the participants should be so proud of their achievements which have got them to this point.”
To find out more about the Champions programme and the work our mentors do, please contact one of our Champions mentors via email.
Millie Hall millie.hall@teamchampions.co.uk
Kathryn Hoyle kathryn.hoyle@teamchampions.co.uk
